components Aerotech has
components Aerotech has its own application team dedicated to the integration of measuring systems and positioning systems. An example is the integration of the current Keyence 3D profilometer. Surface measurement is achieved using a light section method (laser triangulation). In this way, contours, unevenness and roughness of components can be measured with a resolution of up to 1 μm. Keyence offers a compact table-top unit with a manual or optional stepper motor driven XY table. In the latest version, the measuring range has been increased to 200×100×50 mm, but this is still not sufficient for some applications, simply because of the load capacity of the table. Subsequently, both users and Keyence have asked to what extent Aerotech can offer a better solution – in the form of extended adjustment/travel paths, a larger Z- axis and a granite table base for a higher load capacity. The next image depicts this solution: Integration of Keyence into Aerotech positioning systems: the travel range in XY is 600 x 600 mm Even deeper integration has been achieved with the Keyence VK-X1000 3D laser scanning microscope. The laboratory system is also used for height profiling and roughness measurement. However, due to its higher resolution, it offers measurement capabilities in the submicron range, resulting in higher demands on the positioning system. Here, too, there were restrictions imposed by the manufacturer with regard to adjustment paths and load capacity which could be solved with Aerotech’s expertise. With our laboratory systems, any combination of travel, loads and axis configurations can be realised. Collision protection can also be implemented using a Z-axis sensor. The overall image of the surface to be measured is displayed by Aerotech’s LMA (Laser Microscope Automation) software. Most other functions can also be controlled via the LMA screen, such as movement and positioning of the axes, the link to the Keyence viewer, a teaching procedure for measuring points and also a stitching procedure to subsequently combine the measurement results. In this way, LMA software can be used to fully automate measurement tasks across any component dimensions. For this purpose, Aerotech’s experts have installed a Z-axis with an adjustment range of up to 300 mm on a stable granite base. The measuring head is supported by an adapter bracket. For component adjustment, a cross table is mounted on a granite base. The X- and Y-axes are controlled by a stepper motor controller, which is optionally available for the VR5000 3D profilometer. The height of the Z-axis can be adjusted either manually using a handwheel or using a joystick. Integration of Keyence VK-X1000 3D laser scanning microscope in Aerotech’s laboratory systems Nothing is impossible: integration of a complete set of testing equipment Such forms of integration can now also be realised for complete sets of testing equipment. In a recent customerspecific implementation, a laser line scanner was used as a sensor. The measurement data is recorded and compared with the CAD data using software. Special test dimensions can be visualised directly in the evaluation. The application shown here is already TÜV-approved and guarantees compliance with all machine directives as well as national and international safety requirements. Aerotech does not intend to enter the market for measuring machines, but only integrates where a measurement technology manufacturer cannot offer a complete solution. In this regard, we are not limited to Keyence, but can also seamlessly integrate measuring systems from other manufacturers at any time. further information: www.aerotech.com 44 no. 1, March 2021
components Machine-optimized ESPRIT CAM solutions for Willemin-Macodel Willemin-Macodel is a supplier of cuttingedge, made-to-measure machining solutions for complex, very high precision workpieces offering high added value in industries like watchmaking, jewelry, medical, aviation and more. Due to the innovative configuration and complexity of certain millturn machines (508MT, 508MT2 X400, 408MT), programming and simulating using conven - tional computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software can be a challenge. Without the right software to drive those powerful machines, it is difficult to fully utilize their capabilities and realize their complete benefits. ESPRIT digital twin of Willemin-Macodel 508MT2 By working directly with Willemin-Macodel and a number of key clients, DP Technology engineers developed highly optimized support for Willemin-Macodel within their ESPRIT CAM software to drastically improve the user experience and programming efficiency for the MT series, including output of machine-optimized, edit-free G-Code. Some of ESPRIT’s key capabilities for these machines include: è create and sort operations in the required work coordinates è optimize simulation to match the output NC code and actual machine behavior è display various operation information to make programming in ESPRIT easier è provide a simple interface to set global machine settings è offer an easy way to mount vise jaws on the turret è offer a quick solution to mount chuck and collet on the main and sub spindles è allow programming of tailstock engage and disengage cycles è enable programming of vise steady rest engage and disengage cycles è let the user flag a milling operation as a cutoff operation Well known in the industry for generating edit-free G-code, DP engineers also worked closely with Willemin machine specialists to create a turn-key digital machine package, consisting of post processors and virtual machines for the MT series. This eliminates the time spent on editing the G-code and streamlines the machine setup and first article run off for the end users. ESPRIT’s highly optimized support for Willemin-Macodel “ESPRIT post developers collaborated with the team at Willemin-Macodel to develop a WM-specific software solution that enables quick processing of complex parts on our full 5-axis mill-turn machine tools,” says Jim Davis, Application Manager at Willemin. ESPRIT provides not only a dedicated CAM solution for the Willemin-Macodel machines, but also extensive engineering expertise and knowledge to make sure the end users get started quickly and keep running at top efficiency using the MT series machines. further information: www.espritcam.com no. 1, March 2021 45
