In today's increasingly sophisticated precision manufacturing industry, the precision requirements for micro cutting tools in fields such as electronics, tool and mold manufacturing, and medical technology have entered the "nano era". However, the smaller the tool, the greater the challenge - especially how to achieve stable and high-precision quality inspection, which is crucial for precision manufacturing.

　　
WALTER's latest HELICHECK NANO measuring machine is designed to address the pain points in this industry. Recently, Mr. Bernd Schwennig, Strategic Product Manager of WALTER Measurement Technology, was interviewed and shared the innovative story behind this groundbreaking measuring machine from a professional perspective.

Mr. Schwennig, what was the original intention behind developing HELICHECK NANO?

Bernd Schwennig

Nowadays, whether in the fields of medical technology, electronics, or tool/mold manufacturing, many industries are using extremely small diameter cutting tools. Manufacturing such cutting tools not only requires special production processes, but also relies on corresponding measurement techniques. So far, there has been a lack of reliable and efficient solutions for measuring such cutting tools in the global market. The existing system is inadequate in terms of resolution, stability, and operability. HELICHECK NANO was developed to meet this urgent need.

What are the breakthrough innovations of HELICHECK NANO compared to previous solutions?

Bernd Schwennig

It is the world's first measuring machine specifically designed for micro - and nano scale cutting tools. The diameter measurement range of HELICHECK NANO covers 0.1mm to 16mm. It uses microscope sensing technology with transmission light magnifications of 50x and 400x. Even the smallest geometric shapes can be captured and evaluated with high precision. For example, the measurement repeatability within the diameter range is better than 0.5 μ m. These measurement results are identical to those of HELICHECK PLUS and have received high praise from numerous customers over the years.

　　
The processing of incident light images has been innovated. Through a fully automated microscope turret, the system can automatically select lenses to ensure image quality even in extremely small evaluation areas. In addition, the new high-resolution camera chip provides more pixels for evaluation, significantly improving measurement accuracy and evaluation stability.

The new visual evaluation area display function provides the best support for operators during the setup process. Once the measurement program is set, it can run independently of the operator and automatically, which is highly favored by users.

Does HELICHECK NANO need to be equipped with the latest software?

Bernd Schwennig

HELICHECK NANO is the first device in the WALTER measuring machine series to be equipped with the UNITED GRINDING C.O.R.E. operating system. Its advantage is that existing and future C.O.R.E. applications can be seamlessly used without the need for additional adaptation. HELICHECK NANO's software is also developed based on a 64 bit environment.

The operation mode of its core measurement software is consistent with the proven WALTER METROLOGY CENTER, which has been applied to all WALTER measurement equipment for many years. Therefore, users familiar with our measuring machines almost do not require additional training.

This measuring function can be integrated into existing databases, facilitating tool data management and achieving unified quality assurance throughout the entire process from raw materials to mass production. In addition, the standard configuration includes comprehensive tool quality documentation, supporting printed versions and file transfer formats. Users can also choose to provide measurement results through the OPC-UA protocol.

Does HELICHECK NANO require a dedicated fixture system?

Bernd Schwennig

The concentricity of small diameter cutting tools is crucial for accurate measurement. For this purpose, we have developed a brand new hydraulic fixture system. It can directly achieve micrometer level fine adjustment of concentricity within the jacket, creating stable conditions for repeatable high-precision measurements.

Is HELICHECK NANO suitable for automated processes?

Bernd Schwennig

Of course. Like other WALTER measuring machines, HELICHECK NANO can also achieve fully automated operation. It can be achieved through standard loading interfaces or seamlessly integrated into the new ATP (Automated Tool Production) system - the tested tools are automatically transported by autonomous mobile robots (AMR) to the measurement unit for fully automatic measurement. For customers who pursue the highest quality standards, this means achieving 100% quality assurance through 100% measurement and recording.

So far, how has user feedback been?

Bernd Schwennig

User feedback is generally very positive. Its excellent image quality, stable measurement results, and intuitive operating experience are particularly praised. The brand new fixture system has also received high praise. Many users believe that this measuring machine is an essential and powerful supplement, especially in the field of measuring extremely small diameter cutting tools. HELICHECK NANO is the answer to the increasing precision and quality requirements, especially for micro diameter cutting tools.

　　
Starting from the micro level, promoting manufacturing accuracy through technological innovation - HELICHECK NANO is not only another breakthrough in WALTER's measurement technology, but also a powerful interpretation of "micrometer level accuracy".

If you are committed to microfabrication

Precision manufacturing or quality management,

Why not delve deeper into this measuring machine,

It will bring new possibilities to the quality of your cutting tools.