A standard tablet transforms into an inspection tool for operators: As they use it to check features of inspected objects from various perspectives, the tablet’s camera images are augmented with 3D CAD data in real time. These precise AR overlays enable immediate detection of any deviations between the actual manufactured objects and their CAD models. Twyn utilizes computer vision technology to automatically register and track manufactured items in real time. This forms the foundation for swift yet accurate visual target-actual comparisons, eliminating the need for pre-preparations or markers when analyzing parts. Leveraging the capabilities of image processing and AI, a vision-based automatic deviation detection assists users during inspections. In AR, deviations are automatically highlighted with different colors, such as when attachment parts are displaced, or drill holes are not in their target position. Mobile quality control, facilitated by AR, streamlines previously manual inspection tasks and accelerates processes that have often relied on traditional measurement methods.
Twyn Software Platform
Twyn comprises two integrated components: Studio and View. Twyn Studio is a desktop software enabling quality engineers to set up new cases and design and edit inspection routines, based on CAD data. Users define inspection procedures structured into different steps, which will then be executed by quality inspectors on-site. For each step, a viewing or inspection area can be defined, precisely indicating the position where the operator should move the tablet in relation to the assembly being inspected. The mobile app Twyn View transforms iOS tablets into mobile quality control tools. Once created in Studio, operators can load and run inspection routines on their mobile devices. During inspections, annotations and remarks can be added and further processed as comprehensive reports in Studio once on-site sessions are completed.
Workflow
Twyn allows users to author quality inspection workflows without writing a single line of code, making it possible to define and conduct visual quality inspections even without any AR expertise. Its optimized workflow allows operators to begin inspections with a few steps: load CAD models, set inspection start points, transfer to iPad. The setup based on CAD twins enables an immediate use of the system directly on-site. The platform supports the standard and most relevant 3D CAD formats for industrial and manufacturing applications, e.g. Catia, JT, STEP, and IGES – eliminating the need for prior conversion.
Visual indicators mark and highlight points of interest, simplifying inspections of complex assemblies by guiding users to critical features. Spatial inspection points enable users to pinpoint specific areas that require special attention. Both features ensure a precise, and fast way to conduct inspections and document observations and results. Once verified, inspection points are highlighted with dedicated indicators and visualized with distinct colors, allowing to easily track the status of each inspected feature.
Comprehensive tools help during inspection in AR. These include an interactive magnification lens, virtual clipping and other viewing options that allow for a straightforward visual comparison between the target and the actual object. Instant classification, markups and annotations support a complete and fully digital documentation of results, enhance traceability and streamline communication between quality and production teams. Additionally, with a camera always in place, users can capture images of relevant features, facilitating efficient and comprehensive reporting.
For recurring inspections or complex inspection routines, Twyn provides valuable guidance to operators through step-by-step instructions presented as comprehensive checklists. This ensures consistent procedures, results, and documentation, irrespective of the users or their level of experience. Fully digital and customizable reports provide concise summaries of inspection results. They can be exported in various formats (e.g. XLS, CSV, or PDF) and shared with quality and production teams, as well as suppliers. With Studio, quality managers and inspectors working remotely at different Twyn workstations can access a shared database and exchange individual project files, ensuring consistent procedures across various locations. Furthermore, it also supports multiple channels, including Cloud, Microsoft Teams, and email.
Location: Darmstadt (Germany)
Year founded: 2017
Founder(s): Harald Wuest, Timo Engelke, Jens Keil, Folker Wientapper
No. of employees: 25
Commercial status: revenue
Visometry GmbH
