In mid-summer 2020, the DMSC received an inquiry from Japan regarding the potential use of the Quality Information Framework standard (QIF) to improve non-contact measurement workflows. After consideration by the DMSC Board of Directors, a DMSC Working Group was formed to consider additions to QIF, expanding coverage to non-contact measurement devices, such as cartesian-arm CMMs with optical instruments, CT scanners, laser trackers, and optical digitizers.
As the Working Group (WG) Charter was finalized, monthly discussions commenced. These meetings were held at a time of day that allowed participation by the team from Japan and USA-based members of DMSC. The key deliverable by the WG was a gap analysis for non-contact measurement workflows using QIF MBD that would require potential QIF revisions (if any) to support non-contact measurement workflows.
The Non-Contact Metrology WG (NCMWG) has been, through their monthly meetings, working on identifying and setting priorities for specific items that need to be included in QIF. These were initially identified by AIST NMIJ (National Institute for Advanced Industrial Science – a Japanese research facility) and NMIJ (National Metrology Institute of Japan) for measurement systems that are not using contact methods to acquire measurement points. This WG has been made up of AIST, NMIJ, DMSC members, and other interested parties.
The NCMWG has identified possible additions to QIF Resources for the next enhancement of QIF 3.0. A key criterion for each QIF enhancement is “don’t break it.” So these potential additions must be thoroughly evaluated for compatibility with QIF 3.0.
A second set of QIF enhancement ideas was recommended. While desirable, these enhancements are not suitable for a QIF minor revision. They do have value potential for future QIF releases. These items will affect “QIF Plans and QIF Results.” A timetable has not been determined for these potential QIF enhancements.
Additionally, the NCMWG has identified initiatives that overlap the scope of work being done by other organizations, such as ASME, ISO, and JEITA. These features may be adopted through joint initiative projects.
After submitting the above proposals, the NCMWG has met its original Charter objectives and will conduct future meetings as needed.
The Quality Information Framework is an ANSI accredited ISO standard: ISO 23952:2020. Contact DMSC Executive Director Mark Thomas with any additional questions: mark.thomas@qifstandards.org
