A new release of HxGN Smart Quality online quality data and measurement resource management software, an enterprise IT solution designed to help manufacturers utilise aggregated quality data to gain actionable intelligence and insight for process optimisation, has been announced by Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence.

Providing a single platform for managing product quality and measurement resources, HxGN Smart Quality homogenises data from disparate systems across multiple locations to offer a company-wide view of quality.
The latest release features OEE-like functionality for all machines connected to HxGN Smart Quality so that manufacturers can assess and compare OEE using a standard metric. Offering insight into both availability and performance, the software supports root-cause analysis for investigating anomalies on an individual piece of equipment in line with TPM principles.
Improvements to the software’s document and work-flow management tool set enable manufacturers to build robust processes for measurement and minimise the risk of common operational errors. The user interface has also been enhanced with an individually configurable dashboard, while user-friendly functionality such as the ability to display part-mounting instructions within Hexagon’s Inspect software, helps to simplify shop-floor operations.
HxGN Smart Quality’s statistical process control capabilities are boosted with the addition of Q-DAS monitoring, which enables near real-time visualisation of measurement and process data. The software’s connectivity credentials are enhanced by the ability to interface with Heidenhain CNC controllers, offering new potential for data exchange with production equipment.
For further information www.hexagonmi.com

Faro Technologies has released its CAM2 2018 software platform for the company’s portable co-ordinate measuring machine products. Along with new reporting dashboards, the software offers improved quality control through Repeat Part Management (RPM) smart tool functionality.

RPM enables a specific inspection process to be created once and then repeated and executed by anyone on the factory floor. Accordingly, this ensures resource-efficient quality control of inspection routines without the need for highly skilled metrology professionals to drive and manage the process.
CAM2 2018 also features integrated web-based dashboard reporting that delivers real-time inspection results and insightful trend analysis in a user-friendly set of adaptable visual reports. As a result, RPM control
centre information can be shared across the organisation in real time, accelerating the ability to take immediate corrective action as required.
“As a full service, high accuracy, portable co-ordinate measuring solution provider, we can provide great value for our customers,” states Pete Edmonds, vice president of factory metrology. “Subsequently, we are focusing our platform development to ensure that our software enables customers to realise the full operational potential of their Faro hardware, ranging from small to large volume measurement. CAM2 2018 is a further evolution of our strategic direction to deliver the tight alignment of our hardware and software portfolios.”
For further information www.faro.com

The TracerM laser projector from Faro Technologies enables users to perform positioning, alignment and assembly tasks, quickly, accurately and safely.

Faro’s TracerM projects a laser on to a surface or 3D object, providing a virtual template that allows companies to improve productivity, reduce waste and eliminate rework. The laser template is created using a 3-D CAD model that facilitates the projection of a detailed laser contour of components or areas of interest, removing the need for physical templates and tools, and reducing the potential for human error.
TracerM provides long-range projection from 1.8 to 15.2 m. The device includes Faro’s Advanced Trajectory Control (ATC) function, which ensures fast projection with dynamic accuracy and a rapid refresh rate, minimising the ‘flicker’ associated with other systems.
Faro’s 3D laser projector can also be used in series for use on large assemblies; multiple TracerM devices can be controlled from a single workstation to provide a virtual template in a single (or shared) co-ordinate system.
For further information www.faro.com

Creaform, which is represented in the UK by Measurement Solutions, has launched the Cube-R automated dimensional inspection solution.

This optical 3D measuring machine utilises the Creaform MetraScan 3D-R metrology scanner for parts ranging from 1 to 3 m in size. The company says that Cube-R delivers both speed and volumetric accuracy, offering a realistic and comprehensive alternative to CMMs and other robot-mounted, structured-light 3D scanners.
According to Creaform, Cube-R can inspect several hundred parts a day, even on dark or reflective parts with complex geometry. Importantly, the machine offers simultaneous operation of data acquisition and analysis as part of a continuous and uninterrupted measurement flow. There is said to be no accuracy drift over time.
“Quality control managers are looking for integrated solutions that enable the detection of assembly problems earlier in the manufacturing process, all while reducing waste and downtime to ensure better productivity and higher product quality,” says Jérôme-Alexandre Lavoie, product manager at Creaform. “The Cube-R was designed with that in mind. It is the latest addition to our R-Series automated inspection solutions, which also include technology integration for clients seeking customised dimensional measurement solutions.”
For further information www.creaform3d.com