Reference Systems
A common starting point is essential, so we begin a project with a reference system (control network) such as a
foundation reference system (FRS), enhanced reference system (ERS), or jig reference system (JRS). This requires
the installation of a series of monuments that are then carefully valued. A control network is typically valued
from multiple laser tracker stations with overlapping measurements from different angles. Spatial Analyzer's
Unified Spatial Metrology Network (USMN) function is then used to exploit the extremely accurate distance
measurement capabilities of the laser interferometers found on trackers. USMN uses weighted multilateration
to reduce the uncertainty for the measured monument values. This process yields reference values of extraordinary accuracy.
New control networks are often found on new foundations. Fresh concrete moves (changes shape) significantly during
curing, so periodically we will re-value reference systems on new systems, especially during the first two years.
Tool Setting
Aircraft tooling has many features, large and small, which require precision "building" or "setting." This work is
typically done using laser trackers and requires multiple measurements: The detail is "set" or adjusted to the correct
location, then checked as a separate operation. Details are usually dowelled to help prevent unwanted movement. After
doweling, a final verification measurement is done.
Determinant assembly is used where practical. For determinant assembly, no allowance is made for adjustment. All parts
are precision made to fit together and meet assembly tolerances. Such elements do not require the setting step and are
just checked, dowelled, and verified.
Part Inspection
Electroimpact's shop includes some very large CNC milling machines, often used for bed assemblies. These require
post-machining part inspection, as do many parts made by our subcontractors. When a bridge-type CMM is impractical,
inspection is performed with laser trackers, or other portable CMMs such as arms, using Spatial Analyzer, Polyworks
or Verisurf.
Scanning
Our Leica ATS600 touchless scanning laser tracker provides very accurate scans over long ranges. It also allows direct
measurement of SMRs just like any other laser tracker. This provides a lot of options for part inspection. We are also
capable of scanning parts using our Hexagon Absolute Arm.
Nadcap AC7130A accreditation
Electroimpact was one of the first companies in the Pacific Northwest to receive Nadcap accreditation for Measurement
and inspection. We have accreditation for:
- AC7130A — Measurement & Inspection (M&I)
- AC7130/1A — M&I — Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM)
- AC7130/2 — M&I — Laser Tracker
- AC7130/3 — M&I — Articulating Arm
3D CAD modeling and reverse engineering
We have several hundred CAD licenses including those for CATIA V4, V5, Solidworks, Siemens NX and 3DExperience and
experienced tooling, automation and metrology engineers to operate them! Call us to help meet your reverse engineering
and modeling needs.