touchscreen PC monitor. This advancement enables a feature called video edge detection (VED), which automatically detects the differ- ence between light and dark, eliminating the human error usually seen in operator-to-operator subjectivity. Customizable lighting can also be adjusted in real time, depending on the surface finish of a gear, to ensure the image is not washed out or distorted. An advanced vision system is combinedwith equally capable soft- ware. Systems such as the Starrett AVR-FOV benchtop vision system have integrated software to make the inspection process intuitive and user friendly. CAD files can be imported as DXF files to instantly compare a feature such as gear tooth thickness or slot width to a master overlay for quick checks. Optional touch probe capability also provides CMM (coordinate measurement machine) functional- ity by allowing data points to be taken from discreet, hard-to-reach areas including bore holes that might also be a precision feature on a given gear. A touchscreen monitor allows the user to simply touch features of the part to record desired features such as points, lines, arcs, angles, and more. Once the desired features are collected, they can be compiled into a part programthat can be stored for future use. Variable lighting control can also be built in as programmable steps. EASE OF USE At this point, a user can walk up, place a gear or multiple gears in the view of the camera and initiate the program. In a few seconds,
accurate and dependable results can be obtained time and time again regardless of who is using the systemor their level of experience. This feature virtually eliminates error due to user-to-user subjectivity. As production demands increase, lead times need to be decreased without compromising quality. The ability to confidently perform everything ranging from quick checks to in-depth QC inspections in seconds has never been more important. The Starrett AVR-FOV allows for multiple small gears, or more features of a larger gear, to be placed in the field of view. When combined with Super Image technology, where amaster image of the entire stage is created from multiple smaller images, entire batches of gears can be inspected simultaneously. This process is scalable as well. Starrett vision systems come in a variety of sizes — from small, benchtop inspection microscopes to benchtop vision systems, to floor standing systems with large stages, all capable of being equipped with multiple lenses. Once the results are obtained and presented to the user as a report, they can be instantly saved and exported in a number of different formats, depending on the application requirements. When it comes to inspecting the numerous features of a gear, there are many paths to success and all of them have their merits. In a modern manufacturing world, however, where speed and accu- racy are paramount, the speed, accuracy, and ease-of-use of a vision system is invaluable.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
CW Moran is Marketing Specialist for the Metrology Division of The L.S. Starrett Co. His first role at Starrett was in the production department. For more information, go to www.starrettmetrology.com.
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