Original Date: 10/14/1988
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. (BHTI) is utilizing computer assisted theodolites to accurately measure difficult surface geometry. The TOMCAT 2000 coordinate analyzing theodolite system is a portable measuring system. Two or more systems can be used to measure complex geometries with a single setup. The system is menu driven and provides step-by- step instructions to guide the operator through each operation. Target data can be manually entered from the system keyboard or downloaded from a CAD file. The system is capable of storing eight different coordinate systems at the same time to allow the operator to set coordinate systems for aircraft, tool, or part, and switch between them as required.

The system includes an analysis module to allow the operator to evaluate geometry and compare data files. The operator can also combine files if necessary to gain more detailed information about the part or tool. BHTI has used the system to reverse engineer existing parts and build a CAD file for final design definition. The system has proven to be accurate and quick and has provided a significant reduction in time required for tool and part verification.

Expansion of the usage of the theodolite system will allow for periodic inspection of tools and gauges, assistance in part assembly, verification of complex contours, and eventually for gaugeless tooling.

For more information see the Point of Contact for this survey.