Measuring arms
OnyxAceMeasuring arms
with 3D scanners
Onyx SkylineAce Skylinewith 3D scanners
Stahl Lasertechnik GmbH, a German manufacturer specialising in metal sheet processing, faced challenges in maintaining high-precision quality control and in-process inspection. The company required an advanced 3D measurement solution to detect deformation defects, perform First Article Inspection (FAI), improve existing manufacturing processes, and maintain part measurement data (CAD, measurement programs).
The Quality Management Team at Stahl Lasertechnik integrated Kreon's Ace arm and a Skyline 3D scanner to address these needs, significantly enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of workflows.
Stahl Lasertechnik integrated the Kreon Ace+ 3.50 measuring arm, the Kreon Skyline Eyes 3D scanner and the PolyWorks metrology software to optimise its quality control process. This integration allowed both contact (probing) and non-contact (3D scanning) measurements to scrutinise Geometric Dimensions and Tolerances (GD&T).
Initially, quality engineers regularly used the Kreon arm on various parts to test inspection results and refine manufacturing processes. Eventually, 3D scans were frequently combined with traditional probing operations to achieve the best performance.
The company plans to supplement the Kreon system with a rolling trolley, allowing them to move the measuring arm freely and position it closer to the working application.
Key benefits of the Kreon 3D measurement system:
Previously, the Quality Assurance team relied on a 3D measurement system from major competitors, which over time proved inadequate due to degraded performance. The QA experts required a metrology solution that could:
After a simple internet search, the quality experts at Stahl Lasertechnik quickly contacted Kreon Technologies and explained their challenges in sheet metal manufacturing. Unlike big competitors with a sell-and-go attitude, Kreon’s metrology experts provided a hands-on demonstration, addressing their specific application needs.
Stahl Lasertechnik identified Kreon’s 3D measurement solution as the ideal replacement, offering superior precision, ease of use and important mobility.
By leveraging PolyWorks metrology software, they gradually built a library of stored data of new and existing parts. A systematic measurement program enables them to adopt a ready-to-inspect approach on a large scale. The quality specialist then verifies and validates that the tolerances are compliant based on the engineered ‘Plan PDF’ and measurement data.
Key functionalities of PolyWorks Inspection software:
After completing the inspection of the first part, the inspection file, including measurement methods and tolerances, is sent to the customer. Clients can review, validate or request modifications before finalising the measurements of all parts.
Stahl Lasertechnik GmbH & Co. KG, based in Wackersdorf, Germany, is a manufacturer of sheet metal parts and complex assemblies. The company offers a variety of production methods, including laser cutting, water jet cutting, welding, machining, milling, painting and more. With 150 employees, Stahl Lasertechnik serves diverse industries such as mechanical and plant engineering, special vehicle construction, electronics, aerospace and railway technology.
