Applications, Uses and Components of Video Measuring Machine

Ever wondered how the parts of your earbuds are identical in shape and size? Or how does the casing perfectly fit into the lock of the earbuds? Precision engineering methods are the key reason for the repeatability and consistency of a large volume production. CNC (Computer Numerical Control) based machines, laser machines, and Swiss machines are some of the many advanced machines that are used in the manufacturing process of small parts. Though they are highly sophisticated, they are not 100% error-free. One out of a thousand outputs may come out with a manufacturing defect. 

Hence, quality control methods are employed that involve inspection, testing and analysis of the output on various parameters. An important parameter in quality control is dimension, and the metrological equipment that is used in dimensional analysis is the Video Measuring Machine. It is a highly accurate machine used for measuring the dimensions of simple to complex parts of small sizes. Video measuring machine manufacturers include cutting-edge hardware and software in these essential video metrology equipment.

Components of Video Measuring Machine

Video Measuring Machine is used across the manufacturing and processing industries. Using the edge detection technique, it captures the image of an object that is being analysed and identifies the boundaries and shape of the object, revealing its dimensions and geometry. With software, the image is projected on a larger screen for human convenience in reading the data. The machine shares data about dimensions, angles, geometry, coordinates, and other parameters. The components of this machine are:

1. Camera
2. Lenses
3. Stages
4. Lighting
5. Software
6. User Interface

The camera is high resolution for capturing detailed images or making video. The optical lenses magnify the image without distorting. The stages are motor-driven and move the object on all axes with control for scanning and bring it into the right position. The user interface enables the operator to set the machine, scan and review the results.

Uses of Video Measuring Machine

The key advantage of the video measuring machine is to provide high-definition measurement without any human contact with the object with efficiency, speed and precision. Some of the common industrial uses of the video measuring machine include:

1. Automotive: Dimensions and tolerances of gears and bearings, piston and connecting rods. Intricate parts of the electrical panel.
2. Electronics: Inspecting micro-electronics and PCBs in the electronic components.
3. Medical: Verifying surgical tools, prosthetics, implants and other medical equipment assembly.
4. General Manufacturing: Measuring the accuracy of molds and dies, fasteners, parts of watches and clocks
5. Aerospace: Parts of spacecraft, turbines, etc, are measured as they are vital for performance.

Conclusion

In the world of manufacturing, quality inspection and tests are as significant as fabrication processes. Dimensional analysis, geometric analysis, and automated scanning are the primary functions of this machine. Video measuring System manufacturers like RB Metrology play a vital role in aiding the manufacturing industry with reliable inspection machines. Besides manufacturing, these machines are also used in research and laboratory studies for their various functions.