Video: Scanning for Fast Model Capture and Validation of AM Parts

At the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS), I searched for developments outside of the show’s additive manufacturing area that have implications for AM. I found examples in Hexagon’s booth. The company showed rapid geometric scanning technology. Its Absolute Arm offers the chance to capture and develop a 3D printable model from an existing object in practically seconds — for example, to 3D print a replacement from an existing part. Another fast and easy-to-use metrology system for larger parts, the company’s Marvel Scan, employs a handheld unit that tracks reference markers on the walls or ceiling around the scan. The system offers a way to validate the form of large complex parts made via AM, and at IMTS, Hexagon was using it to scan a Czinger 21C automobile built on an additive manufactured chassis. I discuss both systems in this video.

Transcript

Additive manufacturing offers a short-lead-time way to make a part. What about capturing the model data? What about validating the part? Can these steps be done quickly?

I am at IMTS, the International Manufacturing Technology Show in Chicago. This is Hexagon’s booth at the show. Hexagon, measurement technology expert. This is the Absolute Arm non-contact scanner capable of capturing model data from a physical object very quickly: 1.2 million points per second scan speed. It handles differences in reflectivity with its SHINE technology: Systematic High Intelligence Noise Elimination.

All that together creates this fast, intuitive way to get model data. One user not only does without physical inventory of spare parts, but now does without digital inventory, too. Instead of using a library of CAD files, scanning parts as they’re needed is the fastest way to get model data. That is getting the model data. What about validating the parts, particularly large additive parts, particularly made from metal? Additive manufacturing offers a way to get a near-net-shape metal part, but can we confirm that it wasn’t distorted as a result of the additive process? Can we get that validation?

This is Hexagon’s Marvel Scan system. One of its features is this extra camera sticking out at a right angle. And because of that extra camera, just as an accidental side effect of the manual scanning that camera tracks with these location markers that are placed in the environment around the scan. Every marker a little bit different, and it allows the scanner to know precisely its position and accurately compile a complex geometric scan. Here it’s being used to scan this Czinger automobile with a chassis made from large laser powder bed fusion parts. A very intuitive measurement system for validating large assemblies, large components like this, low cost as well. One of the system components is the handheld scanner. But as for the location markers, they can be placed on the walls and ceiling by the user themselves.