Hexagon's METRICAL Automates CMM Part Handling and Queuing

Automated Solution for Inspection Bottlenecks

Hexagon has introduced METRICAL, an automated queuing and part-handling system designed to enable autonomous operation of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). The solution targets a critical manufacturing constraint: the shortage of skilled inspection personnel combined with demands for higher throughput.

METRICAL automates the loading, measurement, and unloading of parts across all sizes, allowing CMMs to operate continuously with minimal human intervention. The system integrates with both Hexagon's newest CMM models, including the MAESTRO, and existing GLOBAL CMM installations, enabling manufacturers to add automation to already-deployed equipment.

Why It Matters

Inspection has become a production bottleneck as manufacturers struggle to find qualified metrology staff while facing pressure for 24/7 operations. By automating repetitive part handling, METRICAL allows skilled operators to focus on higher-value activities like programming and analysis rather than manual loading tasks. This shift addresses both the labor shortage and the need to maximize expensive CMM capacity.

Continuous Operation Across Shifts

The system supports multi-shift workflows by queuing parts for automated measurement cycles. According to Jörg Deller, Vice President Product Technology Hardware for Division Stationary Metrology at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, inspection teams currently balance high-value metrology work with repetitive manual tasks. METRICAL removes that constraint by enabling more continuous measurement with minimal oversight.

Manufacturers can run unattended inspection operations during off-shifts, increasing overall CMM utilization and equipment effectiveness while improving workforce safety by reducing repetitive handling.

Scalable Configuration Options

METRICAL is available in three configurations with three, five, or seven preparation bays. This modular approach allows manufacturers to match automation capacity to production volumes and scale incrementally as demand changes. The system supports rapid deployment without lengthy integration cycles, enabling facilities to begin automated inspection shortly after installation.

Reconfiguration for new parts is simplified through modular fixturing, allowing manufacturers to adapt to evolving production requirements without complex reprogramming.

Dashboard-Based Control

The system includes visual software with dashboard monitoring that provides real-time visibility into production status. The interface simplifies task setup and inspection scheduling, enabling teams to optimize CMM workflow efficiency and utilization across shifts and product variants.

By reducing idle time between measurement cycles, METRICAL converts previously unproductive periods into active inspection capacity while maintaining quality standards.

These details were first reported by Automation Watch.