Need to measure
thickness without a firm reference...
... or measure "on the fly" during a feed?
The Signature
Technologies SA-2000
“SAM” module, and Signature
Technologies “SamView™” Software
package can be used to perform cyclic measurement of the dimensions of
specific features on manufactured parts without a reference thus simplifying
die design.
The illustrated method can of the machine so the formed
component can be verified as having the proper thickness.
The
system works by probing both sides of a work piece with a spring loaded
"telegraph plunger" which presents a target to an Analog Proximity
sensor (linear Proximity). The SAM™
module captures the analog information from both, and performs a measurement,
which gives the thickness of the selected area of the work piece.
The Precision of the measurement is ensured by
"decoupling" the measurement from the slide motion (which isn't very
accurate). The Linear proximity in the bottom die section provides an
indication of the position of the bottom of the work piece that ensures
against any lack of flatness in the work piece compromising the measurement.
The
"Virtual Channel" feature of SamView™
makes the differential measurement possible.
The "Telegraph Plunger" Isolates the linear Prox
from material composition variations and magnetic history which could
compromise the accuracy of the measurement.
The measurement can either be calibrated, or comparative
depending on the application. Calibrated
measurements will give the divergence from nominal thickness of the incoming
material at the testing point, OR direct dimensional information.
Signature
Technologies
can supply a wide variety of solutions to various manufacturing process
problems dealing with measurement, verification of properties, tool condition,
and machine health.
For a .pdf file copy of this bulletin please click here.
