IMS Function Gantry CMM Application in Automobile Chassis Mold Inspection

The application of gantry-type coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) with IMS functionality is critical for the inspection of automobile chassis molds. In automotive manufacturing, these molds are fundamental for body stamping and parts formation, significantly affecting overall vehicle quality and assembly efficiency. Due to the substantial size and intricate surfaces of automobile molds, traditional bridge-type CMMs often prove insufficient. Gantry-type CMMs, with their unique structural design and performance capabilities, are therefore the optimal equipment for this inspection task.

1.Customer Demand

Guangdong Fuqiang Technology Co., Ltd. recently acquired a high-speed, high-precision gantry CMM with IMS Function from IMS Group to enhance inspection services for their large automotive molds. Their specific requirements include completing mold core measurements within four hours, with a feature point accuracy of 0.01mm. The selected CMM, featuring a 2000x3000x3000mm design size, is equipped with an IMS-PH10T fully automatic measuring head (capable of optical scanning probe integration) and IMS-DMIS CAD++ intelligent measurement software. Offline programming is utilized to generate and optimize measurement programs.

2. Measurement Process

2.1. Import the automobile chassis mold's 3D digital model (STEP or IGS format) into the measurement software. Segment the mold core's four sides and establish a workpiece coordinate system using the 3-2-1 method, aligning it with the digital model.

2.2. A systematic approach is employed for coordinate system establishment, comprising three key phases:

(1) Initial coordinate system setup, defining the workpiece's position within the 3D space;

(2) Precise coordinate system construction, achieved through the accurate measurement of reference elements to minimize measurement uncertainty;

(3) Coordinate system verification, involving error analysis of the reference elements to confirm accuracy. Critical mold features, including the parting surface (the interface for mold component separation), product surface (glue surface, defining product shape), collision positions (alignment features), and insertion positions (ensuring part matching accuracy), are measured using vector points.

2.3. Execute the measurement routine and generate a comprehensive measurement report.

3. Measurement Results

The inspection was completed within two hours, identifying three areas on the product surface (glue surface) that exceeded design tolerances. Despite these deviations, the overall mold acceptance was qualified, resulting in significant time savings and reduced mold trial costs for the customer.

The integration of gantry-type coordinate measuring machines in automobile mold inspection represents a crucial synergy between precision measurement technology and industry needs. The IMS Function gantry CMM, with its extended stroke, multi-sensor capabilities, and intelligent analysis, effectively addressed Fuqiang Technology's measurement challenges. Moreover, it facilitated data-driven, refined management throughout the mold's lifecycle. As body accuracy requirements for new energy vehicles continue to advance (e.g., integrated die-casting mold inspection), the IMS Function gantry CMM is poised to capture a larger market share and support the high-quality development of the new energy vehicle sector.