Automatic vision system for high-contrast view of plastic mouldings optimises efficiency

Miles Platts, a designer and manufacturer of precision technical mouldings, has invested in a Starrett AVR300 automated CNC vision system – supplied by Optimax, a provider of intelligent systems and solutions for industrial metrology and inspection – to help it produce over 8 million units per month.

Miles Platts specialises in the provision of high-precision, tight-tolerance mouldings in engineering polymers often with zero or minimum draft. The company has expertise in coil bobbins and electrical insulation solutions for a variety of industries, each with unique measurement requirements. With long-term experience in the use of vision systems, Miles Platts required an automated solution that would allow it to increase efficiency, volume of output and meet the highest level of quality assurance.

The company turned to its long-standing metrology partner, Optimax. After a thorough review of the company’s requirements, Miles Platts invested in a Starrett AVR300 CNC vision system to meet its demands of accuracy, reliability and versatility.

Digital CNC solution solves the problem

Miles Platts’ capability studies alone demand numerous precise measurements of 50 + parts – so the repeatability and speed of the AVR300 presents a clear return on investment. Facilitated by 3D measuring software, Quality Manager Jonathan Fraser explains its transformative impact: “This powerful feature allows me to pre-program the automated measurement of specific parts, giving capability for measurements by shop floor staff without need for training.”

Furthermore, with Optimax’s UKAS-accredited service and calibration support, he is confident that the AVR300 will continue to optimise the full supply chain process without over-burdening the quality control department. The UKAS-accredited calibration ensures accuracy by providing a true understanding of the measurement uncertainty. This global standard is accepted across industry sectors and export markets.

The AVR300 stood out to Miles Platts due to its versatility, an essential feature for a manufacturer meeting the differing requirements of numerous sectors.

Automotive projects

Jonathan Fraser says that, for automotive projects, the AVR300 is essential not only for initial sample inspector reports but throughout the production part approval process. Black, white and clear plastics mouldings can be particularly challenging to inspect and measure optically. The precision lens and lighting options create high contrast on surface, edge and blind hole features. Miles Platts was impressed by
the accuracy of the Starrett Vision range, with capability to measure optical height and depth down to a few microns.

“The AVR300 is everything we needed in one machine,” he states. “It’s invaluable for ensuring part conformance to meet sector requirements.”

Notably, professional reporting outputs allow templates to be easily created, exported and sent to customers, saving time and ensuring accuracy.