Creaform, a business of AMETEK, Inc. and developer of automated and portable 3D measurement solutions, has announced the launch of the new Laser Projection Add-on to its Inspection module, part of the recently released Creaform Metrology Suite, providing never-before-seen possibilities for operators in various industries. Thanks to the recent acquisition of Virtek Vision by Creaform, this new add-on expands the capabilities of the Inspection module by enabling the next generation of metrology-grade visual guidance in various applications.
The Laser Projection Add-on allows operators to scan parts, analyze deviations from a reference model, and project critical information directly onto physical parts during key manufacturing processes, a method called
Source: Creaform Scan > Analyze > Project. The Pick and Project functionality, combined with dynamic referencing capabilities, enables real-time projection of selections made in the inspection software, simply in a single click. As both technologies use the same positioning targets and reference structure, it ensures a seamless integration with existing systems.
The Laser Projection Add-on offers a range of solutions for industries like casting, aerospace, heavy industry, energy and military, that require precise operator guidance, including:
- Precise repair and rework of high-value parts: Operators can analyze part conformity by comparing scan data with nominal CAD models and project the necessary information back onto the part for accurate rework, ensuring compliance with customer specifications.
- Accurate parts installation: The Creaform 3D scanner aligns the Virtek Vision projector to display critical information onto assemblies, enabling flawless installation processes across industries such as aerospace, heavy industry and military.
- Alignment of raw materials for machining: The solution helps operators optimize the setup of large castings or forgings on CNC machines by projecting alignment markers, reducing setup time and ensuring sufficient material for machining.
- Ply inspection in composite manufacturing process: This add-on enables inspections during composite layups to ensure the absence of potential defects, such as wrinkles or air bubbles between layers.
“This latest expansion of the Creaform Metrology Suite takes full advantage of the synergy between Creaform and Virtek technologies to offer a truly unique solution on the market,” explained Simon Côté, product manager at Creaform. He then added that “empowering laser 3D projection with metrology-grade portable 3D scanning presents unprecedented opportunities to reduce errors and improve production efficiency for high-value parts and complex assemblies.”
