Technology Convergence Creating High Growth Potential in Dimensional Metrology
The impact of the convergence of industrial automation and ICT has been tremendous in recent times. Benefits of this convergence can be seen even in markets such as dimensional metrology. Several technological advancements such as 3D printing are helping manufacturers create complex products like never before. These products are so complex and intricate that it is no longer possible to inspect these objects using traditional inspection mechanisms such as Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) or optical measurement systems. This has led to the emergence of Computed tomography (CT) as the single most effective technology that can handle such growing complexities of product designs and composition. CT is still in a nascent stage of development, yet its future is extremely promising.
Computed Tomography in Dimensional Metrology Market – Forecast to 2022 (K25C) is an upcoming research paper from Frost & Sullivan that will evaluate the usage of CT systems for dimensional measurement in industrial environments. Industrial CT systems have the capability to carry out accurate internal as well as external measurements of objects without affecting the material composition or structure of the scanned object. These systems use advanced technologies to deliver high resolution 3D images of the scanned objects. This has proven to be extremely effective in the analysis of complex geometries when compared to other traditionally conventional methods such as CMM or optical measuring instruments. In fact, due to its growing popularity and benefits, CT in industrial environments is expected to replace at least 4% of the CMM market share in the long run.
The research paper will further look into areas where CT can be effectively applied across industry verticals such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and medical devices. The paper also looks into whether CT systems are more popular for analysis of tier-1, tier-2, or tier-3 components. The market has been analysed in detail from a global perspective understanding how CT is being perceived in the European, North American, and APAC region. An effort has also been taken into clearly defining CT systems according to different technical specifications of industrial CT systems such as focal spot size, acceleration voltages, and so on.
Prominent market players in each of these segments have been identified and analysed. The research paper also aims at throwing light on what the market participants are currently doing in this space, supported by how the market is likely to transform manufacturing arena in the coming years. This could come out as being extremely helpful to the current set of participants in the market, who are looking at understanding what their competitors are doing in the space. It can also serve as a major point of reference for all other market participants who are not aware of the immense benefits of CT or are in the verge of making a move in the market.
Frost & Sullivan further foresees that CT will emerge as a powerful tool for decision making and inline production. Rising complexity and volume of production, growing need to save costs due to destructive testing, and an increasing demand for precise analyses of objects will together drive the need for CT in industrial environments.
Keeping all these above mentioned points in mind, the following are some of the key questions that the research paper is expected to answer –
- What is the need for CT equipment to be adopted as a metrology solution? Where some of the challenges and what are the factors that will drive adoption of CT systems in the coming years?
- Are the existing competitors structured correctly to meet customer needs? What are the current products in the market? What are some of the potential opportunities for future?
- What kind of software is being used for CT analysis? Who are the key players and what do they bring to the market?
- What is the total market size and growth opportunity for the global CT dimensional metrology market? What will be the effect of CT on the growth of the CMM market?
- What is the accuracy domain for the different types of CT systems available in the market – nano-focus, micro-focus, mini-focus, macro-focus and linear accelerators? What is the market share, average cost and who are the key players in each of these segments?
- Which vertical market industry shows major growth opportunities? How is metrology perceived in sub-verticals within industries such as automotive and aerospace?
In a nascent market, it is therefore necessary that the players position themselves in the right areas for sustained growth and profitability. As bigger companies continue to hold their strong position in the market, smaller and emerging players are starting to gain a foothold in various regional markets. High installation and maintenance costs of the CT systems are also driving the emergence of CT inspection services. Smaller end users who do not have the necessary bandwidth for costs or expertise are now taking the CT inspection services route. In either way, it is a win-win situation for small as well as large equipment manufacturers, end users, and inspection service providers alike.
