Automated Capability Testing

Reliable, Quick Measurement for Performance and Capability

BTI equipment has unparalleled performance and capability testing tools built in. When prompted, these tools permit the equipment to automatically execute testing protocols to verify the performance of both the equipment and parts. Whether it’s spin-to-spin repeatability, gage R&R, or CpK results, our software takes the guesswork out of part and machine performance and capability. Although these tools are available on most all BTI equipment, highly automated machines are more equipped to automate the testing process.

To make part and machine performance issues easier to isolate, BTI has built in many modes of operation that allow problems to be quickly identified and resolved. Some of the modes of operation include Continuous Spin, Start-Stop, Chuck-Unchuck, Chuck-Unchuck Lift and Lower, and Chuck-UnChuck with Part Transfer.

BTI’s software allows you to automatically save the results directly to the machine’s hard drive. You can also save it to a filename and path on your network, or you can save it to a flash drive or external hard drive. The data is saved in a .csv (spreadsheet) format, so it can be easily imported into Excel, Minitab, DIAdem by LabVIEW, AQDEF, or STAT by SAS. You can also connect the machine to a high-speed Internet connection and enable BTI to connect remotely to view the results.

Modes of Operation for Isolating Problems

When a capability number disappoints, the question is always whether it is the part, the tooling, the machine or the operation. BTI builds in operating modes that let you separate them:

• Continuous Spin — machine and measurement repeatability with nothing else changing
• Start-Stop — adds acceleration and braking back in
• Chuck-Unchuck — isolates tooling and clamping repeatability
• Chuck-Unchuck Lift and Lower — adds part seating
• Chuck-Unchuck with Part Transfer — the full automated handling cycle

Running the same part through this sequence usually points straight at the contributor, instead of leaving repeatability as a single unexplained figure.

Studies the Machine Runs Itself

When prompted, the equipment executes testing protocols and reports spin-to-spin repeatability, Gage R&R and CpK. Results save automatically to the machine’s drive and can be exported for your qualification records. The tools are available on most BTI equipment; highly automated machines can automate more of the sequence because they handle the part themselves.

Masters and Certified Weights

Capability testing is only as good as its reference. Machines ship with production balance masters — a customer part with a hardened and ground insert and precision holes for certified test weights, supplied with certifications in a fitted case — so studies are traceable to a known unbalance rather than to a previous reading.

Related

• Statistics and production data — the SPC outputs these studies feed
• Superior quality — calibration and factory acceptance
• In-house measurement and testing services — part evaluation when the part is the variable

Contact BTI to discuss capability requirements and acceptance criteria.