Design Solutions - Summer 2013 - (Page 49)

The two principal types of 3D digital measurement are: (1) photography-based, and (2) laser-based. Both systems used the power of modern small computers to translate what they “see” into both engineering drawings and computer numerically controlled (CNC) machining data. The photography-based systems allow the field technician to define the planes, angles, and curves with target disks. Taking photographs from a variety of vantage points, and always remembering to get every target in at least two photos, a record of the existing conditions is made. The photos are all fed into the measuring software on the woodworker’s computer. The program triangulates the target points with great precision, and creates a three-dimensional digital representation of the site. The laser-based systems work in much the same way. The added bonus of a laser is the ability to measure and record surfaces which are difficult to reach such as balconies, high soffits, or a stage proscenium. The laser operator can see what the laser sees on a portable laptop computer or tablet, and can often control the laser from there as well. Like the photos, the laser data is fed into a sophisticated computer program and a threedimensional drawing is produced. These drawings can be rotated and manipulated by the project engineer to create the path the final woodwork needs to match. In an integrated system the data from the measuring program can be translated to the CNC machining centers. Complex curves and angles are quickly and accurately cut by the machines. They are then crafted in the shop to join and finish the components for delivery and assembly on the job. The work on the job site goes more smoothly, and somewhat more rapidly, because the elements arrive with very tight tolerances. In years past a fine finish carpenter would custom fit the woodwork by scribing extra wood to fit the profiles of the finished wall or floor. Nothing can match the craftsmanship of a fine hand on the job. By using digital measurement and manufacturing the time spent in hand work is usually reduced, speeding the completion of the project. This sophisticated manufacturing comes with a cost, of course. Just as the architect has invested in CAD stations, and just as the contractor has invested in digital project records, the woodwork manufacturer is investing in both the 3D measurement systems and the CNC machinery which takes advantage of it. While we all know the job usually goes to the low bidder, when working on complex projects the benefits of awarding work to the lowest qualified bidder, or negotiating the work with AWI firms in whom you have confidence is the way to go. Asking about the capabilites of the shop to make use of digital solutions can be an important part of the bid package and award process. NOTE: AWI member firm ETemplate offered guidance and encouragement in the preparation of this article. Thanks also to Leininger Cabinet and Woodworking; Westmark Products; Rowland Woodworking; Stephenson Millwork; and Adams Brothers for contributions. The following links show the ETemplate products in action: http://www.youtube. com/user/ETemplateSyste ms?feature=mhee#p/u summer 2013 I design http://www.youtube.com/user/ETemplateSystems?feature=mhee#p/u http://www.youtube.com/user/ETemplateSystems?feature=mhee#p/u http://www.youtube.com/user/ETemplateSystems?feature=mhee#p/u

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Design Solutions - Summer 2013

Design Solutions - Summer 2013
Contents
Cornerstone
A Global Icon
Designed for Growth
A Delicious Design
HUB of Activity
Digital Measurement: Working on A Curve
Product Showcase
AWI Manufactoring Members
Ad Index
AWI Supplier Members

Design Solutions - Summer 2013