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A key area dealing with the application of measuring systems is process documentation. We use a variety of
hardware and software to support this effort. However, there is no substitute for process knowledge. We work with
folks to get a clear understanding of the processes, help to get them documented and then go after suitable measuring devices that will work with in the process environment and integrate into their system.
We currently use a Sony DCR-TRV103 Camcorder which is capable of both analog and digital recording and
transfer to digital files via firewire. It can shoot in low light and even dark with it’s infrared capability. The 360X zoom is a real plus in some difficult to access manufacturing processes.
For stills and some simple video, we use a Kodak Z710. It is a good blend for the type of work we do. It has a
decent lens with 10X zoom. The 7 megapixel image can tolerate a lot of cropping and still yield good images, particularly for electronic formats.  The macro feature makes it good for those close up shots. Here are some
examples of the capabilities.
Let’s say we are trying to show checking requirements or gauging requirements for a piece of equipment. We would
likely start with a view of the unit at a normal view in the environment of use.
We might then need to show a close-up shot of the area of inspection or measurement. In this case, the tape drive
mechanism at the top of the image
The macro capability allows a severe close-up while still keeping the excellent optical clarity that would normally be
lost by taking a long shot with high zoom.  The idea is that the same apparent size of the image has a large number
of pixels, allowing further clarity and digital zooming. So these shots show the macro, with a software zoom at high magnification of the small rivet - which might be a critical inspection point.
For software we utilize AutocadLT, Microsoft Office components (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Access), Visio for flow
documentation and other interfaces, Corel Draw with Photopaint are the main image editing tools. We hope to move to Macromedia products, such as Flash in the near future.
The general sequence of development typically involves:
Interviews with production operators and direct supervision
Review existing documentation and SOP for formats
Process Walkthrough, with video if possible
Media Plan
Still Photos
Process Flowchart
Confirmation Step with Company
Detail Interview with Operators
Draft Preparation
Confirmation Step with Company
Final Process Definition
Review of Control Plan, PFMEA, MSA
Assist with modifications of Control Plan, PFMEA, MSA
Measuring device recommendations
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