Reference Target Placement for Flexible Plastic Parts
Position reference targets on flexible plastic parts at high-stiffness rib intersections using explicit 3-2-1 restraint forces to eliminate gravity sag and inspection disputes.
Optical Scanning
Meaning
Light based sensing technology allows for the creation of precise three-dimensional digital twins of physical parts. Optical scanning governs the inspection of complex molded parts and the reverse engineering of existing tooling components. It provides a dense cloud of data points that represent the surface of the plastic part.
Dimensional Verification
Using optical scanning allows quality inspectors to compare a finished part directly against the original design model. This comparison identifies warpage, sink marks, or shrinkage that may be difficult to measure with traditional calipers. Color maps show the deviations across the entire surface of the part.
Tooling Repair
When a mold is damaged or requires modification, optical scanning provides a precise map of the current state of the steel. This data guides the machining process to ensure new inserts fit perfectly. It is also used to document the condition of a tool before it is moved between facilities.
Surface Analysis
High resolution sensors in optical scanning can detect subtle surface defects like splay or texture inconsistencies. Measuring the depth of a grain or the height of a parting line flash becomes possible without touching the part. This speed makes it suitable for auditing large batches of components.