Fraunhofer IWU
Fully automatic detection of defects in body parts
Car body parts for automobiles are manufactured from flat metal sheets, so-called blanks, in press shops. A Fraunhofer IWU inspection system helps to detect any defects at an early stage - even those that occur for the first time.
AnoWatch uses cameras to scan fault-free components first. Based on this target, the software checks the parts during production, detects deviations and directs the employees' attention to the relevant area
© Fraunhofer IWUThe automated system called 'AnoWatch' is taught with fault-free components and thus reverses the principle of many inspection systems, which are initially 'fed' with deviations from the target. The disadvantage of such solutions: Only a fault that has already occurred can be fed into the system and recognized by it. Previously unknown errors must therefore first occur during production, be recognized as such and marked as further possible deviations for the software. However, the number of these is not limited - depending on the press and tools, production process and circuit board, there are several sources of error.
According to the Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU, 'AnoWatch' learns completely independently without manual intervention during production and then takes over its inspection tasks autonomously. The solution developed by Dr. Thomas Wiener at the Fraunhofer IWU can also be used on the move. It can be installed as a compact, self-sufficient system above the production line and is ready for operation within a few hours. Interested users can thus get an idea of this solution in their own company before making an investment decision. For employees, the tool illuminates the zone of the component in which a deviation occurs and thus draws their attention specifically to this area.
Dr. Thomas Wiener was awarded 2nd prize in the Automotive cluster for 'AnoWatch' at this year's IQ Innovation Award for Central Germany.
© IQ Innovation Award Central Germany/Stephanie Göbel'AnoWatch' originated from Wiener's doctorate at Chemnitz University of Technology; the computer scientist is now developing his innovative quality solution to market maturity. The jury at this year's IQ Innovation Award for Central Germany was so impressed by the current prototype that it awarded Wiener second prize in the automotive cluster.











