Insight: Metrology system spots fault in automotive production line

“The visual aesthetics of our trucks is just as important as functionality. It gives the driver confidence that the truck can operate 24/7 when they know everything, even the smallest detail is just right,” explained the head of production.

Identifying where in the production line the positive flush error in the door placement was occurring was made easier when the truck manufacturer appointed metrology specialist, Third Dimension.

Third Dimension successfully integrated its flagship product, GapGun with Inline software at the body in white stage, just after the point where the doors are fitted.

“This was the logical place to position the first pair of GapGuns as it is easier and less expensive to re-work vehicle doors if they are found to be out of tolerance at this point,” explained application engineer, Michael Briggs from Third Dimension.

GapGun is a non-contact, hand-held, precision measurement tool which automates the collection and storing of gap and flush measurement data. Inline software alongside GapGun enables multiple users to work from the same check plan as an overhead screen displays points which need measuring and gives immediate go/no go feedback.

“Identifying which part of our production process is introducing this issue is critical. GapGun with Inline software enabled us to locate where the door mismatch was happening so we could move on to resolve this” continued the head of production.

To date, manual gauges have been a commonly used tool within production lines to test if the assembly of parts are in tolerance. These present a few known issues; potential for human error, time consuming and lack of traceability. Increasingly, more vehicle manufacturers are replacing manual gauges with digital, non-contact precision measurement tools so they can ensure an audit trail on all measurements and identify deviation from tolerances quickly.

Third Dimension www.third.com/products/hardware/gapgun