Original Date: 05/12/1997
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

(equipment: Precision Engineering Measurement System software)
In the early 1970s, most machine alignments were performed manually by using mechanical instruments. Computerized data acquisition had limited applications, and alignment quality depended on the skill of the operator. To improve alignment quality and eliminate inconsistent practices during machine runoff testing, Cincinnati Milacron’s Machine Tool Group (MTG) developed the Automatic Test System™ (ATS) primarily for its Maxim machine runoff.

As a computerized measurement system, the ATS performs quick, accurate alignments of machining centers and enforces consistent runoff procedures. The system can detect geometric errors in the roll, pitch, and yaw of axes as well as straightness, squareness and positioning errors. The ATS uses a Pentium Processor and Precision Engineering Measurement System (PEMS) software. This Windows-based software was developed in-house using Visual Basic. The on-line help feature gives precise steps for checking and correcting machine alignments, and the PEMS software provides visual changes in geometric errors.

The ATS maximizes the accuracy of the alignment and improves the overall quality of the process. The PEMS software can adapt to new machine types and provide detailed information on each test performed through easy bookkeeping capabilities. By using the ATS and the PEMS software, Cincinnati Milacron has reduced alignment time from 30 to 8 hours per machine.

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