The 2010 R2 version of Delcam’s PowerInspect software incorporates automatic surface inspection and the ability to use GD&T data from CATIA models. Also, improvements to point cloud data handling and changes to the interface are said to enhance ease of use.

 

The hardware-independent inspection software works with various types of devices using a comprehensive range of routines for making simple measurements, inspecting geometric features and checking complex surfaces. According to the company, the software then presents detailed reports in easy-to-read formats.

 

Raster strategies are used for automatic surface inspection for CNC-controlled CMMs and machine tools. The user can set the distance between each point and the step-over between each line to develop the data grid. Each value can be set for groups of surfaces, the whole model or individual surfaces within the model. This enables collecting greater density of data from more critical areas of the component, the company says. The user can specify additional measurements in any areas of concern identified by the initial inspection.

 

Extracting GD&T data from a CATIA model ensures that the correct design intent is measured in a prototype or production component. The designer can specify the required tolerances as the design develops and as well as the datums for the inspection routine. The user can extract this information and use it as the basis for his or her quality control routines.

 

Also, the software can align regions of the point cloud to specific areas of the model rather than applying a best-fit routine over the whole part. In addition, point cloud registration enables multiple point clouds to be aligned with one another. The combined data can then be used to generate a single report for the whole item.