Introduction
In today’s manufacturing landscape, precision is more critical than ever. Especially in applications like Cardan shaft inspection, achieving high accuracy ensures quality, reliability, and safety. To address this, Qualitas Technologies, Rcube Metrology, and LMI Technologies have collaborated to deliver an advanced 3D metrology system. This solution leverages LMI’s Gocator® 3D Smart Sensors for rapid, non-contact inspection that meets the most demanding production requirements.
This blog dives into the specifics of this project, the measurement criteria, and how it’s reshaping manufacturing for industries like automotive and engineering.
The Challenge: Inspection of Cardan Gear Shafts
Inspecting Cardan gear shafts involves measuring multiple critical parameters with extreme precision. Traditional methods often rely on manual processes, which can lead to inconsistencies and errors. Key challenges included:
- Micron-Level Tolerances: Measuring with accuracy as fine as 1/1000th of a millimeter.
- Operator Dependency: Manual intervention leads to variability and inefficiency.
- High-Speed Production: The need to inspect parts quickly without compromising quality.
How the Solution Works The 3D metrology system was designed to perform 100% inspection of Cardan gear shafts on the production line, ensuring consistent quality. It uses LMI’s Gocator® sensors to provide precise, non-contact measurements while integrating seamlessly with production workflows.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Part Placement: Operators place gear shafts onto the fixture, designed for quick and repeatable positioning.
- Model Identification: The system’s software automatically identifies the part and selects the appropriate inspection model.
- 3D Scanning: Gocator® sensors generate a detailed 3D point cloud of the part.
- Data Analysis: The system measures multiple parameters, including:
- Slot Width
- Width
- Symmetry
- Distance Over Pins
- Angularities (0° and 180°)
- Length
- Gear Tooth Thickness
- Overall Length
- Slot Width
- Real-Time Results: Within just 9 seconds, the system displays results, indicating pass/fail status for each parameter.
Key Features and Benefits
- Micron-Level Accuracy: Measurements as precise as 1/1000th of a millimeter ensure top-notch quality.
- Operator-Free Automation: Reduces human error and dependency.
- Comprehensive Inspection: Measures eight critical parameters with speed and reliability.
- Real-Time Data Logging: Inspection data is stored automatically for traceability.
- Flexible Design: Adaptable to multiple gear variants and configurations.
Applications in the Industry This solution is a perfect fit for industries requiring high-speed, high-precision inspections, including:
- Automotive: Ensuring the integrity of gear shafts in engines and transmissions.
- Manufacturing: Providing consistent quality control for mass production lines.
- Engineering: Supporting prototyping and R&D with accurate data.
Collaborative Success This project showcases the power of collaboration. Qualitas Technologies brought its application engineering expertise, Rcube Metrology designed and built the physical system, and LMI Technologies provided the advanced 3D sensing technology. Together, these companies delivered a solution that meets the exacting demands of today’s manufacturers.
Watch the Video Check out the video to see this 3D metrology solution in action. Mr. Rajesh from Rcube Metrology and Raghava Kashyapa from Qualitas Technologies walk through the system’s features and benefits, explaining how it ensures accurate and efficient inspections.
Final Thoughts This 3D metrology system sets a new benchmark in manufacturing, offering speed, precision, and operator independence. By automating critical inspections for Cardan gear shafts, it minimizes errors, accelerates production, and improves overall quality.
If you’re interested in deploying a similar solution in your facility, contact us at Qualitas Technologies for a consultation.
#3DMetrology #MachineVision #Gocator #CardanGearInspection #IndustrialAutomation
