PlyMatch™ detailed description
The PlyMatch™ system uses a smart digital camera for acquiring a live video image. The position and direction of the digital camera in space are obtained with a Coordinate-Measuring Machine (CMM) of high-specification. This CMM, as supplied with PlyMatch, can be used totally independently to ply placement, for unrelated coordinate measurement tasks, using a wireless probe, thus offering added value to this investment.
The digital camera coordinates and the live video image from the camera are both fed continuously to a computer, via suitable interfaces. By using the digital camera coordinates, the supplied Placement software application (or the Laminate Tools software application where available) draws the computer-generated image of the fabric ply to be stacked next in sequence, in a way that it matches the image of the "real world" as seen through the camera. The computer-generated image of the ply is drawn superimposed onto the live video image from the camera, giving a virtual-reality compound picture (also known as "augmented reality").
The operator observes the computer screen and aligns the actual ply with its image as drawn by the software:
Note that the camera can be moved at all times, ensuring the best viewpoint for the operator, matching his/her angle of view, and observing the component from all directions. As the camera is moved, the coordinate-measurement system continuously updates the camera's position to the computer software so that the computer-drawn image follows the changes in the video image. If necessary, a complete video recording of the layup operation may be obtained on hard disk, showing any possible deviations from nominal ply position, or even fibre orientation.
Also note that the system can potentially be used to locate any manufacturing or assembly-sequence feature, such as inserts, bolt holes or labels.
Sample SCREEN views:
(for illustration only, actual specification may vary)
The PlyMatch™ System is available in flexible configurations to suit the requirements of every end-user. As a minimum, it includes:
- PC with suitable display,
- Placement software,
- Laminate Tools software extensions for video and probe interfaces and image blending,
- Digital camera with boom stand,
- Coordinate Measuring Machine with wireless and tool reference probes,
- On-site training.
Customer Testimonial:
"PlyMatch increases productivity and quality of our racing car with minimum design overhead.
Indeed PlyMatch revolutionised our conventional templating process by increasing accuracy with minimum set up time.
In addition, by positioning accurately core relief and inserts on very complex shapes, it allows us to reduce size and save weight."
© 2010 Anaglyph Ltd, International Patent Pending
