ever it might be—becoming more affordable, more reliable, cheaper, and faster,” said Ryan.
Combinations of sensors are another approach some integrators are taking. In the search for fully autonomous measurement, SURVICE Engineering (Belcamp, MD) married a photogrammetry system to a Nikon MV 330 laser radar. “Under an Air Force research grant, we are enhancing the laser radar by integrating a metrology-grade photogrammetry system with computer-vision technology to create a fully-au- tonomous metrology system,” explained Mark Butkiewicz from SURVICE. “The goal is to make it accessible to the nonspe- cialist in aircraft manufacturing.” The MV330/350 laser radar measures to about 25 µm of accuracy (to 2 sigma) at 2 m and collects about 4000 points per second. “The laser radar is programmable to take automated measurements,” said But- kiewicz. “However, it takes an expert to operate it and there is a certain amount of setup time every time you reposition the unit.” To make it more autonomous, the computer vision kit
A Robotic MMDx scanner mounted to a robot replaces the hand-held version of the sensor.
consisting of a stereo digital camera is fitted to the Nikon laser radar. The vision system will examine each cost center, the areas where different parts or stages of the airframe are being assembled. “The vision system then automatically recognizes where it is and what it is looking at. It will then perform a pre- programmed script to measure what is needed for that opera-
2013 SME ANNUAL CONFERENCE JUNE 2-4, 2013 | RENAISSANCE BALTIMORE HARBORPLACE HOTEL | BALTIMORE, MD
Come to Baltimore and hear from two amazing keynote speakers, interact with the technical communities, learn about innovations and leadership in the breakout sessions, and network with fellow members.