EZ-IO Software for Equator

Renishaw's new EZ-IO software for the Equator Flexible Gauge makes it easy for automation integrators to configure communications between Equator systems and a cell controller. EZ-IO software allows intelligent functions, such as automatic re-mastering when the Equator detects a change in shop floor temperature, then directing a robot or shuttle system to load the master part into the gauge.

EZ-IO includes the Process Monitor display, which provides a chart of the history of feature measurements, an invaluable feature for controlling manufacturing processes. The history shows a graphical view of proportion of tolerance for each feature. It also enables management of the mastering process according to temperature, time or number of parts measured.

The low-cost programmable Equator system is capable of high-speed comparative gauging for inline inspection of high-volume manufactured parts. It can switch between parts in seconds, making it ideal for flexible manufacturing processes or accepting parts from multiple machines. Its ability to use both touch-point and high-speed form scanning probes allows the Equator to perform the quickest possible inspection routines for any given part and featur, for a fraction of the cost of single-purpose hard gauges, according to the company.

Equator uses the principle of mastering to cope with changes in shop-floor temperature. Master parts do not need to be expensive or custom made; users can simply take a production part and measure it in any number of ways, such as on a calibrated coordinate measuring machine (CMM) in a temperature-controlled environment. This measurement establishes the variation of the master part from the CAD or drawing nominals.

The calibrated absolute accuracy of the CMM or other devices can be effectively "extended" onto the shop floor to provide calibrated traceability to Equator measurements. With the calibration data for the master part loaded into the Equator software, measurements then made on the Equator gauge can be referred back to the CAD or drawing nominals for traceability to a calibrated device.

Supported by a turnkey installation service and global support network, Equator systems are installed in multiple automotive, aerospace, medical and electronic companies around the world. Renishaw's extensive network of Equator support engineers allows projects that are initiated in one country or region to be easily transferred and locally supported in multiple locations. There are more than 70 regional support offices, and multiple approved partners, in all industrialized areas of the world.