(Hexagon Metrology: North Kingstown, RI) -- Hexagon Metrology has launched PC-DMIS 2012, the popular metrology software. PC-DMIS focuses on the collection, evaluation, management, and presentation of manufacturing data to reduce scrap, improve throughput, reduce costs, and build lean manufacturing operations. Hexagon will demonstrate PC-DMIS 2012 with more than 100 software enhancements in booth E-5202 at the 2012 International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS), taking place Sept. 10–15, 2012, at Chicago’s McCormick Place.

PC-DMIS 2012 rolls out ClearanceCube, a new feature that eliminates potential collisions of part and probe. ClearanceCube attaches a protective virtual envelope around the part being measured and guides the probe to avoid that area. The software automatically completes all safety moves so the operator can simply box-select a group of features, then use the Path Optimizer feature to determine the most effective path. Most important, ClearanceCube is assigned to the selected feature, not the plan, which simplifies additions and changes to the inspection routine.

When inspection data are imported into CAD, PC-DMIS 2012 has the ability to “remember” the current translation of assembled components, so the CAD file does not need to be repositioned. Revisions to the CAD file prompt the Change Manager to highlight those design changes automatically. Another enhancement is Measurement Strategies for AutoFeatures. Users can now scan planes, circles, cylinders, and cones directly from the AutoFeature dialog box with automatic setting of speed, point density, and filtering parameters.

Sortable Features is another addition to the user interface, which provides a fast and easy way to search features by ID, type, program sequence, or time in various dialog boxes. The Summary Mode enhancement adds intelligent, color-coded and symbolic text to avoid the time spent sorting through an inspection report for dimensional compliance. Specialized options are also available for customers with an Optiv vision system or those involved in the inspection of blades.

“PC-DMIS 2012 is built around measurement-plan efficiency for greater productivity,” says Ken Woodbine, president of Hexagon’s PC-DMIS software division. “With more than 100 software enhancements, PC-DMIS moves far beyond run-of-the-mill inspection functionality, with automation and customization capabilities that anticipate and solve real-world product development and quality control issues.”

PC-DMIS 2012 is available for download for software maintenance agreement holders here.