During the recent development of animation for the Sony‘s movie “The Pirates! Band of Misfits” the model makers embraced the new technologies. Read more….

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Anaheim, CA. January 9, 2011.

Verisurf Software, Inc. a leading supplier of advanced 3D measurement solutions to manufacturers worldwide announces record annual revenue growth in 2011 and expansion into new corporate headquarters with metrology training center.

Verisurf Software Headquarters

Verisurf’s consistent growth is due to increasing implementation of Verisurf 3D measurement solutions in manufacturing companies ranging from small machine shops to large aerospace companies and their global supply chains.

“I am proud of our dedicated employees and loyal resellers who are responsible for Verisurf’s best month, quarter and year ever”, states Ernie Husted, President and CEO. “I am very encouraged by our record number of new customers which points to increasing demand for our advanced 3D measurement solutions.”

Verisurf’s consistent revenue growth has enabled the company to add employees and expand into new corporate headquarters. The new facility is just down the street from their current Anaheim California location and accommodates the software development team, technical support, application engineering, sales, marketing and distribution warehouse. A major element of the new facility is the metrology training center with extensive laboratory space, tractor-trailer access and 5 ton overhead lift for moving large-scale measurement artifacts.

“Manufacturing adoption of Verisurf as a standard metrology platform is growing and our customers are asking us for trained workers to fill good jobs in tool building, inspection and metrology” states Ernie Husted. “Our metrology training center will provide skilled workers to manufacturers seeking to improve productivity and quality”.

Effective February 1, 2012 the new address is:

 Verisurf Software, Inc.

 Verisurf Software, Inc. is an advanced three-dimensional measurement solutions company committed to delivering advanced computer-aided inspection and reverse engineering solutions. Verisurf software helps manufacturers produce higher quality products in less time and at a lower cost with automated, Model-Based Inspection processes. For more information, visit the Verisurf website at www.verisurf.com.

Steinbichler Optotechnik GmbH, the worldwide leading supplier of optical measuring and sensor technology, presents the new integrated photogrammetry for the overall acquisition of 3D reference points, with which complex 3D digitalisation projects can now be handled even more efficiently. “We offer cost-efficient complete solutions which are characterised by simple operability and high precision. All equipment versions

Comet 3D

are freely scalable and can be easily adapted to any objects. Individual 3D images can be recorded and matched in efficient working steps. With the elaborate user interface, simple handling and modular accessory components, the new sensor and photogrammetry packages from Steinbichler offer both technically and economically impressive complete solutions,” explains Herbert Daxauer, product manager of 3D digitalisation at Steinbichler Optotechnik GmbH.

 High-quality hardware components such as cameras and lenses as well as extensive accessories (measured and certified reference guidelines and crosses, marks and adapter dice in various sizes, lengths and models) are accurately tailored to the entire range of COMET digital sensors as well as to specific customer requirements and guarantee the highest precision.

The entry-level versions as well as the high-end configuration can be directly retrieved from the digitalisation software COMETplus; it offers particularly time-efficient measuring. Yet the software offers even more: 

• Windows XP 64bit & Windows 7 64bit
• Manageable User-Interface
• Automatic point measurement
• Automatic classification of dimensions, reference cross and coded marks
• Imaging with point number display
• 3D illustration with camera position and point number display
• Simple selection of the data in the table and 3D view
• Adapter measuring for measuring edges, drill holes etc.
• Exporting the points
• Automatic registering of the COMET individual measurements in connection with INSPECTplus: adapter measuring analysis, punctual space comparison and deformation analysis. 

Steinbichler Optotechnik GmbH is well-known around the world for its years of expertise in high-precision optical measurement and sensor technology as well as for efficient hardware and software solutions designed primarily around the needs of the automotive, aerospace and tire industries. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Neubeuern, Germany, the international company today has a staff of 150 employees. In addition to a worldwide distributor network, Steinbichler has subsidiaries in the USA, Brazil, China, India and Portugal. Reference customers include Airbus, Audi, BMW, Boeing, Daimler, EADS, Siemens, Sony and Thyssen. Further information about Steinbichler Optotechnik is available on our website at  www.steinbichler.com.

Costa Mesa, California- The new ATOS Compact Scan provides accurate scans with detailed resolution at
high speeds. This modern 3D scanner combines the latest ATOS Blue Light Technology and software into
a compact design with an affordable price. Manufactured with high-quality components, this
lightweight and compact sensor ensures ultimate adaptability for various applications and

ATOS Compact Scanner

environments, especially in narrow and confined areas. Quickly measure and inspect castings, design
models, forms, injection molded parts, interiors, prototypes, vehicles, and much more.

About Capture 3D

We live in a world fueled by creativity, innovation, and competition. When product ideas are born, the
world of engineering gives it life. The tools and technologies we use on a daily basis are a critical factor
to achieve success. Capture 3D is a leader in 3D metrology solutions since 1997. From aerospace,
automotive, consumer goods, power generation, entertainment, medical, to a variety of other
industries, we improve product development through manufacturing and maintenance processes.

| 3D Scanners | Portable CMM | Inspection | Automation and Robotics |

For more information, press only:

Catherine Kim, (714) 546 – 7278 x307, catherine@capture3d.com

 With a Vast XT gold active scanning sensor for precision scanning, the CMM offers 0.9micron + L/400 accuracy with low probing force. It can measure small, intricate parts for the optical, electronic, medical, aerospace and telecommunication industries. A measurement volume of 500 × 500 × 500 mm can handle a variety of small parts.

 Abstract submissions will be peer-reviewed by the Coordinate Metrology Society and considered for presentation at CMSC 2012. The deadline for abstracts is Notification of acceptance will occur on formation about presenting a technical paper at CMSC 2012, contact Michael Raphael, Technical Presentations Coordinator at presentations@cmsc.org . Guidelines for presentations and technical papers can be downloaded at 2012 CMSC Technical Paper Guidelines . The CMS Executive Committee will review all technical papers presented at the CMSC, and select the conference’s best papers for publication in The Journal of the CMSC.

At the 2011 CMSC, 26 expert presentations were delivered by industry leaders from The Boeing Company, Mann+Hummel USA, Rolls-Royce North America, Sigma Space, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems, NIST, Lawrence Livermore National Lab, National Physical Laboratory (NPL), University of Ontario Institute of Technology, University of Arizona, Coventry University (UK), and other companies and educational institutions covering technology, theory, and practice to advance the field of 3D metrology.

 The Coordinate Metrology Society convenes each year to gather information and attend white paper presentations delivered by their peers. Attendees include novice and veteran technology users, service providers, and OEM manufacturers of close-tolerance, portable industrial coordinate measurement systems, software, and peripherals. In the Exhibition Hall, visitors explore the latest in laser projection systems, laser trackers, laser radars, articulating arms, photogrammetry/videogrammetry systems, scanners, and indoor GPS.

 About the Coordinate Metrology Systems Conference

The Coordinate Metrology Systems Conference (CMSC) is the world’s premier event for Measurement Technology Professionals sponsored by the Coordinate Metrology Society. Established in 1984, the five-day annual conference is held each year at a different location, and attracts visitors from around the globe. CMSC is acclaimed for its comprehensive program of top-shelf white papers and applications presentations given by industry experts from science/research laboratories and manufacturing industries, such as aerospace, space hardware, antenna, automotive, shipbuilding, power generation, and general engineering. No other trade show rivals the high level of authoritative information provided by CMSC members and master users of portable metrology solutions for quality control, quality production, and precision assembly. For more information about CMSC and the Coordinate Metrology Society, visit their website at http://www.cmsc.org.

Two years later…. economic downturn have created further cuts in Training in many industries, Training is always the first to go, and seems to be undervalued in the Metrology industry, which seems very odd based on the fact that our industry is based on “Accuracy and Precision“…..Company’s seem to find the a way to purchase new hardware and software, but finding the $$ and time to train new operators to be efficient seems to be nearly impossible in many area’s, does this not cost them more in money in the long run? Could it be that our industry itself does not put enough emphasis on Training? How can we train new people if new customers and user’s are told during the Sales process ”it doesn’t take any time to learn it, you can pick it up in a couple days”. We need the “ease of use” to make the sale, but is that hurting the customer and the industry over the long term as we now try to initiate some type of industry wide “Certification” process??

Here is the Survey and Technical Paper posted on Quality Digest.

Breaking down assumptions about the knowledge base of metrology operators

Expensive, highly technical metrology equipment, which is used worldwide to measure critical parts in aerospace, automotive, nuclear, and communications industries (to name a few), has increased productivity and quality of virtually every product manufactured today. There’s an accompanying assumption that users of portable dimensional metrology equipment are highly trained in the field of dimensional metrology. To validate this assumption, I developed a survey using Surveymonkey.com and distributed the link though my network of metrology professionals. I also asked those individuals to pass the survey on to their constituents.

via A Survey of Training in the Portable Dimensional Metrology Industry | Quality Digest.

BEJING, CHINA—A leading Chinese coordinate measurement machine (CMM) manufacturer, API China, has recently become an author of Calibration Specifications for Measurement Systems of Coordinate Positioning (CSMSCP) under the JJF Standard. The JJF standard is issued by General Administration of Quality Supervision Inspection and Quarantine of People’s Republic of China and it is a China national-level standard for measuring techniques. The CSMSCP is an important component of CNC machine tooling. It is used to calibrate and position the XYZ coordinates of the machine tools moving parts.

A laser interferometer must be used to calibrate the position of the moving parts. During this process, the laser interferometer is required to be highly accurate and very stable, only permitting precise measurements no worse than 0.5 parts per minute.

via API China Authors Measurement Standard – Industry Headlines – Quality.

CMSC 2011 Measurement Study Report

Benbrook, TX – November 9, 2011– The Coordinate Metrology Society (CMS) announced today the results of their large-scale, interactive measurement study conducted at the 27th annual Coordinate Metrology Systems Conference (CMSC). The 58-page report entitled “How Behavior Impacts Your Measurement” focuses on measurement strategies and behaviors of coordinate metrologists. More than 100 conference attendees participated in the data collection activity coordinated by the National Physical Laboratory (UK) assisted by members of the CMS Certification Committee. Metrology is the science of measurement, and professionals in this field work in diverse industries such as aerospace, automotive, power generation, and more. The report can be downloaded HERE.

Authors Keith Bevan from the National Physical Laboratory and Trevor Toman, Metrology Manager at Coventry University, performed statistical analysis of the study and compiled their conclusions into the new report. The criteria of the study’s measurement tasks enabled the authors to examine various training and assessment techniques, such as the evaluation of the participant’s prior learning and experience level, questioning methods, practical task monitoring and demonstration. Nearly a quarter of the participants had less than 3 years of measurement experience, a dozen fell in the midrange of 3-7 years of practice, while 69 participants were veteran metrologists with more than 7 years of hands-on experience with various measurement systems.

“The outcome of this study drives home the importance of defined best practices, and understanding measurement fundamentals that enable an individual to make informed judgments about a measurement… irrespective of the technology used whether it is hand tools or 3D portable metrology systems,” states Keith Bevan. “Clearly, questioning and planning the requirements of the measurement help reduce the possibility of making poor measurements.”

During the two-day study, participants were asked to perform three tasks using portable 3D coordinate metrology equipment for data acquisition: 1) measure a door using a combination of a Laser tracker, retro reflectors, and software; 2) measure an engine compartment using a combination of an articulating arm, probe and software; and 3) measure a vehicle using a combination of a Laser Tracker, probing, and laser scanning system. The final report reveals various results based on 3D measurement tasks executed with little or no instruction, as compared to the outcome of 3D measurement tasks completed using procedures, or a participant guiding an operator with methodology to collect the needed measurements. The study was sponsored by Metrologic Group and its U.S. subsidiary ATT Metrology.

Measurement Studies to Support Certification …..continued via CMSC 2011 Measurement Study.

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Image via Wikipedia

For any individual working in the Dimensional Metrology Industry the subject of Compensating for the Thermal Expansion of Materials has been an issue at one time or another. For accurate measurements consideration must be given to the type of material and the temperature of that material especially in environments where the ambient temperature is NOT 20° C or 68° F and the material is not within those temperature ranges. Granted, there are materials that are not affected by temperature change, therefore it is imperative for the Measurement Technician to be familiar with the proper application of Thermal Expansion.

In the Dimensional Metrology industry it is common for the Compensation of Thermal Expansion procedure to be called “Scale” as the Metrology Software typically applies a “Scale Factor” to adjust the data being measured and analyzed for the actual part temperature. This Scale Factor can be applied in various fashions, from “Scaling” the Measured Data, “Scaling” the Measurement Equipment, to “Scaling” a Least Squares Transformation thus creating the 7-parameter Transformation. Each Metrology Software uses specific processes for applying “Scale” the Technician should be familiar with the best process for the Measurement application to make the best decision for how to apply the “Compensation of Thermal Expansion”, incorrect application of “Scale” (Compensation of Thermal Expansion) can yield disastrous results great care should be taken when measuring part temperature, determining type of Material and the method utilized to apply the “Scale”.

Why Scale Matters…..

During the year the ambient temperature in many manufacturing areas throughout the world change with the seasons, thus Winter months are much cooler in the Manufacturing area then it is in the Summer months. Although this change in temperature may only be 6-8° F the change in the materials depending on the size of the object can be significant. Consider this: In simple terms, Aluminum changes 0.001″ inches in length for EVERY degree in Fahrenheit above or below 68° F. What this means is that a structure that is 240.000 inches in length, changes 0.0024″ for EVERY degree it varies from 68° Fahrenheit. Given that many of the Accuracy requirements for the Dimensional Metrology industry these days is in the neighborhood of 0.0020″ inches the requirement to account for that change in temperature of the material should be easily understood. This values are general in nature and vary depending on the exact type of Aluminum being used.

With correct application of “Scale” the temperature of the part becomes the “Same” by using the Metrology Software.

But my Equipment Compensates for the Temperature Automatically…..

Or does it? Typically, the Measurement Systems make adjustments to internal distance measurement components due to the ambient temperature they are being utilized in. For instance; Laser Trackers, Total Stations, Scanners may require the Measurement Technician to enter a Temperature, this temperature is utilized to adjust the Measurement Equipment to take accurate measurements however it makes no adjustment for the material being measured. When a system compensates for the Material the Technician is prompted for both the Type of Material and the Part Temperature without this information it is NOT possible to accurately calculate and apply a Scale Factor.

If the system being utilized requires the use of a Certified Scale Bar to determine Scale the equipment can provide accurate “Scale” ONLY when the Scale Bar Material and Temperature are the SAME as the part being measured.

When do I apply the “Scale” Factor?

The answer to this question is that each software uses different processes to perform the Scale process. It is best to consultant an Expert on the Software to answer this question as the wrong information can have catastrophic results.

Scaling during a Least Squares Transformation

This use of “Scale” requires that the operator have X, Y, Z values for previously measured points that had the Compensation of Thermal Expansion applied correctly during the initial measurement process.

This type of Transformation is common when building large Tooling structures in the Aerospace industry as it allows the Measurement Technician to apply the “Scale Factor” one time when valuing the points and then Exporting point data to be used as Nominal Points throughout the life of the Tool. As the temperature changes the relationship of the points to themselves changes, the Least Squares Transformation process accounts for these changes automatically when using a 7 parameter transformation.

If the Measurement Technician is faced with a measurement task that includes limited constraints for the available points the operator would typically “Fix” the Scale Factor. This method varies between Metrology Software’s, it is advised that prior to utilizing this type of Transformation which requires “weighting” of points that the Technician consult a Software Expert.

How do I know if Scale is right?

A simple check that has become a standard in the Aircraft Manufacturing Industry is to measure a Certified Scale Bar that is the same material and temperature of the part being measured. When Scale has been applied correctly the measurement equipment should be able to measure the Certified Scale Bar accurately (some shops allow up to +/-0.0030 inches of deviation). Dependent on the type of equipment, measurement volume and the measurement task requirements you deviations will vary. CAUTION:Your certified Scale Bar should measure within the expected accuracy expectations for the Measurement task.

If you do not have a Certified Scale Bar of the same material, it is only possible to verify that the Measurement Equipment is measuring “Scale” correctly. By measuring the points on the Certified Scale Bar in several different positions the Technician can assess the accuracy of the Measurement System. It is critical that prior to checking point to point distances the operator correctly account for the material type and material temperature of the Certified Scale Bar.