OPTICAL LASER SCANNING
Different materials call for different
measuring techniques. The unique three-
dimensional diamond quilted leather inserts
in the doors and rear quarter panels of the
Flying Spur cannot be measured by a tactile
device becauseto touch the surface would
distort the reading. Instead, an optical laser
scanner is used to chart and check the
precise contours of each diamond.
The cabin of the Flying Spur posed a
fresh challenge, because of the range of
functionality built in for every seat. The rear
seats alone offer 14-way adjustment, five
massaging modes and the two outer seats
are both heated and ventilated. Everything
from the seamless fit of the one-piece
Measuring and enforcing
the highest standards of
dimensional accuracy is
especially important for
a vehicle, where multiple
components become sub-
assemblies.
headlining, wood trim and sumptuous
leather upholstery depends upon achieving
close tolerances between a variety of
different materials, from wood and metal to
fabric and leather.
PRECISE TEMPERATURE CONTROL
Materials expand when warm and
shrink when cold, so it’s essential that
measurements are taken at a consistent
reference temperature. Within the
Metrology area, air conditioning keeps the
area at a steady 20°C. But for components
that demand the highest levels of precision,
there’s an inner sanctum called the High
Accuracy Measurement area, where a
dedicated climate control system ensures
that the temperature never deviates by
more than half a degree Celsius. Within this
area are three gigantic granite blocks to
which components can be clamped for the
ultimate in stability, essential for an accurate
reading. But first, the components to be
measured have to soak in the atmosphere
–literally. “A large component like an engine
block might have to soak at a consistent
temperature for up to a week, so we can be
sure that it’s 20°C all the way to the core”
explains Stockdale.
AN UNSEEN CONTRIBUTION
Visitors to Crewe will never visit the
Metrology department, nor will the owner of
a Flying Spur, Continental GT or Bentayga
ever be able to point to the handiwork of its
team in their vehicles. Yet the way a Bentley
looks, performs and lasts owes everything
to the accuracy with which each of its
components measures up to the ideal. And
for that, the Metrology team are the hidden
heroes, custodians of the continuing quest
for dimensional perfection. Every Bentley
that leaves the factory is a tribute to their
unseen contribution.
For further information, please visit www.bentleymotors.com
Issue 44 PECM
73