Computer-Aided Inspections (CAI) can be used for first article inspections, inspecting tools for accuracy or wear and monitoring manufacturing processes. Computer-aided inspection technology includes geometric algorithm software, non-contact 3D scanners, computing power and mass data storage. Computer-aided inspections have been used within the automotive industry at engine-building plants.

How is a Computer-Aided Inspection performed?

Your part or product is scanned to produce point cloud data. That data is converted to a clean mesh file that is then placed on top of the original computer-aided design data. A best fit function will be performed to make sure that the data is lined up correctly and spaced efficiently. Color deviation maps will show where the part surface is above or below the design surface.

There are two widely used non-contact measurement systems for computer-aided inspections, which are 3D scanners and lasers. 3D scanners are used to find range. Lasers calculate the relative distance between points on a single axis.

Overall, computer-aided inspection saves time and on money on first article inspections. You will spend less time collecting data and have more time to analyze.

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