Accuracy of the New Method of Alignment of Workpiece Using Structural-Light 3D Scanner

This paper presents a new method of aligning workpieces for machining by means of optical measurements followed by the results of verification tests of this method. The overview of modern assessment methods of irregularly shaped blanks are discussed in this study, with particular emphasis on cast iron castings, as well as on problems related to their positioning and fixing for machining. A flowchart of the proposed method and its verification results in industrial conditions are also presented. The essence of the method is based on the comparison of two spatial models: a designed workpiece model and the actual model of a casting produced with a coordinate measuring technique. A series of six iron castings were tested. The obtained results indicate that the errors caused by locating amounted to a maximum of 2 mm (average 0.5 mm) and were three times lower than actual machining allowances. This points to the correctness of the developed method and the great potential for its industrial application. Additionally, a method for improving locating accuracy by modifying the shape of the retaining pin is presented.