The first automobiles were amazing machines, introduced and improved over the years by various manufacturing entrepreneurs throughout the United States and Europe. For the part, these early “horseless carriages” were built individually and were affordable only to the very wealthy. They could have been more reliable. However, with the advent of the moving assembly line popularized by Henry Ford, the once fledgling automobile industry was truly revolutionized. Utilizing the assembly line manufacturing process, Ford became the champion of mass production. Each Model-T from his factory was built with identical, interchangeable parts.
Measurement: The Key to Production Success
What was the key to Ford’s success? It was measurement, specifically the standardization of the measurement of the individual parts, that made up his Model-T. By employing the practice of standardized measurement, Ford experienced lower production costs, improved product quality, and the ability to produce a vehicle that could be offered to the masses at an affordable price. Thanks to standardized measurement, ordinary men, women, and children were introduced almost overnight to a new and exciting mode of travel.
Today, accurate, standardized measurements in production are an even greater priority for success, and not just for the automotive industry. In fact, an entire industry has grown up around the scientific study of measurement, also known as metrology, and how it can improve overall business outcomes. Here are four solid reasons why accurate measurements are a priority.
Product Quality
There are many industries that require extreme adherence to tight tolerances–medical, pharmaceutical, and aerospace to name a few. Even the slightest deviation from required tolerances can have devastating effects, so there is little room for error. Specialized coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and sophisticated probing tools have been designed to accurately analyze and measure the 3D geometry of physical objects which can be compared to original designs to ensure conformance.
Because of the importance of measuring and analyzation tools in various industries, there are also dedicated suppliers that partner with these industries to offer quick turnaround delivery of such equipment. Companies offer precision measuring tools, machine tool probing systems, CMMs and CMM parts, and more.
Waste Reduction
Accurate measurements are used to help manufacturers determine the exact amounts of materials to use in their processes. As a result, little goes to waste, and production runs are extremely accurate. This lowers the cost of production resulting in lower prices to the consumer or additional capital that can be invested elsewhere.
Improved Efficiency
When accurate measurements are taken throughout the process and machines are programmed to meet standardized specifications, manufacturers can make large numbers of parts in shorter periods of time and feel confident that they will be consistently the same. Measurement machines and related equipment also significantly improve quality control and quality assurance efforts by providing manufacturers with statistical data and analysis.
Allows for Global Cooperation and Collaboration
The industry has become increasingly globalized. In today’s markets, part of a final product may be manufactured in one state or country, another somewhere halfway across the world. By employing standardized measurements in all processes, manufacturers can ensure that parts will fit together seamlessly no matter where they are made. In addition, metrology fosters global scientific research as precise, accurate, and consistent measurements speak a language all their own.
Published By: Aize Perez
