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Custom Computerized Gaging

Standard Inspection Unit

   Introduction paragraph to go here.




   Custom gage programming can present the data collected by the inspection unit in a variety of ways, dials, meters, or columns.   A common operator interface is a depiction of the part with dimensioning that is consistent with the process sheet for that operation.  Dimensions are then filled in with an actual size or deviation from nominal that is color coded based on precontrol limits
Typical Part Presentation Screen
Typical Part Presentation Screen
( more examples )
  Custom gage programming allows dimensions to appear as the operator applies gage components onto the part.  When the inspection unit is part of a gage bench inspection with multiple gages, the data for the each gage being used can be displayed independently.

   Collected data can be saved and uploaded to an in-house SPC program or charted live for factory floor use.  Custom gage programming can aid in SPC data collection by filling check sheets to ensure all inspections are being performed.  When the manufacturing process consists of multiple fixtures or spindles, the inspection unit can display optimum offsets and adjustments for centering the process.

   Another benefit of custom programming is communicating with paint markers, pin stamps, or lasers to place an indication on the part that an inspection was performed.  When the inspection unit is part of an automated cell, custom gage programming can send signals for sorting and rejecting parts as they are inspected.
   The standard inspection unit is compatible with a wide variety of industry LVDT transducers (eg. Marposs, Solatron, Schaevitz, and Etamic).  Air columns can be connected to a standard inspection unit using either the analog output or the digital output of the column.  The standard inspection unit is not limited to using only LVDTs, any sensor that produces an analog output may be connected to the inspection unit provided the signal is scalable, such as laser ribbons, pressure gages, and strain gages.  Digital probes can be used with the inspection unit and programmed similiar to analog probes when the protocol for the digital probe is provided. probes
Inside of Standard Inspection Unit    A standard inspection unit consists of an Industrial Touch Screen Panel PC mounted in an enclosure made from a NEMA-4 electrical cabinet.  The LVDT signal conditioners, I/O support electronics, and auxiliary power supply are mounted on a removable back plate.  The LVDT transducer connectors are on interchangeable side plates, allowing 32 LVDT transducers to be used simultaneously.  Up to 64 LVDT transducers can be accommodated with an optional modification of the enclosure.
   The standard LVDT connector is a threaded 5-pin female circular DIN connector (eg. E4N style).  The interchangeable connector plates permit installing the unit in existing setups without replacing the current probes.  The connector plates allow changing connector styles or adding more probe connections to an existing system.  The plates allow 16 connections each, and one plate can be mounted to each side of a standard inspection unit.   An optional modification of the enclosure is required when the gaging system uses more than 32 LVDT transducers.

Interchangeable Connector Plate
Interchangeable Connectors

Optional Tower Light
Tower Light

   The auxiliary power supply (24V) for the LVDT signal conditioner is sized to provide power for discrete I/O components such as proximity switches, limit switches, solenoids, and signal lights.   Hardwire communication to robot controls and PLCs is available when the inspection unit is a component in an automated cell.  A common I/O option is a four color ( red, yellow, green, and blue ) tower light.   The tower light provides a quick visual status of the current inspection or it can signal the status of the current operation of an automated manufacturing cell.

   The standard inspection unit is 20 inches wide, 16 inches tall, 9 inches deep, and weighs approximately 55 pounds.  Two fixed handles are attached to the top of the unit to facilitate easy portability.  Four rubber pad feet are attached to the bottom of the unit for free standing bench top usage.  An inspection unit can be wall mounted by attaching four optional brackets.  The optional brackets also allow mounting an inspection unit on the outside of a wire-mesh cage when the inspection gage fixture is robot loaded or part of a pick-and-place system. 

Optional Bracket (4)
Mounting Bracket

External Snap on Filter
External Filter

   An exhaust fan and a replaceable external filter are mounted on the sides of the inspection unit allowing easy preventative maintenance.  The gage program includes a routine to assist in cleaning the touch screen monitor.  A 12 foot power cord eliminates usage of an extension cord in most environments.

Phone:
269-579-1953

For more information or quote request, please contact
   EMAIL   

Marshall
MI 49068