Control quality with real-time inline metrology

By Staff Report April 7, 2025 6:25 pm IST

Real-time quality control systems drive high efficiency through digital transformation, allowing for the detailed 3D measurements of a part within moments and making precise data accessible to the entire team, regardless of location. Uday DIXIT, General Manager of PolyWorks India, discusses the latest advancements in inline metrology and real-time quality control systems.

Manufacturing and engineering environments require consistent product quality. The latest advancements in real-time quality control systems drive high efficiency through digital transformation. Imagine capturing detailed 3D measurements of a part and, within moments, making that precise data accessible to your entire team, regardless of location. This capability is revolutionising how companies approach quality control and real-time decision-making.

Digital Twin Technology

Digital twin technology, combined with an innovative data management system like the PolyWorks|DataLoop™ system, can handle vast amounts of measurement data. These measurement projects are processed and managed with essential metadata, which serves as the system’s backbone so that every data point is easily traceable and provides a comprehensive view of each measured part.

PolyWorks|DataLoop™ allows users to search extensive datasets and instantly access any measured part using various criteria, such as part number, description, measurement date, operator, or measuring system used. With metadata-driven search capabilities, users can quickly locate and review specific dimensional measurements. Best of all, this information is accessible via a standard web browser, ensuring availability to authorised users anytime, anywhere.

Streamlining collaboration and decision-making

Once 3D measurement results are reviewed, collaboration becomes seamless. Team members can be tagged directly within the project’s discussion thread, enabling them to provide instructions, approvals, or rejections without relying on separate communication channels like email. This integrated approach simplifies collaboration while keeping all project-related communication and data secure and centralised.

The result is a streamlined workflow where decisions are made faster, with greater accuracy, and with all project information readily accessible. This digital transformation in real-time quality control isn’t just about improving accuracy and speed—it’s about fostering a connected, efficient, and collaborative environment that drives continuous improvement and success.

Metrology’s role in reducing waste

A robust Inspection Data Management system, like the PolyWorks|DataLoop™ system, helps inspection data transform from a historical record into a powerful tool for proactive decision-making. It provides a comprehensive view of manufacturing trends, enabling manufacturers to identify and address potential issues before they escalate. By analysing inspection data patterns, the system detects deviations in critical parameters and delivers early warnings of impending tolerance breaches. This data-driven approach helps manufacturers make informed real-time adjustments for consistent quality and prevent the production of non-compliant parts. This minimises the waste and reduces lead times.

Data is a powerful tool for manufacturers striving to achieve operational excellence. This breakthrough dramatically accelerates quality control processes, and manufacturers can make informed decisions faster than ever.

Insights with advanced analytics

The flexibility of the PolyWorks|DataLoop™ system further enhances its value. Users can create unlimited customisable widgets within a dashboard to monitor various parameters. Additionally, 3D measurement results can be fed directly into popular data analysis platforms like Tableau, Power BI, or Excel, unlocking deeper insights and detailed reporting. Manufacturers can uncover trends and drive continuous improvement and innovation on the shop floor by integrating inspection data with advanced analytics.