Inline forming-tool inspection method and system for micro-manufacturing

Partner University of Strathclyde, assisted by other partners, has developed a method combining tool surface inspection and die-cavity inspection for inspecting forming-tools used in the Micro-Fast production process. The aim is to detect the surface contamination and possible defects occurring in the punches and dies, so the decision on the cleaning or replacement of the tools could be made inline. The prototype system has been constructed and algorithms and software modules have been initially tested. The method and system could be used in other micro-manufacturing processes that use forming-tools such as moulds and embossing tools.