Test Software includes machine history feature.
Press Release Summary:
Ballbar v5.05 provides users with historic review function that allows variations in performance of each machine to be displayed graphically. Feature also predicts maintenance requirements in advance. It includes text notes at key points for future reference and allows users to rescale graphs and print or paste them into other Windows® applications. Programmable warning and failure limits enable automatic interpretation of ballbar test results.
Original Press Release:
New Ballbar 5.05 Software Adds Machine History Feature and Increases Capability of Renishaw's QC10 Ballbar System
Test History enables complete "medical record" on the machine for monitoring machine performance, while programmable performance limits enable automatic interpretation of ballbar test results
September 2004 - New version 5.05 of Renishaw's Ballbar 5 software significantly extends the power of the QC10 ballbar test by adding a historic review function and machine performance acceptance limits. Historic review allows variations in the performance of each machine to be displayed graphically. Users can now clearly see how any of the machine performance characteristics measured by the ballbar, (e.g. ISO230-4 circular and radial deviations, positional tolerance, squareness, backlash etc.) has varied over a period of time.
In short, Test History compiles a complete ballbar "medical record" for the machine. It gives users these capabilities for monitoring and optimizing machine performance:
· See how machine performance is degrading with use
· Predict maintenance requirements in advance to reduce unscheduled downtime
· See exactly what's changed due to a machine crash; so you can pinpoint corrective maintenance
· See the effects of maintenance and service adjustments as they are carried out
· Review machine history to spot recurring problems, and the effectiveness of previous fixes
· Include text notes at key points for future reference
· Rescale graphs to reveal detail, and then print or paste into other Windows® applications
Another major addition is the ability to set warning and failure limits on any of the machine characteristics measured by the QC10 ballbar. Once set, these limits are used to instantly check the results of every ballbar test as it is carried out.
The software allows you to:
· Set individual Warning and Failure performance limits for each machine
· Get instant notification, during the ballbar test, if a machine's performance exceeds these limits
· Separate Warning and Failure limits allow graded response (schedule maintenance or shutdown)
· Ensure greater quality control since test results interpretation can be made fully automatic
A new report has also been added to provide a detailed record of the test equipment used for each test. This improves traceability and satisfies auditors' requirements.
Ballbar 5 is a Windows® based package (compatible with Windows® 95, 98, 2000, NT4 or ME) with familiar and easy-to-use on-screen graphics, test file "folders" for specific machines and customized test templates. All of these encourage regular and repeatable machine testing. With alternative report formats, easy-to-use QC10 ballbar equipment and the speed of testing (often less than 10 minutes per machine), the system justifies its claim to be the most powerful and flexible diagnostic tool available.
With an increasing number of equipment manufacturers, service companies and machine tool end-users recognizing the unique advantages of the Renishaw QC10 ballbar the new software can only increase its appeal. The software is available at no extra cost with new QC10 ballbar systems, or as a low-cost upgrade for users of existing systems.
For further information, contact Clive Warren, Calibration Products, Renishaw Inc., 5277 Trillium Blvd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60192. Tel: 847/286-9953. Fax: clive.warren@renishaw.com
For a detailed look at other productivity enhancements for metrology, linear and rotary position feedback, and machine tool calibration, visit Renishaw's web site at: www.renishaw.com
Inquiries should be directed to:
Susan Wilm
Marketing Assistant
Renishaw Inc.
5277 Trillium Blvd.
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
