3-D inspection profiling for parts measurement

Heidenhain's IK 5000 Quadra-Chek PC software system offers a new 3-D profiling capability for inspection measurement, allowing operators to measure and determine part profiles within desired tolerance zones. This optional 3-D feature compares the actual measured part to a 3-D model within the PC software.

To utilize the 3-D profiling, the operator imports a computer-generated 3-D model using IGES or STEP format and then takes measurement points on the desired part. This new function fits and compares the two within the system, and then both the overall profile and the individual point results can be toleranced, printed, and exported for evaluation.

The measurement and evaluation routines of 3-D contours using the system help simplify inspections 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.

The profiling option also can orient and align the model in all possible degrees of freedom and apply profile tolerances for any of the lines and surfaces, either as an overall tolerance or specific to individual features or surfaces.