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3D Inspection Profiling for Parts Measurement
Offering a new 3D profiling capability to inspection measurement, the IK 5000 Quadra-Chek PC software system now gives operators the ability to quickly measure and determine parts profiles within desired tolerance zones. This optional 3D feature compares the actual measured part to a three-dimensional model within the PC software, making inspection easier, especially on coordinate measuring machines (CMMs).

To utilize the 3D profiling, the operator first imports a computer-generated 3D model using IGES or STEP formats and then takes measurement points on the desired part. This new function fits and compares the two within the IK5000, and then both the overall profile and the individual point results can be toleranced, printed, and/or exported for evaluation. The measurement and evaluation routines of 3D contours using the IK 5000 simplify inspection on CMMs and multisensory measurement inspection machines. These part programs can then be used to take measurements of subsequent parts either manually or in an automated measuring process, depending on the machine design.

Other functions of the 3D profiling option include the ability to orient and align the model in all possible degrees of freedom, as well as to apply profile tolerances for any of the lines and surfaces either as an overall tolerance or specific to individual features or surfaces.
 

Heidenhain Corp.
Schaumburg, Ill.
www.heidenhain.us

High Penetration-Rate Drilling
The GEN3SYS XT is an extension of engineering efforts to address the needs of customers requiring faster hole-making. The new product offers increased tool life, reliability, and productivity in high penetration-rate drilling applications. Available with the company’s AM300 coating and in multiple geometries, the tool provides enhanced chip control, improved durability, and added stability in a range of applications from 11mm to 35mm. It is available for standard GEN3SYS holders (stub, 3xD, 5xD, and 7xD) with a choice of flute styles, and it utilizes corner and cutting edge enhancements to deliver increased hole quality, surface finish, and true position.
 

Allied Machine & Engineering Corp.
Dover, Ohio
www.alliedmachine.com

Part Marking with Secure Traceability
A new solution that combines high-quality part marking and secure radio frequency identification (RFID) is being offered by Gravotech Group and Oridao. The merging of marking and secure RFID technologies allows the user to identify and trace parts securely throughout their life cycle, and the product is suited for sensitive maintenance processes in the aeronautics sector.

Providing secure and dynamic controls known as Augmented Traceability, the system makes possible both marking on the identification plate and direct laser, scribed, or micro-percussion part-marking, with the RFID chip either embedded in the plate or applied directly onto the part.

The design is based on a secure RFID anti-counterfeiting and life cycle tracking system developed by Oridao in which data stored on the tag – such as part production, supply chain path, and maintenance while in service – is digitally signed by the tag itself, preventing any corruption or modification.

The RFID system features a published cryptographic protocol, which has been validated by independent academic and institutional third parties. The tags are unclonable and fully compatible and interoperable with the Electronic Product Code (EPC) UHF Gen2 standard.

As an option, the part lifecycle authentication can be performed online by any user, through a trusted authority web service.

Augmented Traceability enables automatic and secured collection of data that simplifies the tracking and management of assets and equipment, on-line or off-line, according to the manufacturers.

All aspects of the Augmented Traceability solution can be integrated within customer processes, including design, manufacturing, and supply of RFID integrated circuits, as well as hardened tags, RFID readers, marking consumables and marking stations, consulting, and system integration.
 

Technifor Inc.
Charlotte, N.C.
www.technifor.us