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What is Metrology Part 12: 3D Reconstruction

3D Reconstruction

In our previous article we outlined the basis of most applications within computer vision. It is a vast and large field. It has a lot of intersectionality with 3D technology and the future of 3D printing as well as metrology. The field of 3D imaging in general takes a wide skill set in general and that is exciting. In this article we will talk about a specific realm within 3D metrology and machine vision and computer vision. This realm is known as 3D reconstruction.

3D reconstruction is the process of capturing the shape and appearance of real objects. This process can be accomplished either by active or passive methods. If the model is allowed to change its shape in time, this can be referred to as non-rigid or spatio-temporal reconstruction. Spatio-temporal reconstruction refers to 4D reconstruction as it is adding the 4th element of time into creating an object (x-position, y-position, z-position, and time). 

Spatio-temporal reconstruction of eyelids

2D digital image acquisition is the typical information source of 3D reconstruction. 3D reconstruction is based on multiple images, and it may use only one image in some cases. There are various methods for image acquisition that depend on the occasions and purposes of an application. Visual disparity, illumination, performance of the camera, and the scenario should be considered when attempting to do a 3D reconstruction. 

In terms of metrology, the objects used to measure the 3 dimensional object as a whole include a camera as well as a data interpreter such as a computer. The camera will take 2D images in terms of digital image data. This is referred to as a monocular cue method for data collection. Monocular cues typically include a singular viewport, such as a camera with one lense. Monocular cues methods refer to using one or more images from one viewpoint to create a 3D construction. It makes use of 2D characteristics (e.g. Silhouettes, shading and texture) to measure 3D shape, and that’s why it is also named Shape-From-X, where X can be silhouettes, shading, texture, etc. 3D reconstruction through monocular cues is simple and quick, and usually one digital image so it requires only one camera. Stereo correspondence is a fairly complex problem that this method tries to avoid. 

Correspondence Problem

Stereo correspondence refers to correspondence problem of 3D reconstruction. The correspondence problem refers to the problem of realizing which parts of an image correspond to certain parts of a different image. Differences are due to movement of a camera, time changing, and/or movement of objects in a photo.

When we have two or more images of the same 3D scene, taken from different points of view, the correspondence problem refers to how we find a set of points in one image that are classified as the same points in another image. Points or features in one image are matched with the matching points or features in another image. The images can be taken from a different point of view, at different times, or with objects in the scene in general motion relative to a camera(s). 

This problem of stereo correspondence is most prevalent when multiple devices are used to capture images. If two photographers take an image of a scene, it is nearly impossible to have them sync up their 3D data from the 2D forms that they took. One frame of reference may include an extreme amount of information that does not sync with a frame of reference that may be only a couple meters away. 

A typical application of the correspondence problem is found in panorama creation or image stitching. When two or more images that have a small overlap are stitched into a larger image this problem is apparent. It is necessary to be able to identify a set of corresponding points in a pair of images in order to calculate the transformation of one image to stitch it onto the other image.

In our next article we will be analyzing a particular method within measurement that deals with this problem and the advanced physics behind it.

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What is Metrology Part 11: Computer Vision

In the previous article within our metrology series we took a look into what machine vision is as a whole and how it integrates within metrology. We also made a slight distinction in what machine vision is compared to computer vision. It is important to do so as these terms sometimes get mixed together as one term, but they are not necessarily the same. In this article, we will explore the definition of computer vision, its applications, and how it relates to metrology as a whole.

Doing Fun Stuff in Computer Vision

Computer vision is an interdisciplinary scientific field that deals with how computers can be made to analyze data from digital images or videos. From the perspective of engineering, it seeks to automate tasks that the human visual system can do.

Computer vision tasks include methods for acquiring, processing, analyzing and understanding digital images, and extraction of high-dimensional data from the real world in order to produce numerical or symbolic information. This information is then used to make decisions through artificial intelligence. The transformation of visual images into descriptions of the world can interface with other thought human processes. This image comprehension can be seen as the understanding of symbolic information from image data using models constructed with the aid of geometry, physics, statistics, and learning theory. We have talked about this a bit more indepthly in terms of complex analysis and geometry previously in this series. 

As a scientific discipline, computer vision is concerned with the theory behind artificial systems that extract information from images. The image data can take many forms, such as video sequences, views from multiple cameras, or multidimensional data from a medical scanner. Computer vision seeks to apply its theories and models for the construction of computer vision systems.

Some applications of computer vision include the following:

  • 3D reconstruction
  • Video tracking
  • Object recognition
  • 3D pose estimation
  • Motion Estimation 
  • Image Restoration

3D Reconstructed Truck

3D reconstruction is the process of capturing the shape and appearance of real objects. This process can be accomplished either by active or passive methods. If the model is allowed to change its shape in time, this is referred to as non-rigid or spatio-temporal reconstruction. Spatio-temporal reconstruction refers to 4D reconstruction as it is adding the 4th element of time into creating an object (x-position, y-position, z-position, and time). 

Video Tracking Example

Video tracking is the process of locating a moving object (or multiple objects) over time using a camera. It has many uses, some of which include: human-computer interaction, security and surveillance, video communication and compression, augmented reality, traffic control, medical imaging, and video editing. Video tracking is time consuming due to the amount of data that is contained in a video. The need for object recognition techniques in video tracking is very difficult as well. 

Object Recognition

Object recognition technology in the field of computer vision is used for finding and identifying objects in an image or video sequence. Humans have the ability to recognize a large amounts of objects in images with a lack of effort. We are able to do this despite the fact that the image of the objects may vary somewhat in different viewpoints, in many different sizes and scales, or even when they are translated or rotated. Objects can even be recognized when they are partially hidden from view. This task is still a challenge for computer vision systems. Many approaches to the task have been implemented over multiple decades.

3D pose estimation

3D pose estimation is the problem of determining the transformation of an object in a 2D image which creates a 3D object. One of the requirements of 3D pose estimation comes from the limitations of feature-based pose estimation. There exist environments where it is difficult to extract corners or edges from an image. To deal with these issues, the object is represented as a whole through the use of free-form contours.

Motion Estimation

Motion estimation is the process of determining motion vectors that describe a transformation from one 2D image to another; usually from adjacent frames in a video sequence. There lies a problem as the motion is in three dimensions but the images are a projection of the 3D scene onto a 2D plane. The motion vectors may relate to the whole image or specific parts, such as rectangular blocks, arbitrary shaped patches or pixels. The motion vectors may be represented by a translational model or many other models that can approximate the motion of a real video camera, such as rotation and translation in all three dimensions and zoom.

Image Restoration

Image Restoration is the operation of taking a corrupt/noisy image and estimating the clean, original image. Corruption may come in many forms such as motion blur, noise and camera mis-focus. Image restoration is different from image enhancement in that the latter is designed to emphasize features of the image that make the image more pleasing to the observer, but not necessarily to produce realistic data from a scientific point of view. Image enhancement is when one wants to use software such as Adobe Photoshop or Adobe LightRoom. With image enhancement noise can effectively be removed by sacrificing some resolution, but this is not acceptable in many applications. 

Within our next articles we will be looking indepthly into the previously outlined topics and relate them to the field of metrology as a whole.

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What is Metrology Part 9: Machine Vision

In this metrology series we have focused a lot on companies as well as technology they are creating in terms of metrology. I would like to take a different approach to a couple of the next articles. I would like to look into certain topics that are of interest to me within this field. The technology used in this field is high tech and very important to keep in mind when thinking about the future developments of the industry. Machine vision is definitely one of these types of technologies that will be vital for the industry and its future development. In this article I will be defining machine vision and taking a look into how it integrates well with metrology. 

Machine Vision

Machine vision is the technology and methods used to provide imaging-based automatic inspection and analysis for applications such as automatic inspection, process control, and robot guidance, usually in industry. Machine vision is a term encompassing a large number of technologies, software and hardware products, integrated systems, actions, methods and expertise. Machine vision as a systems engineering discipline can be considered distinct from computer vision, a form of computer science. It attempts to integrate existing technologies in new ways and apply them to solve real world problems. The term is the prevalent one for these functions in industrial automation environments but is also used for these functions in other environments such as security and vehicle guidance. 

As mentioned this term is distinct from a common term people have known as computer vision. Machine vision refers to the larger scale expertise of imaging hardware, software, and other products that integrate together. A machine is telling a user what is there and there needs to be nothing more additional within this process. Computer vision is typically trying to optimize an image and the data that it represents. Computer vision is an interdisciplinary scientific field that deals with how computers can be made to gain high-level understanding from digital images or videos. From the perspective of engineering, it seeks to automate tasks that the human visual system can do. In a different article we will explore computer vision more thoroughly.

With machine vision being such a vast field here are some initial applications of it:

  • Predictive Maintenance 
  • Packaging Inspection
  • Product and Component Assembly
  • Defect Reduction
  • 3D Vision Inspection

IOT and Predictive Maintenance

Predictive maintenance (PdM) refers to the watching and surveillance of performance and the condition of equipment. This helps to reduce the number of failures in a manufacturing process. Predictive maintenance techniques are created to estimate when maintenance should be performed. Tasks are only done as needed.  The main idea of predictive maintenance is to allow convenient scheduling of corrective maintenance, and to prevent unexpected equipment failures. Machine vision is vital in this sense as it allows a user to have autonomous views on machine processes and to see if they are failing. 

Packaging inspection refers to when machine vision systems are used to see the overall contents of what is within a standard package and if there are components within the inside of a package that should not be there. This allows a company or person to toss or ride of defective packages before they are sent off to mass distribution channels. 

The ability to read a barcode is also a machine vision process. Interpreting the image on a product in terms of a barcode allows for a product to have the ability to be specified in terms of its production number. Also, this can allow for a product to have a track record or data attached to its production. 

Product and component assembly are essential when it comes to using machine vision. In order to automate the processes of production, one must have repeatability. Machine vision systems allow individuals to see what may be going wrong in component and product assembly.  This then leads to the overall improvement of product. This means fewer defects are implemented within a system. 

3D Image Inspection

3D Vision reads characters in highly reflective environments such as medical device components. Robotic guidance is a large part of 3D vision inspection. 3D vision enables an application to locate a point of interest and establish an object’s 3D position with respect to an absolute coordinate system using multiple views.

The different applications within machine vision integrate quite well with metrology as a whole. Accuracy is of utmost importance to this field as we know. This type of technology allows for the automation of a variety of items and processes within metrology. All in all the technical integration of this into the sphere of metrology is still being explored and there  is more of it to come.

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What is Metrology Part 8: Complex Analysis, Optics, and Metrology

The field of metrology is interesting for me as it integrates a lot of what I enjoy in physics and technology. The field from the outside seems very bland, but when you delve into the background, it becomes a more colorful picture. The field is reliant on the physics behind optics and image processing. These are areas of extreme interest to me. Visualization and capturing visualization data is essential for the field. A lot of this data is difficult to interact with as well because the data must be interpreted as a function that can be manipulated for reconstruction purposes from point cloud data. The mathematics behind this is what can be referred to a complex analysis. Today I will give some basic insight into these advanced concepts of physics and how they open us to learning more about metrology and 3D scanning. 

Let’s first talk about the field of optics. Optics is the branch of physics that studies the behaviour and properties of light, including its interactions with matter and the construction of instruments that use or detect it. Optics usually describes the behaviour of visible, ultraviolet, and infrared light. Because light is an electromagnetic wave, other forms of electromagnetic radiation such as X-rays, microwaves, and radio waves exhibit similar properties.

Optical science is studied in many related disciplines including astronomy, various engineering fields, photography, and medicine. Practical applications of optics are found in a variety of technologies and everyday objects, including mirrors, lenses, telescopes, microscopes, lasers, and fibre optics, as well as metrology practices.


Yes Imaginary Numbers are useful

I personally have a strong fascination with the field of optics. Firstly, I wear glasses and my glasses help me “see” more. The field of optics quickly takes a dive into metaphysical thought processes on human perception as well as what we actually see. Optics is the center of how most of us “see” the world. When we are in the field of metrology we are relying on man-made technology to measure what we see as humans. The realization that we as humans are measuring reality and physical dimensions is a bit mind-boggling. We do not necessarily know what reality is, but we use metrology to measure for us what is within our “grasp”.

Here is where it starts to become a bit more interesting. What defines the system we are in as humans who are measuring within their current state of reality? There must be a larger system that allows for this to occur. This is where complex analysis comes into play. Complex analysis, traditionally known as the theory of functions of a complex variable, is the branch of mathematical analysis that investigates functions of complex numbers. It is useful in many branches of mathematics, including algebraic geometry, number theory, analytic combinatorics, applied mathematics; as well as in physics. As a differentiable function of a complex variable is equal to the sum of its Taylor series (that is, it is analytic), complex analysis is particularly concerned with analytic functions of a complex variable (that is, holomorphic functions).

Complex Analysis 3D Function

For those of you intimidated by math, I will explain the meaning behind the math. Complex analysis is the branch of mathematics that is trying to understand the imaginary or complex plane of the universe we are confined to. We are working within 3 degrees of freedom or 3-dimensionality within our universe. The system of the universe is not determined by what is seen in the 3-dimensional world. Our perception is not what easily moves the universe. The forces that work on our 3-dimensional universe are applied through the fourth dimension or the complex plane of the universe. For all those who want to learn more physics be sure to enjoy immense philosophical implications. So why is all of this relevant to metrology and optics? Think about this. The signals or data we receive from viewing images is distorted by the complex realm. If it was not, there would be extremely high resolution images taken on a consistent basis. That tiny bit of blur in a photo, for example, is a byproduct of the complex world interacting with the physical realm we are within. This is what typically creates a noisy signal typically in physics. In signal processing, noise is a general term for unwanted (and, in general, unknown) modifications that a signal may suffer during capture, storage, transmission, processing, or conversion. Noise reduction, the recovery of the original signal from the noise-corrupted one, is a very common goal in the design of signal processing systems, especially filters. The mathematical limits for noise removal are set by information theory, namely the Nyquist–Shannon sampling theorem.

The data we are collecting, or information, is prone to noise. We live in the 3rd dimensions and the complex plane consistently is interacting with our signals or data. Thus we use filters to help with noise cancellation. This is the basis of image processing and digital image reconstruction. The algorithms being created currently for photogrammetric filters are extremely vital for the future of 3D reconstruction. These filters will rely heavily on the field of complex analysis to build better filters. Then we will have very clean 3D reconstructions from our metrology practices. For all those who are intrigued, I will continue to explain different items within the 3D metrology field.

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What is Metrology Part 6: Perceptron

Perceptron

Perceptron (NASDAQ:PRCP) was founded in 1981 by graduates of The General Motors Institute (formerly GMI and now Kettering University). Working closely with the automotive industry, they analyzed and understood the damaging effects of process variation on complex product assembly operations and concluded that “a process which cannot be measured can never be effectively controlled or optimized.” Through revolutionary machine vision and pioneering engineering efforts, they created a unique and innovative measurement solution that not only allowed fast and efficient containment of quality problems as they occurred, but also provided the ability to proactively seek-out and reduce process variation. The result was groundbreaking – a 100%-dimensional measurement solution capable of being deployed in various manufacturing environments. They have continued to leverage industry expertise, global infrastructure, and comprehensive range of solutions to further penetrate the automotive, manufacturing, appliance, aerospace, and heavy machinery markets. Headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan, USA, Perceptron has subsidiary operations in Brazil, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Slovakia, Spain and the United Kingdom. Today we will do a brief look at their company as well as their metrology technology. 

Perceptron creates products based on an organization’s needs. Products of theirs include 3D machine vision solutions, robot guidance, coordinate measuring machines, laser scanning and advanced analysis software. Global automotive, aerospace and other manufacturing companies rely on Perceptron’s metrology solutions to assist in managing their complex manufacturing processes to improve quality, shorten product launch times and reduce costs. The customers of theirs include Nissan, Masserati, Whirlpool, Jeep, Land Rover, GM, Audi, Magna, Maserati, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, BMW, Ferrari, Chrysler, Jaguar, Ford, Hyundai, Lamborghini, and SEAT. They create non-contact sensors that use a high resolution camera and various laser colors to achieve reliable measurement on bare and painted metal, chrome, translucent materials, carbon fiber, and other materials at full production speed. All sensors are also calibrated and rectified at Perceptron’s headquarters and ship ready to measure. 

Some of their main products in terms of laser scanning and 3D metrology include the following:

  • Helix – evo
  • Helix – solo
  • V7

Helix – evo

The Helix- evo is a 3D scanning sensor that is optimized for in-line measurement. It does best in a manufacturing or on a plant floor. 

Helix – solo

Whereas the evo is meant to measure many measurements of a workpiece the Helix-solo only contour measures one. 

V7

The V7 is a device that integrates with other CMM machines. This 3D scanning tool enables reverse engineering, point cloud-to-CAD comparison, 3D visualization and inspection applications.

A key difference between Perceptron and other organizations previously analyzed within this metrology series is the fact that they are currently traded publicly as a company on the NYSE. The current stock price as I write this article for Perceptron (PRCP) is $4.39. I am not traditionally trained in analyzing companies and their SEC filing info, but for those who are inclined, I have attached the link to Perceptron’s filing here.

It is apparent that the majority of their sales seem to come from their general measurement solutions. The company is based on standard metrology, but 3D scanning solutions are not as large in terms of sales just yet. It is still a large amount of sales, but it is far away from being the main focus of this organization. This also may point towards the fact that 3D scanning is still in its infancy in some sense. Again, I am not a qualified financial expert, just giving an opinion based on my background. Would love to talk to someone with more knowledge. 

This concludes my basic analysis of Perceptron as an organization. After doing this, there are still a ton of questions and follow ups I will be doing. I am excited to be understanding the market of 3D scanning a bit more as this will be connected to the 3D printing field for a large amount of time. 

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What is Metrology Part 2: CMM

Image result for cmm

CMM

A CMM is a widely used machine used to measure objects. A CMM is a coordinate measuring machine. This refers to any machine that measures the geometry of physical objects by sensing discrete points on the surface of the object with a probe. This is the essence of many a metrology system. The precision of a CMM is vital for determining the geometry of objects. This then leads to more precision in the manufacturing and replication of objects. 

Probes are the engine of a CMM. They sense objects through their surfaces. There are various types of probes as well.  The types of probes used in CMMs include mechanical, optical, laser, and white light. Mechanical probes typically have a ball and rod looking setup attached to them, or have a nozzle setup. These physically touch the surface of a material that is in need of measuring. Optical probes typically refer to spectral analysis and measuring through these means. One can think of a fiber optic probe in particular. These type of probes are usually used in Raman spectroscopy, and diffuse reflection applications. Raman spectroscopy is a spectroscopic technique based on inelastic scattering of monochromatic light, usually from a laser source. Inelastic scattering means that the frequency of photons in monochromatic light changes upon interaction with a sample. The scattering of the photons within a monochromatic light source allows for a device to detect if an object is within the path of monochromatic light. This thus leads to measuring capabilities that are important in terms of a CMM as well. Diffuse reflection is similar to Raman Spectroscopy aside from the optical source is typically infrared. When an IR beam passes through a physical object, it can be reflected off the surface of a particle or be transmitted through a particle. The IR energy reflecting off the surface is typically lost. This transmission‐reflectance event can occur many times in the object, which increases the pathlength. This pathlength is vital for measuring. Finally, the scattered IR energy is collected by a spherical mirror that is focused onto the detector. The detected IR light is partially absorbed by particles of the object, collating the object information.

Image result for raman spectroscopy

Typical Raman Spectroscopy Setup

A CMM is heavily reliant on a built-in coordinate system of, typically, three axes. This is similar to the coordinate systems we are aware of within a 3D build environment. This is a Cartesian Coordinate system. The main structure of which includes three axes of motion. The material used to construct the moving frame has varied over the years. Granite and steel were used in the early CMM ‘s. Today the major CMM manufacturers tend to build frames from aluminium alloy or some derivative and also use ceramic to increase the stiffness of the Z axis for scanning applications. CMM axises need to be stiff because there should be minimal outside inference with forces that may misalign the device during measurement. Any misalignment will cause higher error ranges for measurement. 

Image result for cartesian coordinate system

Cartesian Coordinate System

Scanning techniques are becoming more reliant on data collection and compilation. These methods use either laser beams or white light that are projected against the surface of a part. Thousands of points can then be taken and used not only to check size and position but also to create a 3D image of the part also. This “point-cloud data” can then be transferred to CAD software to create a working 3D model of the part. The ability to hold various point cloud data from these methods is essential for the future development of the field. Big data is something of interest most definitely for this field. 

CMM’s are very interesting and are the basis of most metrology methods. It is important to understand how in-depth and fascinating this field is. It is a very vital one as well for the future in terms of 3D printing and manufacturing. Stay tuned for the next installment where we take a look into different subfields within Metrology as well.

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3D Printing News Briefs: May 16, 2019

We’ve got plenty of business news for you in today’s 3D Printing News Briefs, starting with Additive Manufacturing Technologies’ impressive growth as of late. ExOne has announced a collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and DigiFabster has announced several updates to its platform. Moving on to new product launches, Shining3D has a new industrial metrology system, and peel 3d introduced a new affordable 3D scanner.

Additive Manufacturing Technologies Showing Rapid Growth

L-R: Gavin Minton and David Manley

UK-based Additive Manufacturing Technologies (AMT) was founded in 2017 and is now emerging from semi-stealth mode and into full commercial production with its automated post-processing and finishing solutions for 3D printed parts. The company is showing rapid growth forecasts, and has been opening new US facilities, announcing partnerships, and hiring important personnel to help with its mission of providing the industry with industrial AM post-processing. AMT has made two important strategic additions to its Global Innovation Centre in Sheffield, appointing David Manley as Non-Executive Chairman and hiring Gavin Minton as the Aftersales and Customer Experience Manager.

“These are indeed exciting times at AMT as we aggressively market and sell our PostPro3D post-processing systems for AM parts having moved from the semi-stealth mode we have been operating in for a couple of years. We have been growing rapidly, but now we are moving to the next level — with our technology capabilities, our facilities and our brilliant team. We are really excited to welcome David and Gavin to AMT — they will be fundamental to our continued growth strategy,” said Joseph Crabtree, CEO at AMT.

“The post-processing step has long been the Achilles heel for AM as it moves to being a true mass manufacturing technology, and we are proud to offer our fully automated solution, which is already revolutionising the ways in which manufacturers integrate AM as a mass production tool. AMT is working in partnership with numerous OEMs, vendors and material suppliers to take the pain out of post-processing with an intelligent and collaborative approach, and we are scaling up production globally in order to share the progress we have made with our post-processing solutions. David and Gavin will join our team to provide key support in this mission.”

ExOne Announces Collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory

The ExOne Company, which manufactures 3D printers and provides 3D printing services to industrial customers, is collaborating with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) to continue advancements in binder jet 3D printing technology. Binder jetting is important because it offers lower operating costs, and maintains higher levels of productivity, than many other AM technologies, and ExOne is an industry leader in non-polymer binder jet 3D printing. Its collaboration with ORNL is targeted initially on developing technology for new binder jet systems, leveraging ORNL’s instrumentation and advanced data analysis methodologies, as well as the Department of Energy’s Manufacturing Demonstration Facility (MDF) at ORNL, in order to optimize chemistry and process parameters for its sand and metal systems.

“By collaborating with a world-class lab like Oak Ridge National Laboratory, we accelerate ExOne’s binder jetting technology capabilities,” said Rick Lucas, ExOne’s Chief Technology Officer. “We believe these collaborative efforts will effectively and efficiently result in the establishment of new materials, binders and process developments, retaining our significant edge over competitors and other technologies in the industrial manufacturing space.”

DigiFabster Announces Platform Updates

3D printing software and services provider DigiFabster, which uses its software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform to help companies easily automate and streamline certain business processes, announced that it had made several important enhancements to its platform this spring that will benefit many different types of users, including 3D printing service bureaus. The company has many customers who use HP’s Multi Jet Fusion technology, which accepts the 3MF file format, and DigiFabster’s platform now supports 3MF direct uploads through its web-based widget.

DigiFabster also enabled a new feature so that customers can accept purchase orders as a form of payment, and modified the code for its Floating button installation so that it can adapt to different screen widths. Another new capability makes it possible for CNC users, like machine shops, to easily change their pricing based on how complex the machine work is, and the DigiFabster system was also updated to automatically check for wall thickness, so that the files customers receive are ready.

SHINING 3D Launched New Metrology Products

Chinese 3D printing and digitizing company SHINING 3D recently attended the international Control trade fair for quality assurance, and released its latest industrial metrology solution at the event. Three products make up the portable system – the FreeTrak optical scanner, Freescan Trak 3D scanner, and FreeTrak Probe – which work separately and together to offer a comprehensive industrial scale measurement solution.

The versatile FreeTrak system of the wireless solution can capture the scanner structure’s spatial position in real time, and also allows the user to move the part, or tracker, during measurement without the results being compromised, which makes it perfect for use in unstable environments. The FreeTrak Probe, a portable CMM probing system created for use in industrial environments, is not “susceptible to environmental influences” like position changes and vibration, and can be used to generate highly accurate data even in challenging places. The FreeTrak system is now being integrated into SHINING 3D’s metrology and industrial solution ecosystem.

peel 3d Introduces Affordable 3D Scanner

Canadian 3D scanner developer peel 3d is on a mission to provide universal access to affordable, professional-grade 3D scanning technology. Located in Québec, the peel 3d team just launched the peel 2, a brand new variant of its peel 1 scanner that has three cameras instead of just one, for maximum accuracy, resolution, and realism. Powered by Creaform technology like its predecessor, the easy to use peel 2’s integrated color-capture functionality allows users to archive objects in high definition, as well as in their original colors, and monitor the accuracy and progress of the surface coloring. The new peel 2 also features new and improved peel 2.0 software with more functionalities, in addition to a system that uses a scanned object’s texture to improve its ability of positioning itself accurately in space.

“peel 2 pushes back all technical boundaries and redefines the concept of affordable 3D scanners,” stated François Leclerc, the head of the peel 3d initiative. “It will appeal as much to artists wishing to switch over to digital as it will to medical professionals wanting to scan the human body or mechanics working with existing components. It is by far the most comprehensive entry-level scanner on the market.”

The peel 2 is available for purchase online from peel 3d and select retailers for $7,490.

Discuss these stories and other 3D printing topics at 3DPrintBoard.com or share your thoughts in the Facebook comments below.

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3D Printing News Briefs: April 21, 2019

We’re beginning with an aerospace 3D printing story in 3D Printing News Briefs today, then moving on to news about some upcoming industry events and finishing with a little business. Launcher tested its 3D printed rocket engine on an important date in history. DuPont will be introducing new semi-crystalline 3D printing products at RAPID + TCT, and Nanofabrica has offered to 3D print micro parts at no cost for interested companies attending the annual euspen conference. Ira Green Inc. used Rize technology to transform its production process, GOM is now part of the Zeiss Group, and the Ivaldi Group received its ISO 9001:2015 certification.

Launcher Tests 3D Printed Rocket Engine

New York startup Launcher, which uses EOS technology to create 3D printed components for metal rocket engines, has completed many firing tests with these parts over the last year and a half. Recently, on the anniversary of the date the first human left Earth to go into space, the startup announced the results of the latest test.

Launcher’s founder and CEO Max Haot posted on his LinkedIn account that the E-1 copper bi-metal rocket engine, which was 3D printed on the EOS M290, broke the startup’s combustion pressure record at 625 psi, mr 2.5. It will be interesting to see how the engine performs on its next test.

DuPont to Introduce New Semi-Crystalline Materials 

At next month’s RAPID + TCT in Detroit, DuPont Transportation & Advanced Polymers (T&AP), a DowDuPont Specialty Products Division business, will be launching an expansion to its 3D printing portfolio: advanced, high-performance semi-crystalline materials, which will give customers more manufacturing agility and open new opportunities to lower costs while increasing production.

Jennifer L. Thompson, Ph.D., R&D programs manager for DuPont T&AP, will be presenting a technical paper about the materials during the event as part of the Material Development and Characterization session. During her presentation at 10:15 am on May 23rd, Thompson will discuss alternative 3D printing methods, like pellet extrusion modeling, in addition to highlighting new engineering materials and talking about tailored material testing programs. Thompson and other DuPont employees will be at DuPont T&AP’s booth #552 at RAPID to answer questions about the company’s 3D printing materials.

Nanofabrica Offers Free 3D Printing Services for euspen Attendees

Last month, Israeli 3D printing startup Nanofabrica announced the commercial launch of its micro resolution 3D printing platform. In order to show off the system’s abilities to potential customers, Nanofabrica has made an enticing offer to attendees at next month’s euspen conference and exhibition in Spain: the startup will print parts for interested companies at no charge. Then, the parts printed on the new micro AM platform will be presented to them at the event, which focuses on the latest technological developments that are growing innovation at the micron and sub-micron levels.

“It’s quite simple really. We believe that the best way to prove what our AM system can do, how high the resolution and accuracy of the parts we make are, is to manufacture parts for attendees,” Jon Donner, the CEO of Nanofabrica explained. “Registered attendees are welcome to send us their files, and we will examine and print them. That is how confident we are that you will be amazed by the capabilities of our system, and this we feel will mean that we can forge meaningful relationships with manufacturers that will endure into the future.”

Rize 3D Printing Transformed Company’s Production Process

Rhode Island-based IRA Green Inc. (IGI), a full-service manufacturer and distributor of unique uniform items earned and worn by military personnel around the world, recently turned to RIZE and its 3D printing capabilities in order to manufacture small fixtures for its tool shop. The company’s products are in high demand, but lead times were growing longer due to bottlenecks and 8 hours of work for each $300 fixture. Precision is also important for these parts, which is why IGI decided to turn to the RIZE ONE hybrid 3D printer. According to a new case study, IGI’s design team uses the printer every day to manufacture accurate fixtures in just 50 minutes for $2.00 a part. Using the RIZE ONE, which has the unique capability of adding ink markings to parts for verification, the company has been able to standardize its nails and molds, which helped lead to an ROI in less than five months.

IGI’s Manufacturing Manager, Bill Yehle said, “Implementing RIZE 3D printing as part of a strategic process shift has completely transformed our production process.

“We have realized an 80% time savings in setup and changeover alone using RIZE and virtually eliminated errors.”

ZEISS Group Acquires GOM

In an effort to expand its industrial metrology and quality assurance portfolio, the ZEISS Group, a technology enterprise operating in the optics and optoelectronics fields, has acquired GOM, which provides hardware and software for automated 3D coordinate measuring technology. By combining GOM’s optical 3D measuring technology with its own products, ZEISS could expand market access, and create new opportunities, for its Industrial Quality & Research segment. Once the transaction is complete, which should happen soon, GOM will become part of this ZEISS segment, while the legal form of its companies in Germany and elsewhere will stay the same. The financial details of the transaction will not be discussed publicly.

“Our growth strategy expressly mentions the targeted acquisition of highly innovative solutions, technologies and companies, which can reach their full potential as part of the ZEISS Group. By acquiring GOM and thereby expanding our solutions portfolio, we are bolstering the leading position of our Industrial Quality & Research segment and will be able to offer even better solutions for our customers. This is entirely in keeping with our corporate strategy, which is focused on our customers’ success,” said Dr. Michael Kaschke, President & CEO of ZEISS.

Ivaldi Group Awarded ISO 9001:2015 Certification

California startup Ivaldi Group, which uses 3D printing and metal fabrication solutions to provide in-port parts on-demand services for the maritime, mining, offshore, and construction industries has become ISO 9001:2015 certified in less than ten months. This standard, which is certifies quality managements systems that focus on customer satisfaction, continuous improvement, and active involvement of employees and management in a process-based approach, is the first step in the certification process that’s required to certify specific products. This proves Ivaldi’s commitment to constantly improving itself.

“Certifying our quality management system has helped us to structure our processes to create a solid foundation. This will allow us to improve efficiency, productivity, and traceability,” said Anna D’Alessio, Quality Management Specialist of Ivaldi Group. “Global quality management systems are important to align processes and optimize operations across facilities. This certification proves our commitment to meet requirements of stakeholders affected by our work.”

Discuss these stories and other 3D printing topics at 3DPrintBoard.com or share your thoughts in the Facebook comments below.

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Renishaw Using Metal 3D Printing to Create Custom Styli for Manufacturers

3D printed custom hollow titanium stylus, for REVO 5-axis inspection system

This past summer, Renishaw introduced a 3D printed version, made with its metal laser powder bed fusion technology, to its range of available styli. Now in the new year, the company is launching even more 3D printed styli, so its customers will be able to fabricate complex parts calls for more customized solutions.

Renishaw provides its customers with in-house styli solutions that are both complex and turnkey, and that have the capability of accessing part features that other styli can’t reach. By using flexible metal 3D printing technology to fabricate these custom components, project lead time can decrease. In addition, metal 3D printing can also be used to create parts and components with complex shapes and structures that could not be manufactured using more conventional methods, such as strong yet lightweight lattice structures and complicated geometry with internal structures.

Because Renishaw’s metal 3D printing can achieve such design flexibility, it can ensure repeatable metrology for its customers, and can create and customize 3D printed styli for all sorts of applications.

Customers can add female titanium threads (M2/M3/M4/M5) to fit any additional stylus from Renishaw, and gain more flexibility when it comes to accessing the critical features of a component by adding a curved, 3D printed stylus to its REVO 5-axis inspection system. Renishaw can also add on a larger tip to its styli with 3D printing, which is necessary for components with larger features.

Because it’s using 3D printing to fabricate its styli, Renishaw can achieve:

  • complex geometry – styli can meet access requirements for complicated parts
  • custom design – Renishaw designs and produces all its 3D printed styli in-house
  • design freedom – designing parts for end use, and not for inspection
  • highly accurate metrology – Renishaw uses metal 3D printing to achieve strong, lightweight structures with repeatable metrology results

Because it 3D prints all of its styli in-house, the company can ensure high quality and short lead times, so production won’t be held up. Additionally, 3D printed styli provide access to features that are unable to be reached with more traditional versions, meaning that parts won’t need to be designed for metrology access any longer.

Renishaw writes, “Disc styli are a solution for measuring large features on components, but designing them has been problematic in the past. The discs could only be manufactured in ceramic, which limited the sizes it was possible to produce. A custom AM stylus can provide a stiff and lightweight structure that can be manufactured to a larger diameter than a ceramic styli. A 100 mm titanium disc, with ground outer surface, designed and made by Renishaw, weighs just 13 grams, which means it can be fitted to the REVO multi-sensor platform. it provides a 70% reduction in weight compared with a conventional disc stylus of this size.”

3D printed 100 mm disc stylus

More measurement options are opened up with 3D printed custom styli for metrology applications, as the technology, as previously mentioned, can produce more complex shapes that allow inspection of features that were not accessible before now. Renishaw’s 3D printed styli are even more flexible, as they’re designed to “heighten the capability of the REVO® 5-axis CMM multi-sensor platform.”

By combining the flexibility of 3D printing and the REVO multi-sensor platform, manufacturers can enjoy greater part design freedom. To take advantage of all these benefits, check out Renishaw’s comprehensive custom design services for metrology.

Discuss this story and other 3D printing topics at 3DPrintBoard.com or share your thoughts in the Facebook comments below.

[Source: Renishaw]

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3DPrint.com The Year in Review: 3D Printing 2018

2018 was a very exciting year in 3D Printing. If we look at the big trends we can see the rise of startups with tens of millions in investment, market entry by multibillion-dollar companies especially polymer companies and increased automation. In the background, we can see the very public fading of the desktop printer on every desktop dream but the new realization that 3D printing might be suited for manufacturing. Overall 2018 was a year of professionalization with everyone focusing on higher-end products and end-use applications. And 2018 was the year of centers for excellence for 3D printing. The Starbucks of our world.

For 3DPrint.com there was a shakeup in our pantheon of writers, renewed long-term partnerships with industry leaders and a focus on quality. With higher quality articles, fact-checking, more analysis and scrutiny we seem to have become less popular with certain companies. But, the higher quality seems to appeal to those who count, our readers. They’ve repeatably reached out to us to give us feedback and thank us for our new path. Our pageviews and unique visitors have also increased substantially during the period validating our approach. In tandem we have found new advertisers and industry partners who appreciate this new more difficult but more rewarding path. For this and your continued support, we’d like to thank you for a fantastic year in 2018.

Below is a selection of our news over these past months. We couldn’t possibly expect to filter out the most significant news items because this would be subjective. Instead, we’ve made a selection out of our most popular news stories and those that were very important or those that were oft-recurring or indicative of bigger trends and movements in our industry. Is your story missing? Maybe I forgot it! Add it below in the comments.

January

A happy GE Engineer (lets hope that PPE becomes a trend in 2019)

GE Engineers learn, iterate and grow through 3D printing.

The year started with Sciaky reporting record metal 3D printer sales for the previous month. This would be a leitmotiv for the year with metal sales, investment and commercialization exploding. This year ten times more industrial metal printers were sold than a few years ago.

3D Systems and Stryker partner for surgical planning, a growing area.

The RegenHU Biofactory, sterile 3D printing inside a laminar flow cabinet. Cray cray.

Bioprinting promoted in the US by RegenHU and Wako.

Auroralabs partner and they’re not the last to partner this year.

February

Addidas and Carbon print shoes.

Stoke med reports advances in patient-specific models. Patient-specific medical applications were on the rise throughout the year with patient-specific solutions being developed in polymers and metals for ortho but also things such as braces.

(photo credit: NASA)

NASA tests 3D printed RS engines.

BASF partners with Farsoon and BigRep. Materials giant BASF is investing heavily in 3D Printing. Through investments in Materialise and partnerships with Farsoon and other OEMs the company wants to place itself in the driving seat of materials development and learning. Meanwhile, many other materials companies are piling in.

March 

Small-scale rockets developed for NASA. Rocketry and 3D printing for space was a huge interest area for us this year. 3D Printing lowers the development cost of new space vehicles and rockets. A lot of work is being done in part count reduction and weight savings on rocket propulsion specifically.

Hero with arm

Openbionics introduces the Hero arm. Open source hardware and 3D printing for medical orthoses and the like has been developing quickly as has Openbionics.

Hot Lithography, kind of like stereolithography but then hawt.

E3D develops tool head changer print head. The ever-innovative E3D folks made a tool head changing 3D printer, an idea that everyone had but no one got around to doing.

Wipro opens a 3D printing research center. Research centers were a trend as is the fast-growing Indian 3D printing market.

Chinese researchers use SLM Solutions machines to build nuclear components. China is making higher quality parts and products and this kind of research is a good signifier of that happening in our industry as well.

GKN develops new steel for automotive applications.  Two megatrends the car industry and metal printing intertwined.

Open source desktop bioprinter released by Carnegie Mellon. So far open source and DIY bioprinters have not made a lot of impact yet but this could greatly reduce the costs of bioprinting.

Raise introduces Pro 2 3D printers. Raise and others are making higher quality higher value printers with features such as cameras and build chamber temperature control this is an example of the third wave of 3D printing companies that are focusing on user experience.

Casual nerd photoshoots have been on the increase thanks to 3D printing.

Aon 3D prints with high-temperature materials. PEEK, PEI and high-temperature materials were a trend as were the high-temperature 3D printers to process them.

April 

The US Naval Air Systems command predicts over a 1000 flying parts by years end.

Note that all present are wearing glasses or safety glasses

Sandia works on wind turbines. Sandia has played an outsized role in the development of 3D printing and now is moving more to large format applications.

Jabil introduces a manufacturing network. Large companies trying to engage with 3D printing is a definite trend as is Jabil’s fundamental approach to adopting 3D printing internally.

Cellulose used as 3D printing material. Cellulose was explored a few times this year but was part of a much bigger sustainability trend.

4D printing self-folding objects is also something that persists.

“I’d never leave you not for Jessica or that cute Aon guy”

DSM partners with Ultimaker and introduces materials. Yet another large material company entering the market in a strong way.

ANSYS introduces new simulation tools for 3D printing. ANSYS and Materialise both were hard at work releasing simulation software to speed up 3D printing workflows.

The Orion Spacecraft uses Stratasys Antero 800NA (PEKK) to make an intricately-connected 3D printed docking hatch door. Note the photo in the center with the earthrise on it.

Stratasys makes parts for the Orion spacecraft. Polymers in space? Yes we can.

Stratasys introduces PEI and Carbon Fiber optimized systems and expanded software. Stratasys spent a lot of time optimizing its systems for particular end use parts and applications while expanding GrabCAD.

EOS makes a machine for Boeing.

May 

SABIC introduces new materials, another huge company expanding in 3D printing.

Biomodex and Intamsys get funding. Financing was all around this year especially for companies with business to business propositions.

Concrete houses to be 3D printed. Much of the 3D printed concrete news this year was lies, fraudulent or overclaim. If you noticed that we skipped a lot of concrete 3D printing stories, then it was because they were false. This one we verified but we still don’t know if it will work.

Solukon releases depowdering machine. Post-processing equipment to optimize 3D printing for manufacturing was a huge trend this year.

HP Shows off Multi Jet Fusion. HP’s market entry and continued investments are huge news and changing our industry.

Singapore researchers looking to recycle thermosets. Improving thermosets was a big trend as was continued investment and research in Singapore that wishes to be a 3D printing focal point.

“Well yeah honey the Aon guy is cute, but I’m more a resin kind of woman.”

Formlabs introduces ceramic resins. This Formlabs development combines a trend in expanded desktop materials with that of more functional resins and that of expanded use of ceramics in 3D printing.

Titomic partners with Fincantieri. The marine sector is almost totally unexplored in 3D printing but the first real moves are happening this year.

(L-R) Dr. Steve Swioklo with Prof. Che Connon as cornea is 3D printed.

Bioink used to 3D print corneas. The development of bioinks and their expanding uses was a huge trend as well.

June 

Soft robot uses shape memory. I’m a huge fan of soft robotics and think that it will change many things. Research in this area is growing.

Olivier van Herpt introduces porcelain. Olivier’s highly productive ceramic printer continues to innovate outpacing the rest.

Lawrence Livermore prints a nuclear warhead. This has been going on for over a decade but its nice of them to share.

3Doodler announces new 3D printing pen. We don’t always write about 3D printing pens but millions are in the hands of consumers.

FIT and Roboze expand globally. Service bureau stalwart FIT and new player Robooze expand across the world a huge trend of expanding partnerships, resellers and offices happened this year.

Mantis shrimp inspires composite materials. Bioinspired designs were huge this year as were 3D printing composites.

Henkel and LPW expand facilities showing us real investment in thermosets and metal powders.

A postal company opens a 3D printing portal thanks to 3Yourmind. New market-entry by new kinds of players and alternatives to Materialise software are also significant trends.

July 

Soft robots zigzag through sand.

This 3D printed origami fish catching device story was huge for us and encapsulates using folding in real life applications.

3D print astronauts in space, what could be cooler than that?

3D printed guns were huge this year in the media but not really in real life. So we stood against it.

3D microstructure printed on MEMS actuators. [Image: Rachael Jayne and Alice White, Boston University]

Femtoprint, nanoprinting, and microfluidics will build into a huge technological development over the coming decade.

BASF also took a strategic investment in Materialise and we wondered what it meant.

There were many companies doing space-related deals at aviation shows such as RUAG and Additive Industries.

3D Printing circuits was also a burgeoning thing in 2018.

Drones were big as was using 3D printing for agriculture this story unites both.

Victrex made new PAEK materials available.

A Master’s Degree in 3D Printing? Lots of education initiatives exploded in 2018.

Printrbot closed its doors which shocked many.

3D printed bones? Lots of articles. Lattice structures? Our very own Despacito. 3D printed bone lattice structures? Hell’s yeah.

August 

Nothing ever happens in August.

Satellites printed and made more lightweight were a recurring theme.

I read an awful lot of fatigue response articles in 2018.

Shapercrunch is part of a trend whereby 3D printing startups are not only in the states or Europe.

Using 3D scanning and 3D printing in museums grew a lot.

DigitalAlloys says surprise and comes out of nowhere with a new 3D printing technology.

A few years ago 3D printing chocolate was a surefire winner in terms of traffic. In 2018? Guns or 3D printing coral reefs.

Carbon nanotubes are probably a health risk.

A stator ring and impeller by Velo3D

Velo3D came out of nowhere with an exciting new metal technology.

Lots of companies are working on controlling the 3D printing octagon eg controlling all of the variables including software and procedures to get better 3D printing results.

Research in hydrogel composites exploded in 2018.

We looked at where all of this 3D printing research is coming from.

Flexible thermosets/photopolymers were all the rage as well.

September 

Metrology, QA and parts measurement were quickly growing activities.

With Xaar joining the fray, the hype around binder jetting metal 2018 could be the year of the inkjet.

Minifactory makes a capable large expensive open FDM machine capable of PEEK and PEI. Spurned on by automotive and aerospace that is a real trend.

Kai Witter of Dyemansion talks costs and uses actual numbers to determine how effective their post-processing equipment is.

Everyone is always trying to control this unruly melt pool.

Dyze Design is part of a new group of specialized nozzle design and manufacturing companies that aim to challenge the status quo.

Resin from Prusa.

Lots of people wanted to 3D print silicone and ACEO spread to the US.

AddUp spins out of Michelin and starts to gobble up the French 3D printing industry.

3DHubs killed off its hubs, focuses on B2B, still confuses me.

Evolve additive spins out of Stratasys.

3DGence makes a capable high-end desktop machine.

HP to make metal 3D printers.

As Desktop Metal expands.

All that glitters is probably gold nanoparticles.

Knitting was big as was concrete.

Twikit and BMW offer mass customization together.

Biodegradable medical devices such as stents were a trend.

Carpenter bought LPW postioning it for growth in high-end powder.

Consultants? 3D Printing Consultants, everywhere.

Nscrypt brought some truly amazing ideas and performance to market in bioprinting and electronics.

Xjet built an applications center to roll out its technology globally.

The Goldilocks choice faced by metal printing companies.

Using a MIG welder for a metal printer is about as low cost as we can imagine it.

November

Qualifying aerospace brackets, a multi multi million dollar priority for many.

This hybrid open die forging and DMLS technology still blows us away.

Electrically conductive filament printed on desktop machines was happening a lot.

Bioassemblybot wants to use contour printing to print directly onto people.

Spare parts for my washing machine? Finally. Collective mic drop, we’re done now.

In-cabin 3D printing for aviation was growing.

Happily, there was more research into the air quality of 3D printing.

3D printing meat and other foods was growing but will explode in 2019.

Essentium was another well-financed startup with a highly productive technology.

The AutoAdd project showed us that car manufacturing and 3D printing can be a reality.

LSS’s new Airbus based sintering technology showcases the minitrend that 3D printing maintenance companies are providing innovation in sintering.

Additive Industries partners with Volkswagen.

Solvay marks another company joining our industry in force.

December

Another episode in the resurgence of sintering service organizations in 2018 is the EOS Integra machine made completely separately of all the other EOS machines.

Sadly 3D printing and the law, especially IP law was an issue this year.

Charged aerosol focusing is an interesting technology.

Operational studies and research on real parts was a growing area.

Breast cancer and cancer research using 3D printing was also a trend.

The Fraunhofer sisters did some truly amazing research this year including this.

In secret 3D printing antennae is a huge business but now people are doing public research into the area.

GE makes a big investment in 3D printing in Australia.

Optomec expands vertically in gas turbines.

Autodesk makes a large toolbox.

I hope that you’ve had a wonderful 3D printing year and wish you another!