How to share software programs between 3D measuring devices

In the world of manufacturing, bigger companies have different plants, partnerships, subcontractors and facilities through which relevant and necessary metrological data is shared with one another.

The purpose of this is mainly to avoid conducting repetitive measurements and duplicating efforts that could lead to potential measurement data conflicts, which can then be time-consuming and counterproductive.

Measurement data is usually transferred via CAD files and can be done via CMM-CNC devices as well as manual measuring devices, such as portable or 3D articulated arms. However, using automated 3D measuring devices is the preferred approach.

 Why is using the right 3D metrology software important?

 When companies have different 3D measuring devices, the need for a universal metrology software solution arises to enable customised programs to be shared across their particular range of devices – especially when measuring the same part.

The goal is to measure a part only once, then make the results accessible and usable in real time by all relevant parties.

For example, if a part is being measured by three different CMMs, the ideal metrology software will be able to facilitate the process and collate the measurement data results all at once – in real time – and deliver this to customers.

It’s worth bearing in mind that this works best when the measuring devices used are automated, such as from one CMM to another CMM. However, this can work when a combination of manual and automated devices is being used too, such as a manual device to a CNC. It’s just the program needs to be adapted and configured accordingly and this should be easier to do, because a lot of the information required should already be within the program itself.

The Key role of the QIF format

A major development is the adoption of the QIF format, an open standard that makes it possible to:

•  Describe, store, and exchange measurement data in a neutral and universal way.
• Ensure interoperability between different metrology software and devices.
• Facilitate traceability and automation of data flows, from the CAD model to the final report.
• Reduce the risk of conflicts by ensuring that all stakeholders work with validated and standardized data.

QIF is thus becoming a cornerstone for companies that want to align their teams, sites, and partners around a common language of quality.

The main benefits

By leveraging one software program containing measurement data across devices, the important benefits to be gained include:

• high accuracy, precision levels and consistency of results
• Productivity gains through the elimination of duplication.
• Reliable, non-conflicting data, accessible in real time.
• Extended compatibility, as modern software supports both native languages and DMIS, while integrating QIF.
• Customized reports tailored to the specific needs of each site or customer.
• defining reports as per the specific requirements of the measurement results that are intended to be derived by the plant.

 For instance, a technical center owned by an automotive sub-contractor, operators would use the software program to define the part, the important features that required measuring and indeed define the very measurement process for that specific part itself. When the program is defined, this would be sent to the different production plants which would then simply execute the program to measure the part.

Factors to consider

When investing in an appropriate 3D metrology software solution, it therefore becomes important to consider how efficiently this helps share programs across customers/companies, plants, partners and subcontractors.

It is worth checking:

• The software's ability to run a single program on multiple devices.
• The ability to collaborate between sites, partners, and subcontractors without data loss.
• Native integration of the QIF format for interoperability and traceability.
• Ease of training teams, regardless of their location.
• Flexibility to adapt programs to different types of machines.

When it comes to investing in a suitable 3D metrology software solution, it is important to consider the aforementioned factors whose answers indicate if the software solution can facilitate the sharing of programs across measuring devices and teams.