(Blum-Novotest: Grünkraut, Germany) -- Blum-Novotest, a leading supplier of innovative and high-quality measuring and testing technology, will present several product highlights for automating machining processes at IMTS 2024 in Chicago, Booth 134710, McCormick Place, East Building, Sept. 9–14, 2024.

Visitors can learn more about FormControl X measuring and automation software with integrated approach and alignment functions, LC-Vision measuring and visualization software for quick analysis and data evaluation, and twin technologies for simultaneous operation of two Blum tool or workpiece probes with only one radio receiver. Blum will also give an IMTS conference presentation on Sept. 11 about the importance of measuring in automation with the goal to produce as many good parts as possible in the shortest possible time.

The highlight this year will be the FormControl X measuring and automation software, which can be seen in action on a Fanuc Robodrill D21MiB5 at the Blum booth. FormControl X is an efficient solution for operations using machine-integrated quality control of workpieces in series production. It enables automated monitoring of machining processes aligned with the principles of SPC. The process is managed based on the recorded measured values and previously defined warning and control limits.

To ensure that this also works perfectly in unmanned operation and in cooperation with robot solutions, FormControl X offers an integrated approach with its alignment function. This feature detects the current workpiece position and alignment right after clamping and automatically adjusts the reference points of the machining program to the actual position of the workpiece. This also makes possible automated machining of parts with small allowances. FormControl X prepares the recorded data in graphic form. It can then be visualized and evaluated by the user using the web browsers of any end devices. FormControl X accelerates manufacturing processes and makes them more transparent, and the quality and manufacturing costs of the finished workpieces are optimized.

Blum-Novotest will be presenting a session at the IMTS 2024 Conference, called “How measuring systems greatly improve speed and accuracy in machining automation,” on Sept. 11, 2024, at 10 a.m., in Room W194-A. Join Casey Walters, national sales manager, and Lilian Barraud, who will review how precision in-process tool and workpiece measurement play an essential role in unmanned production. The combination of lasers, probes, and software enables companies to deliver accuracy, speed, and communication in real time under adverse shop conditions.

To ensure productivity, it’s critical that tools be monitored during unmanned production to detect tool breakage, wear, or damage to the tool-cutting edges. A laser system can help prevent scrap material by providing automatic corrections or by replacing the damaged tool with a sister tool. Manufacturing automation can help companies streamline their processes to produce more products at a faster rate and at a lower cost.

The second software solution that Blum will present is the latest version of LC-VISION measuring and visualization software. The application, which was developed specially for the laser measurement systems from Blum, has been adapted even more closely to the needs of users. For instance, the free standard scope has been expanded to include ToolControl and Stability functions. ToolControl is an intuitive application that even users without NC programming knowledge can use to quickly and easily generate measuring sequences for common measuring tasks. The user can visualize measuring sequences for tool length and radius, including tool-specific wear limits, directly on the control screen and take appropriate action. The stability function is used to determine the thermally stable spindle state for high-precision machining. If a machine is in the warm-up phase, the spindle elongation is measured at speed, and the length value in the tool memory is updated after the thermally stable state is reached. For ambitious measuring tasks, there are also optional technology cycles available, such as ToolControl Advanced or SpindleControl.

The third highlight of the show, the new TWIN technology, makes it possible to simultaneously operate two Blum tool or workpiece probes with only one radio receiver. This technology is mainly used in dual-spindle machines, whereby a cycle-time reduction of up to 50% can be achieved by omitting a second probing movement. The BRC technology used ensures secure transmission, and no line of sight to the receiver is required.

TWIN technology