3D inspection & measurement overview
Conventional inspection methods such as x-ray testing techniques provide inspection and measurement, which is analyzed in two dimensional form. This limits users in accessing data and analyzing part structures with confidence, as resulting data is restricted to a flat 2D x-ray image. With the introduction and implementation of 3D inspection and measurement testing methods and processes, users are able to access internal and external part data in 3D, providing limitless opportunity for improving quality control. With the use of nondestructive testing labs, industry leaders are able to access 3D inspection test results quickly and accurately.
What is 3D Inspection?
3D inspection is any testing or inspection technique for industrial parts, in which the resulting data is displayed, reviewed and analyzed in 3D form. A 3D virtual image is developed using different inspection techniques for external and/or internal part data. 3D inspection of industrial parts, such as aerospace castings, medical device components, automotive piston heads or machined and engineered parts is significantly useful during pre-production stage of the manufacturing life cycle.
3D inspection allows users to test and investigate part components using different software for failure analysis, dimensional analysis and wall thickness distribution to name a few.
What is 3D measurement?
3D measurement is the process of accessing external and/or internal dimensions and part geometry in 3D form. A 3D virtual image is developed which is analyzed using specialized software for dimensional analysis. 3D measurement has been a vital tool for accessing measurements of parts for first article inspection reports, geometric dimension and tolerance programming and pre-authorized part approval process.
Types of 3D inspection
There are many effective technologies accessed by manufacturers today for 3D inspection data and analysis. Some of the most common types of 3D inspection testing techniques include:
Industrial Computed Tomography (CT) Scanning: Radiographic testing technique, utilizing an x-ray source to capture multiple 2D x-ray cross sectional slices. The 2D x-ray slices are reconstructed into a 3D model, for 3D inspection purposes, using a specialized software. This method of 3D inspection can also access 3D measurements and is completely non-destructive.
Laser Scanning: A laser beam is exposed to the surface of the subject and external part data is captured and structured into 3D virtual form, using a software. This method of 3D inspection is for external inspection and measurements.
Structured Light Scanning: With the use of structured light source, such as halogens, the external surface of a part is captured, based on the deformation of the light as it comes into contact with the surface of the part being inspected. The data is reconstructed using a software into 3D form for 3D inspection and measurement purposes.
Applications of 3D inspection & measurement
There are several applications for 3D inspection and measurements in regards to industrial testing purposes. Some of the most common types of applications include:
- Failure investigation
- Qualification of parts
- Part approval process
- Wall thickness analysis
- Comparison analysis for internal and external structures in 3D
- Dimensional analysis (FAI reports, PPAP, AS9102, GD&T programming)
Benefits of 3D inspection & measurement
3D inspection and measurement allow users to access part data in 3D virtual form. This aids in visualizing and reviewing part structures with high accuracy. Using technologies such as industrial computed tomography or laser scanning, users are able to utilize nondestructive processes and save time and costs of manufacturing part for testing procedures. Moreover, users are able to gain insight on part failures and inconsistencies with accurate measures. As oppose to conventional inspection methods, 3D inspection and measurement assist users in design and prototyping, reviewing part structure and durability. 3D inspection and measurement are also a significant factor for research and development purposes.
