Zygo Introduces In-Process Metrology Tool
6 September 2000
Zygo Corporation Introduces Breakthrough In-Process Metrology Tool for Precision Automotive Parts and Assemblies
MIDDLEFIELD, Conn.--Sept. 6, 2000--Zygo Corporation , a world leader in interferometric measuring equipment, today introduced a breakthrough in-process metrology tool at the International Manufacturing Technology Show and Manufacturing Conference (IMTS).
The Simetra FTP(TM) is the world's first 3D optical interferometer for in-process verification of geometric dimensions and tolerances (GD&T) of precision-engineered parts. The Simetra FTP(TM) captures thousands of three-dimensional data points to compare measured values to GD&T targets in a few seconds, enabling automotive and truck parts manufacturers to improve the quality of their parts and assemblies while lowering production costs. These improvements will increase fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance safety and reliability.
Large fuel injector manufacturers in need of leading-edge production technology have placed the first orders for the system. Beta evaluations have demonstrated rapid part sorting with unsurpassed gauge repeatability and reproducibility; leading to significantly reduced scrap and unusually fast payback -- in as little time as several months.
The Simetra FTP(TM) is Zygo Corporation's latest offering in a series of products designed for the industrial market, including the NewView(TM), MESA(TM), and GPI(TM). The Simetra product line is specifically designed for factory-floor installation and automation. Initially targeted for the automotive industry, the Simetra FTP(TM) optical technology also promises enhanced production yield for telecommunication, semiconductor, and data storage industries. Volume shipments of the Simetra FTP(TM) will commence in the first half of 2001.
"Based upon initial tests on customers' parts, we expect the Simetra(TM) product line to have a tremendous impact on production throughputs," commented Randy Young, product marketing manager. "Assemblies perform better when the critical parts have been measured accurately and with high data density. The beauty of the Simetra(TM) is that our customers can get simultaneous 3D flatness, thickness, and parallelism results, with several times better gauge performance, in the same amount of time as getting minimal data from prior metrology. This performance is ideal for precision sorting, a critical step on the assembly line. The Simetra(TM) will play a major role in enabling manufacturers to meet the next generation fuel efficiency and emissions requirements."