Data Collection

As with most things in life, technology improvements are developed to make tasks easier and faster. The metrology industry is certainly keeping pace with this norm. Because we have been given faster, easier, and more accurate measurements, we frequently ask for even more. And why not? The technology exists and it has been proven. It’s accurate, and it looks easy enough to use. I want more data, and I want it now! Well, I have just one question: What are you going to do with the data?

The answer to this question determines the technology required to inspect any given measurement. There are really only two reasons to measure something. The most common reason is to make sure what you’re measuring fits. That could mean it fits to a known specification, as in a part being within spec of its CAD model or part-print data. It could also mean it fits to its mate, like a stud in a wall, or a peg in a hole. You get the idea. The other reason to measure something is to remake it; this is better known as reverse engineering. For example, to remake a vintage farmhouse table you would carefully take it apart and measure all the pieces so you could re-create them in the most functional and aesthetically pleasing way possible. Another example would be restoring an old car and finding that one of the door hinges is rusted beyond repair. Because a hinge is no more than a couple of pieces of stamped metal and a pin, it’s pretty easy to take it apart, make a crude drawing with the required measurements, and have a local fabricator make you a new one.

Now, I will look at a few technologies and discuss where they fit within these two measurement scenarios. Hint, they all overlap both categories, which is why this is one of my biggest hot-button issues. I say this because, as with most things, there isn’t (yet) a tool that does all things for all people in all scenarios. So, be suspicious of anyone who says their solution is the answer to all of your metrology problems. More likely than not, it isn’t. >
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