Data collection applications based on Mitutoyo micrometers

- One computer to simultaneously operate multiple micrometers for measurement and automatically collect data wirelessly

Whether driven by the needs of SPC, quality analysis and improvement, or customer requirements, measuring workpiece dimensions is a routine task for quality management personnel in actual production processes. Although there are many instruments for dimensional measurement, digital micrometers and calipers are favored by enterprises due to their ease of use and controllable costs. However, the efficiency of measurement data collection has remained relatively low.

In the past, because many measuring instruments lacked data output interfaces, data acquisition was particularly cumbersome. Data could only be recorded by hand on pre-printed paper forms or entered via keyboard into Excel spreadsheets. This approach had many drawbacks: it was not only inefficient and highly prone to errors, but also raised concerns about measurement data being perceived as tampered with. Furthermore, data recorded on paper forms was difficult to preserve long-term and analyze effectively, while data scattered across different spreadsheets also posed significant inconveniences for effective integration and analysis. Fortunately, many modern measuring instruments now feature digital displays and direct measurement data output capabilities, greatly facilitating data acquisition. This helps us significantly improve the efficiency of measurement and data collection, and digitized data provides endless possibilities for subsequent data analysis.

Taking a commonly used Japanese Mitutoyo (Mitutoyo) digital micrometer as an example, this micrometer, like many others, features a data output interface. Mitutoyo digital micrometers are typically equipped with a SPC data interface, which can be connected to a computer via dedicated cables and converters. We can use a single cable and converter (with a data switch) to connect a single micrometer to the computer's communication interface (usually a serial data interface). By using the data switch on the converter, and based on the QuAInS professional data collection platform, we can directly transmit measurement values to the computer. Meanwhile, the QuAInS data collection platform automatically matches corresponding attribute information to these measurement data (such as parameter names, product numbers, operators, and measurement times) and uploads this complete information to the quality data center.

Data communication cables

More commonly, to fully improve operator efficiency and resource utilization, multiplexers (such as Mitutoyo's 264-002) can be used to connect multiple digital micrometers to the same computer simultaneously. This allows operators to measure with multiple micrometers and automatically collect data by operating a single computer. The QuAInS data collection platform can automatically identify which micrometer the measurement data comes from and match the data with corresponding parameter names, product names, part numbers, etc. Currently, it directly supports over one hundred types of measuring instruments.

However, purchasing converters with data switches is costly, and the data switches often fail after prolonged use and pressing. Replacing or repairing converters not only disrupts normal measurements but also incurs time and economic costs. QuAInS has researched and solved these problems by replacing the converter with a small micro switch and developing specific functions. The benefits of using a micro switch are at least threefold: First, it directly eliminates the cost of purchasing converters with data switches. Second, wiring based on the micro switch is flexible, allowing installation in positions easy for operators to access, reducing wasted motion and making the measurement process more efficient and lean. Third, the micro switch is extremely low-cost and very easy to replace.

We simply need to cut the original cable connecting the micrometer to the computer (or multiplexer), modify the internal wires according to specific rules, and connect the micro data switch to the modified cable. After connecting to the QuAInS data collection platform and configuring the settings, we can begin measurement. For each measurement, we simply press the nearby micro switch, and the data is automatically and completely uploaded to the data center, stored centrally alongside data from other measuring instruments.

The benefits of centralized data storage include extremely convenient data query and retrieval. With appropriate permissions, users can easily access any required data for further analysis. Additionally, centralized storage facilitates permission control, ensuring that correct data is accessed only by authorized users at the right time, thereby effectively guaranteeing data security.

New Product Recommendation:

WDU-MS Wireless Communication System

General Information:
• The WDU-MS system provides computer-assisted, cable-free measurement by replacing cables
Radio transmission establishes the connection between the measuring device and the interface box or PC. According to
environmental conditions, you can operate in open areas with a range of approximately 80 meters. 10 meters - 15M
in a hall
• All measuring devices in the system currently feature a Digimatic interface and default OptoRS232
interface and are suitable for Mahr EX 16 calipers or compatible measuring devices (for devices with RS232C)
interface request). You can operate up to 99 measuring devices simultaneously in the system.
A number is assigned to each measuring device, allowing you to identify individual measurement values
correctly. (Using receiver version 1.xx and sender version 1.xx, 2.xx, or 3.xx, you can only operate eight
measuring devices)
• The system consists of a receiver directly connected to the PC and at least one additional receiver.
Transmitter, which is directly connected to the measuring device. Transfer of measurements
is triggered by pressing the data button on the measuring device or transmitter (depending on
the type of measuring device). The transmission of measured values from the receiver to the PC can be configured via a
Interface with MUX10, MUX50 or Bobe command sets must be correctly evaluated by the PC
software.
• RF settings are: (1) 868, 300MHz; (2) 869, 750MHz; (3) 869, 2625MHz; (4) 869, 800MHz
or (5) 869, 925MHz. The nameplate indicates the frequency used by your system. Ensure that only devices
operating on the same frequency work together, and that no foreign devices transmit signals on this frequency
within 300 meters nearby. Otherwise, data transmission may experience issues.

If you are still concerned about data logging and processing for multiple digital micrometers, please contact Weidou Intelligent Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. Thank you.