Standard Thermal Equilibration Protocols for Non Rigid Polymer Metrology
Precision metrology of non-rigid polymers mandates volumetric thermal soak cycles matched to material diffusivity to eliminate dimensional heat error.
Non Rigid Polymer Metrology
Meaning
Process of measuring the dimensions of flexible plastic and elastomer components without inducing deformation requires specialized fixture and probe strategies. Standard coordinate metrology can fail when applied to non rigid polymer metrology due to the force of the measurement probe bending the part. This field of inspection employs non-contact scanning or low-force touch probes.
Part Support
Flexible parts must be supported in a way that mimics their final assembled state. This is achieved using precision holding fixtures that distribute the part weight evenly. These fixtures prevent gravity from distorting the measurement.
Force Minimization
Optical systems such as structured light scanners are preferred because they exert zero physical force on the specimen. When tactile probes must be used, they operate with touch forces below ten millinewtons, which prevents the sensor from pushing into the soft surface of the polymer and creating a false measurement valley. This prevention of deflection is required for accurate data, as even a micrometer of deflection can cause a part to fail its dimensional audit.
Data Alignment
Computer models align the scan data with the reference CAD model using best-fit algorithms. This step accounts for the natural flexing of the material. This alignment ensures the dimensional deviations are calculated accurately.