The use of Automatic Vision System for High contrast view of plastic mouldings optimises efficiency for manufacturers.
Introduction
Miles Platts, a leading designer and manufacturer of precision technical mouldings, produce over eight million units per month. They specialise in the provision of high precision, tight tolerance mouldings in engineering polymers often with zero or minimum draft. They have expertise in coil bobbins & electrical insulation solutions for a variety of industries – each with unique measurement requirements. They have long term experience in the use of vision systems and needed a solution that would allow them to increase efficiency, volume of output and meet the highest level of quality assurance. They already have a long relationship with Optimax and needed an innovative automated solution. The AVR300 CNC Vision System from Starrett provides the accuracy, reliability, and versatility to meet these demands and Miles Platts’ ambitious plans for growth.
Digital CNC Solution Solves the Problem
Miles Platts’ capability studies alone demand numerous precise measurements of 50 + parts – so the repeatability and speed of the AVR300 presents a clear return on investment. Facilitated by the powerful 3D measuring software, Jonathan explained it’s transformative impact: “This powerful feature allows me to preprogram the automated measurement of specific parts, giving capability for measurements by shop floor staff without need for training”. Furthermore, with Optimax’s UKAS accredited Service and Calibration support, he is confident that the AVR300 will continue to optimise the full supply chain process without overburdening the Quality Control department. The UKAS accredited calibration ensures accuracy by providing a true understanding of the measurement uncertainty. This global standard is accepted across industry sectors and export markets.
CNC Improved Inspection Times
The AVR300 stood out to Miles Platts due to its versatility, an essential feature for a manufacturer meeting the differing requirements of numerous sectors. Quality Manager, Jonathan Fraser explained that for Automotive projects, the AVR300 is essential not only for Initial Sample Inspector reports but throughout the Production Part Approval Process. Black, white, and clear plastics mouldings can be particularly challenging to inspect and measure optically. The precision lens and advanced lighting options create high contrast on surface, edge, and blind hole features. Miles Platts was impressed by the accuracy of the Starrett Vision range, with capability to measure optical height and depth down to a few microns.
Reporting
The professional reporting outputs allow templates to be easily created, exported, and sent to customers, saving time, and ensuring accuracy.
Calibration
The equipment is UKAS calibrated by Optimax, ensuring that it conforms to an internationally recognised standard, providing an independently audited process of verification and well understood measurement uncertainty.
Our thanks to Miles Platts
“The AVR300 is transformative – optimising processes and cutting down inspection times” Quality Manager, Jonathan Fraser
“The AVR 300 is everything we needed in one machine. It is invaluable for ensuring part performance to meet sector requirements Quality Manager Jonathan Fraser”
Jonathan Fraser stated “with Optimax’s UKAS accredited Service and Calibration support he is confident that the AVR300 will continue to optimise the full supply chain process without over-burdening the Quality Control Department”
