When to Use Video Measuring Machine？

Vision Measurement System, also known as Video Measuring Machine (VMM) is used for quick and accurate 3D measurement on small parts which mostly used for quality control process in manufacturing plant.

Today, there has been an increase in demand for VMM and has become popular in the market.

However, do you know HOW to select a right VMM?

1. PART SIZE

The first priority is the size of the part. We always suggest user go to the biggest measuring range (X/Y-Axis) of the machine based on their budget tolerance. Suggest at least 120% higher than the max size from the actual part’s dimension.

Example: If the part’s max size is 300mm, then the machine X/Y-Axis in range of 400 x 300mm is recommended.

2. WEIGHT

The majority travelling stage of VMM is glass material use to support the contour illumination (bottom light source). Thus, a heavy part is not recommended to measure by VMM, especially if the sample is clamped by metal jig & fixture. Also, you may need to confirm load capacity of the machine too. It is suggested not more than 70% from the max load capacity of the machine.

Example: Assuming the max load capacity of machine is 35kg, then the capacity of machine X/Y-Axis in range of 400 x 300mm is 25kg in recommended. 

3. ACCURACY v.s. TOLERANCE

For precision measuring machine which involved in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) dimension, the upper and lower tolerance is a very common doubt. With came across our past experience, some advice to user that the accuracy of the machine must be at least 1/10 higher than the expected tolerance level of the parts, as this is the best for master level of accuracy requirement. Otherwise, at least 1/4 better than the tolerance request.

Example: If the tolerance requirement is 100µm, ±1/4 better means that the machine accuracy must be at 25µm.

4. USAGE

The usage of the machine will be taken in consideration. For instance, are you going to use the machine for 100% checking for all outputs or by sampling method only? How about the number of dimensions?

If the parts are required full lot of checking and multiple measurement area then the Fully Auto CNC Type is recommended, as it will reduce time-consuming for setting measurement programme. If your management is concerned with the ROI then this will be an added advantage. However, this is subject to respective budget availability

5. OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

Some parts are required to measure the Z-axis inner dimension & profile measurement, that comes to some VMM have few solution options to provide added accessories. (E.g.: Optical touch probe, Laser non-contact measurement, Lens & etc which subject to your measuring requirement).

6. SOFTWARE FEATURES:

 Normally the VMM will come with the measuring software. Besides the live view & graphics display, software feature also will be the concern. Toolbar function, light source control, magnification control, import or export DXF file & how to generate report also need to take in as your consideration.

7. SUPPORT AFTER SALES SERVICE

VMM is not a simple small tool but it needs a well-trained supplier to provide after sales service. Make sure your selected supplier has an experience technical team to perform the installation, calibration with reading adjustment & software training. Or any contract package can be considered to avoid hidden cost if out of warranty period.

8. KNOWLEDGE OF OPERATOR

Before purchased VMM, the operator needs to improve the machine knowledge, at least need to know how to study the basic engineering drawing & simple GD&T symbol. Otherwise, they might difficult to catch up during machine training.

9. WARRANTY

A common kind of 12 months warranty against manufacturing defect is provided by the factory. You may check with your supplier whether they offer extended warranties to insure your machine. On another hand, if your supplier can provide more than 12 months warranty, it indirect might be proof that the machine quality is good and they are confidence to handle it

Above sharing just for your reference. When you’re interested in investing a VMM to improve your quality process, select a supplier who offer a quality service and meet your specific needs.

If you have any enquiry with VMM , welcome to contact us by email: enquiry@mspmetrology.com

NEXIV VMZ-H3030

The VMZ-H3030 is easy to use, fast and enables the most accurate measurements in the NEXIV series due to precise stage operation and the high-performance optics.