Title

Flow length measurement of injection molded spirals using a flatbed scanner

Abstract

This paper describes the potential of using flatbed scanners for a wide variety of dimensional measurements critical in the manufacturing of parts. A detailed example is presented on the measurement of thermoplastic spiral specimens. Some researchers use a spiral mold as a benchmark to assess the flow optimization of injection-molded thermoplastics. The spiral's length is critical in determining optimization algorithms that control the temperature, pressure, and speed of injection. This paper describes a new method developed for the precise measurement of these molded spiral lengths using a common flatbed scanner and AutoCAD software. The researchers compared measurements taken with a flatbed scanner to that of a profile projector through a gage repeatability and reproducibility (GR&R) study. Results of the study showed that flatbed scanners can be used to measure objects to an acceptable level of repeatability and reproducibility.

Department(s)

Technology and Construction Management

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-1-2011

Journal Title

Journal of Industrial Technology

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