Description
Markforged Inspection provides an automated solution for quality control in additive manufacturing, acting as an "autopilot" for the production process. It integrates laser scanning directly into the printing workflow, allowing for real-time inspection as parts are being built. This seamless connection between part design, production, and quality control is a key component of the Digital Forge Complete Advanced Plan.
The process is designed to be intuitive: Configure, Scan, and Inspect. Users can define global scan resolutions and specify critical features requiring higher detail. The on-board laser micrometer scans interior and exterior features during printing. Once printing concludes, key features are measured to verify compliance with requirements, enabling parts to be used immediately upon completion. This eliminates the traditional need for time-consuming and expensive post-print inspections that often require specialized equipment and expertise.
Inspection facilitates the delivery of precise, compliant parts at a reduced cost and accelerated pace. The system also captures process control data, ensuring traceability by recording who printed the parts, when, and with which printer and software version. This enhances accountability and quality assurance. Print failure detection is another critical capability; inspection-enabled devices can identify print failures and automatically pause the process for user review, minimizing material waste and production downtime.
The benefits extend to ease of use, with an intuitive workflow within Eiger™ and autonomous scanning making part inspection accessible to all users. Rich data visualization is provided through heat maps and point cloud visualizations, offering quick snapshots of part accuracy or detailed measurements. Customizable scan reports with clear pass/fail analysis are automatically generated, aiding documentation and traceability. Compliance is simplified, and the overall process streamlines quality assurance for additive manufacturing operations.
Key Takeaways
Automated laser scanning during printing
Real-time quality control integration
Seamless connection of design, production, and inspection
Immediate part usability post-print
Reduced cost and faster delivery of precision parts
Process control data for traceability
Print failure detection and automatic pausing
Intuitive workflow within Eiger™
Autonomous scanning capabilities
Rich data visualization (heat maps, point clouds)
Customizable scan reports with pass/fail analysis
Available on X3™, X5™, X7™, and FX10™ Industrial printers
Included in the Digital Forge Complete Advanced Plan
What This Case Study Demonstrates
- Automated Quality Control
- Rapid Prototyping
- Production Part Verification
- Traceability and Documentation
- Failure Detection
- Cost Reduction
