FACE TO FACE
The Planar P150.35 measurement system with SurfScan , AOI and OptiScan 3D .
GAV software .
With this product , geared towards manual operations , we are leveraging our technology expertise to create more of a productionfocused asset than a metrology tool . This represents a change in our technical focus .
ISMR : What , in your view , are important industry trends , challenges and areas of growth / opportunities ? How are you responding to these ?
North America and China continue to be key markets . However , we are also very focused on growing our market share in Europe . Our partnership with TRUMPF is an important element in our growth strategy .
We have an extremely full order book so optimizing our production processes and supply chain is a key focus internally . This will also help to offset some of the price increases caused by the high inflation we are all experiencing .
As previously mentioned , we have a strong focus on R & D . Our technical focus has concentrated on developing two new technologies to bring to market . The first is an extension of our Opti-Scan 3D product range . We have developed a 3D scanner with a larger two-metre field of view and turntable , the OS2000.35 . This unit has a 4K projector and a 65MP monochromatic camera . Feedback from our distributors and customers globally indicated that a 2m-wide automated 3D inspection system will meet the needs of a much larger segment of the sheet-metal industry than our current 1m-wide unit .
Our other development is quite different to our current product range . It is a guidance and verification system ( GAV ). Many suppliers do small production runs for their customers . Welding is one example . Even if a robotic welding system was available , the programming skill and time could not be justified for a small production run that may only be ordered a few times a year , possibly with revision changes .
We have developed a machine-learning
system that can watch an operator perform a manual task in 2D / 3D . As the task is performed it learns each step of the task by scanning the work areas in 3D . Each step can then be played back later to guide a new or less experienced operator . The system uses augmented reality projections to indicate the next step to take . Then , as the operator performs each step , the system verifies this step by scanning the work area to ensure that the step has been performed correctly . For example , has the bracket been attached upside down or on the wrong side ? Has a screw been missed etc .?
JA : Anything which can reduce scrap , automate production or at least reduce the skill levels required in production is of critical importance . Building the profile of the sheetmetal industry and manufacturing in general as an attractive career choice is also key .
We will continue to develop technology which helps sheet-metal manufacturers in these key areas , providing them with valuable products and services . We have also been involved in initiatives with local schools and universities to raise the profile of the manufacturing industry and bring it to the attention of younger generations .
ISMR : Are there any products / technologies / services that you have released or are releasing this year ( including for EuroBLECH 2022 ) that you would like to discuss ?
JA : Apart from the OS2000 and GAV systems , we also recently released a new option for our
InspecVision is a TRUMPF partner .