The company chose the Baty unit (Bowers Group; 0870 850 9050) because a CMM with touch-probe caused deflection on composite parts. Another option was white light scanning, but this was unsuitable for the required level of accuracy on small parts, while it was also difficult to find and measure component edges. The Baty R14 was a faster and simpler option, boasting automatic profile edge detection.
Says Peter Farndell, design and manufacturing engineer at Reverie: “The Baty unit makes measuring difficult parts that are too flexible to be held easier and quicker. The accuracy of measurement is consistent and perfect for our needs – in fact, the accuracy that the Baty unit is capable of achieving is more than we will ever need.”
The company, based in Colchester, Essex, is using the unit to measure composite key fob trims made in high volumes for a British maker of luxury high performance sports cars. For this, Reverie requires a quick and easy method of measuring to a tolerance of ±0.1 mm. As key fobs are cut and trimmed by hand, the Baty unit allows it to be consistent and accurate in their manufacture, reducing the possibility of rejects and associated costs.
Reverie has also used the Baty R14 to measure CFRP trims – a new prototype part for a high-end male grooming company. In this case, it accurately measures the side profile and the plan profile of the tail end of the part, the accuracy of which is absolutely crucial to a good cosmetic fit to the casting.
Peter Farndell, design and manufacturing engineer at Reverie, says: “The Baty R14 unit is perfect for checking any suspect parts that are identified during visual checking, or for checking and validating any client returns for fit errors. It works excellently for these particular applications.”
Reverie is also able to prove that finished parts are within the tolerances quoted to customers, should this be challenged.
As regards tooling, damage such as nicks and chips has a negative impact on the patterns, moulds and components machined; the profile projector highlights these flaws.Measurement of the depth and size of cutting tools is also made, to ensure correct tool dimensions are employed.This article was published in the July 2016 issue of Machinery magazine.
