Laser, CMM and CNC technologies displayed
Hexagon revealed a new technology for training entry-level CNC and CMM operators on production equipment, without devoting the actual machines to the instruction effort.
CMM and CNC Insights
- At IMTS 2022, company Hexagon announced their new CMM and CNC training equipment that allows new workers to gain experience with a given CMM/CNC machine without using a real one.
- This virtual machine is beneficial in giving a CNC experience without taking up the production time of training on a plant floor one OR needing to purchase a real machine for training purposes.
Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division announced it will feature new-to-market solutions to improve quality and productivity at International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2022, in Chicago. Hexagon presented its extensive technology portfolio used to create solutions for the smart factory.
Hexagon also had a spotlight the Porsche Taycan Turbo, an iconic electric vehicle, representing the innovation of the automotive technology. The company will unveil its factory automation cell (FMC) featuring new software and robotics integrated with world-class metrology technologies. This specialized product delivers real-time access to factory floor data for predictive smart manufacturing.
The Leica Absolute Tracker AT500, a 6D laser tracking system, also made its debut at IMTS. The new AT500 delivers improved performance to both reflector and probing measurement, as well as plug-and-play setup times. Its customer-centric design includes significant features including a battery-powered, integrated controller, full IP54-rated environmental protection, minimized cabling, and an expanded operating temperature range. Users no longer need to level the tracker or initialize a reflector before measurement begins. These enhancements and more translate to Hexagon’s most portable and robust laser tracker.
New training system for CNC and CMM operators and educators
During the trade show, Hexagon revealed a new technology for training entry-level CNC and CMM operators on production equipment, without devoting the actual machines to the instruction effort. The exclusive HxGN Machine Trainer is a ground-breaking educational tool designed for industrial training centers or schools. The system offers a variety of CNC controls, including 5 axis CNC milling and mill/turn CNCs. The unique training solution is scalable with the addition of machine digital twins, and well positioned to train the next generation of programmers and machine operators.
IMTS attendees saw how the system’s simulation is driven by a user interface. Operators were exposed to the techniques they need to master on an actual production machine and learn about critical situations without damage to the machining center. The training solution replicates a real-world machine user experience including a hand wheel, control panels, a tower indicator, animation and machine noises. The system can be expanded with a joystick and virtual coordinate measuring machine (CMM) simulation, so users can replicate and learn real-world CMM operations, too. The HMT is scalable while providing a minimal machine footprint, investment, and operational costs.
Tyler Wall, associate editor, Control Engineering, CFE Media and Technology, twall@cfemedia.com.
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