News | May 10, 2000

CMM Software Upgrade Boosts Laser Tracker Capabilities, Productivity

Newly upgraded software, SMXInsight 4 from SMX Corporation (Kennett Square, PA), now allows the company's laser trackers to provide fast and accurate 3D measurements to certify alignment of machine tools, confirm the dimensions of large parts, and perform quality assurance tasks in automotive, aerospace, and general manufacturing. The trackers, which are highly accurate, portable CMMs, are used to measure objects from one to hundreds of meters with an accuracy of 25 microns (0.001 in.) at 5 m.

The latest version of this Windows-based software, SMXInsight 4 provides new capabilities and simplified tools to beef up productivity and ensure accuracy. The key enhancements are a faster tracker compensation module, a new Catia interface, and an interface to theodolite networks.

For instance, the software extends the capabilities of trackers by improving accuracy and operator efficiency. The CompIT module allows even a relatively inexperienced user to compensate the tracker in minutes, and thus maintain accuracy even when conditions change over time. A new bundle adjustment capability ensures accuracy as well; this feature orients measurements within a real-world model regardless of changes in the relative positions of the tracker, the object being measured, or theodolites being used.

Other enhancements include a new Catia interface, which will allow users to work with Catia data and IGES translations, and a new theodolite interface, which enables a tracker to be used with a theodolite network.

An operator uses a laser tracker with Insight 4 software from SMX Corp. to measure this model depicting part of the hull of a single-engine jet.

Maximizing Productivity
According to the company, laser trackers can be up to 10 times more productive than other CMMs. As an example, tasks that require two or three operators using digital theodolites can be performed in less time by one operator using a laser tracker. And unlike large, stationary CMMs, the company's laser trackers can be used in a variety of venues — including the factory floor and outdoor locations — and can be embedded into automated processes.

They are used for inspection, alignment, development of templates for layout and fabrication, reverse engineering of large objects, CAD interfacing, and large-scale paraboloid measurement applications.

SMX Corp. is a manufacturer and worldwide supplier of laser trackers, metrology software, contract inspection services, and training.

For more information, contact James D. Shaw, SMX Corp., 222 Gale La., Kennett Square, PA 19348. Tel: 610-444-2300; Fax: 610-444-2323.

Edited by Nancy Katz