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BMW Tests Manufacturing Optical Measuring Device
BMW AG has developed a new optical-measuring system that it says will improve quality and save time.
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BMW AG has developed a new optical-measuring system it says will improve quality and save time.
The carmaker is testing the system at its pilot plant in Munich. The first production applications are expected to be for the next-generation 5 Series sedan.
Using two flexible robotic arms—each of which has a pair of sensors—on either side of the vehicle, the system creates a precise three dimensional map of the entire vehicle with an accuracy of less than 100 µm, BMW says. The data is used to quickly identify any deviations, including those that are barely visible, to allow the appropriate design and production changes to be made as needed.
BMW says the system is twice as fast as previous single-sensor techniques, cutting the time it takes to map a vehicle down to a few days. The fully automated process can be performed at night or other off-peak hours to further improve efficiency. Measurements are shared online with manufacturing engineers to make the proper plant adjustments.
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