A large volume metrology process model for integrating design and manufacturing

To deal with the increasing challenges faced in large volume manufacturing and assembly industries, a generic methodology is developed which integrates metrology process models, design evaluation and assembly planning. This paper describes the specification of a novel, theoretical framework for the metrology process models, especially focusing on large volume, frameless metrology that is suitable for the verification of large and complex products. The process modelling framework has four generic sections that support early design evaluation, assembly process interface, setup and deployment, and verification data management. A system is proposed to realize the metrology process model in digital manufacturing environment by four stages. Initial testing results of first stage, using aerospace products, demonstrated the effectiveness of the process modelling methods.