The main purpose of using a good 3D metrology software solution is to overcome complex measurement challenges and develop highly reliable quality control inspection processes.
However, some manufacturing companies typically purchase 3D measurement devices before buying compatible software. This can result in the use of various software applications for different measurement functions, raising the risk of generating inconsistent, or erroneous measurement data.
Recent technological advancements have paved the way for a new generation of 3D metrology software that eliminates the need for manufacturers to use multiple software solutions or recreate the same program on different software that is used with different measuring devices.
This article will cover the main factors to consider when choosing the right 3D metrology software.
Resolving limitations
It is not uncommon to experience limitations with existing 3D metrology software applications. These limitations can include:
- having compatibility issues with operating systems
- not updating regularly – and relevantly
- providing incorrect data analysis and misinterpreting results
- being incapable of working with large or complex CAD files
- not analysing geometric dimensions and tolerances (GD&T) properly
- having issues with designing and managing reports
- taking too much time to create programs
The right 3D metrology software solution can resolve these limitations, thereby improving production processes and outputs.
Universality
The metrological setup will vary between manufacturers and sectors, comprising a wide range of 3D measurement devices and machines from different brands.
Therefore, it is important that the chosen 3D metrology software solution is universal in nature, i.e. it can be used across multiple industries and devices, regardless of the brand. It should also be able to easily connect with other software applications used for sharing data, such as CAD modelling results. It should also be compatible with existing hardware controllers and native protocols.
Scalability
In terms of scalability, it is important that the 3D metrology software solution is:
- compatible with large and portable 3D measuring devices, laser trackers and mobile optical systems
- capable of controlling several devices to measure simultaneously with reference to all of the measurement results or bundles
- considerate of instrumental uncertainties and scale factors, such as temperature variations
- able to track and manage raw data correctly
Tolerances
Ideally, the 3D metrology software solution should be able to measure both basic and high tolerances. It should also be able to:
- guide users to the reference point and advise on the optimal position for the measuring device
- work across geometric and freeform objects and blades, with these programs included in the package, to make it accessible to non-experts and relieve the burden on metrology experts
- handle the most complex GD&T cases in less time while ensuring the correct evaluation methodology and results
- adhere to compliance requirements as set out by global standards, such as the International Organisation of Standardisation (ISO) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
Large data sets and point clouds
In the current era of Big Data, the global metrology industry is experiencing exponential growth in the use of large datasets, such as CAD files and point clouds.
The right 3D software solution should have enough memory to import and manipulate large CAD files and acquire large point clouds.
At a glance
The key factors to consider when choosing a 3D metrology software solution are:
- Does it work across geometric and freeform objects and blades, and are these programs included in the package?
- Is it easy to program for measuring freeform objects?
- Can it measure both basic and high tolerances?
- Can it create tailored programs for specific needs?
- Does it facilitate automatic report creation?
- Is it user-friendly for both metrology experts and non-experts?
- Can it demonstrate how the arm should be moved to measure large parts?
- Can it automatically detect obstacles in its trajectory and avoid them?
- Does it have the features that enable users to instruct a CMM, which then automatically relays the instructions to a robot, eliminating the need for an operator to program the robot?
Automated processes and devices
The increasing use of automated processes and devices is a major advancement in the 3D metrology industry. Therefore, it is only natural to expect that the 3D metrology software solution to perform advanced functions:
- showing users how to move the arm to measure large parts
- notifying users when something is in the trajectory and automatically avoiding it
- allowing users to instruct a CMM, which will then automatically relay instructions to a robot, eliminating the need for a manual programming. This significantly reduces complexity, enabling operators to easily use robots without being a robot expert.
Report generation
Automated reports that present the correct data analysis should be easily accessible to users.
The ideal 3D metrology software solution would have an built-in, customisable report editor with a simple, user-friendly interface and adaptable report templates. It should also have customisable output functions (such as a report assistant and status editor), and the ability to export reports in different file formats.
User interfaces and technical support
The right 3D metrology software solution will have an intuitive, logical and fully customisable user interface, enabling all 3D metrology professionals, regardless of their level of experience, to use it effectively.
Programs should be easy to create to meet specific requirements, and the software should be compatible with all types of machines and measurements.
Teh software should also be available in multiple languages to support manufacturers worldwide and it should have a dedicated technical support centre.
Accreditations
The right 3D software solution will have the appropriate accreditations from the relevant regulatory standards – such as the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), as well as bodies such as the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Using unaccredited or uncertified softwares increases the risk of consequential production errors, not to mention potential legal and reputational issues.
Ultimately, the right 3D metrology software solution will save manufacturers time and money thanks to its superior, standardised, accredited features.