Automated matching system quality assurance in additive manufacturing

In the additive manufacturing industry, traceability plays a crucial role in quality assurance and the traceability of production processes. In particular, the use of a large number of 3D printers, producing flexible quantities ranging from single parts to several hundred units, creates an enormous pool of data. In this context, the implementation of an automated matching process for parts allocation is of great benefit in order to efficiently manage the data and optimize the production processes.

A stripe light projector is used to create a 3D point cloud. This is then compared to the customer’s CAD model to ensure reliable part identification. Furthermore, the system can pre-filter a large number of different 3D printed parts based on various parameters such as dimensions, surface reflection behavior, number of holes, etc. in order to save process time. In addition, the system can measure the part using the 3D data and check defined test surfaces for dimensional accuracy. The evaluation is based on the aku.visionManager® software. Communication between the system and the 3D printer takes place via a TCP/IP interface. The system can also communicate with the higher-level PLC controller via the Profinet protocol.

The machine vision system and the software aku.visionManager® enable a time and cost saving inspection. Thanks to its flexibility, sorted data processing and modularity, the system is able to make traceability transparent for the customer. This increases productivity and enables immediate measurement of components after production, which differentiates the customer from the competition.