We are proud to introduce FARO® BuildIT Metrology 2020.5, the latest release of our flagship software. Before you try out the new version, here are a few of the new features included in this release.
ANALYSIS
Simple Tolerancing for Features
Features now support comparing most of their properties against the actual geometry derived from their associated measurements. Tolerances can be applied on those properties and the results displayed in the feature's callout in the 3D view. This provides a convenient tool for performing basic controls on the measured features, providing feedback, as well as for evaluating non-GD&T tolerances in general.
AUTOMATION
Commands Can Be Played from Python Interpreter
The Python interface has been expanded to allow running all BuildIT commands directly from the Python interpreter.
It is now possible to write complete automated processes in Python only, providing a more seamless user-experience.
User-Defined Processes at Startup
User-defined processes can play automatically at startup or when opening a new file.
This feature can be enabled by placing a process called "start.process" or "new.process" in the "Automate" folder defined under "File: Settings: Interface: Automation".
USER EXPERIENCE
Flexible Input
Commands now accept inputs mixing units and basic arithmetic. Conversion of the input values into the active units is handled automatically.
Locked Expansion in Manager
The Nominal section in the Manager can now be frozen. In that state, the section will not expand upon selecting a nominal object in the viewport. The section can be unfrozen at any time to resume expanding and setting focus when selecting nominal objects from the 3D view.
Material-Based Rendering
Material-based lighting can be applied to individual surfaces, meshes and clouds in the model for an improved visualization and more realistic rendering.
IMPORT
Support for PMI in JT Files
BuildIT now imports and interprets the GD&T defined in JT files. For more information in the format, refer to https://www.spatial.com/resources/glossary/jt-file-format
Support for Compressed STEP Files (STPZ)
STEP files are sometimes zipped and packaged in a STPZ file for size optimization purposes. These files can now be imported directly in BuildIT 2020.5.
MEASURING
FARO Tracker Improvements
BuildIT 2020.5 leverages the latest FARO Laser Tracker improvements to provide a more seamless experience.
WiFi connections in general can sometimes be unstable, especially in factories and other high-interference environments. This new version now handles disconnections and reconnections seamlessly.
This version also allows shortening the startup time by skipping the warm-up period. Optimal accuracy is maintained by performing regular accuracy checks until thermal stability is attained.
Per-Point Timestamp in a Cloud
A timestamp is now associated with each point in cloud when measuring with a single-point device such as a laser tracker. This timestamp is stored in the model and can be exported to a text file along with the coordinates and other point attributes via the command "Automate: Export per-point attributes".
This is particularly useful for dynamic analyses such as robot path validation.
Full 6DoF Information in a Cloud
Full 6DoF information is now associated with each point in cloud when measuring with the FARO 6Probe, and this information is retained in the model. This information is stored as Euler angles and can be exported to a text file along with the coordinates and other point attributes via the command "Automate: Export per-point attributes".
This is particularly useful for dynamic analyses such as robot path validation.
More information on per-point attributes and Euler angles from the 6Probe is available on our knowledge base.