The newest generation of scanning electron microscopes (SEM) utilizing energy dispersive X-ray spectrometers (EDS) include computer automation that allows for rapid elemental analyses of small particles or inclusions. Automated analysis yields chemical and morphological information on large numbers of particles or inclusions, which can be used to identify specific populations of materials present within a sample. Automated SEM analysis eliminates operator subjectivity inherent in time-intensive manual SEM or optical characterization techniques.
Computer integrated quality data collection and management systems allow manufacturers to maintain consistently high levels of quality and nip potentially expensive problems in the bud for tangible bottom-line improvements.
Conceptually, the dimensional measurement process is quite simple. You get a drawing for a part-an electronic computer-aided design (CAD) file, blueprint, napkin doodle or whatever-which indicates certain critical part dimensions and tolerances: a particular diameter, for instance, must be 2.2370 inches ±0.0002 inch. All the manufacturer needs to do is to machine the parts to that dimension, then measure them to document that they are within the specified tolerance. What could be easier than that?
Process improvement methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma have gone through several boom and bust cycles since their introduction in the mid-80s. Despite moving in and out of favor, the longevity of Lean and Six Sigma can be attributed to the flexibility and applicability to companies of all sizes in all industries.
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the ASQ Automotive Division’s annual conference. There were excellent speakers throughout the day, but one who garnered a lot of attention was Ford Motor Co.’s Bennie Fowler, group vice president, global quality and new model launch. He gave an excellent presentation on the One Ford Program. One Ford is the mission set forth by Ford-One Team, One Plan, One Goal-to deliver profitable growth for all.
At this year’s Westec show in Los Angeles, near the company’s headquarters in Anaheim, CA, Verisurf Software Inc. and select Mastercam resellers introduced Master3DGage.
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