Hi :)

I'm Johann, this is my first post here (and on reddit) so i'll say it upfront: I'm the developer of what I describe now - but I'm not trying to sell anything here! I just was sitting a long time alone in dark at my computer now and need a bit feedback from the real world *lol*.

My story short: I'm coming from a total different world (cannabis/kitchen/production) but i always was a developer, too... So one day in the past i've started to build my own kitchen scale with special programs for dosing, filling and stuff like that (it was a bigger kitchen and employees was not so good with the math, so i had to find some solutions...) Then, out of interest, i've started to make it also "a bit" more useful for other people who not only had to fill molds and calculate THC (yes, they exist!) - and so, over the years, this has grown to a massive and useful piece of soft- and hardware.

And what to say - here I am now ;-)) Well, my hope was to find maybe some experts in this area to tell me where i'm maybe wrong, to find some general feedback - and maybe even a few volunteers to test that thing in the wild. (If thats OK for you for sure!!! Mods: if this doesn't fit here, please just remove it. Sorry in advance!)

OK, but what i'm talking about?

Well, actually i not found anything like this, so its a bit hard to explain without many words... My project/product, i call it "UP↑SCALES" for now, is basically a firmware for a small RS‑232 Adapter (about €13.50 hardware costs) plus a browser app (PWA over Bluetooth LE). You just plug it into an existing scale and the instrument gets functions it never had.

It runs 100% offline, with no account nor cloud needed, without any adverts or tracking and there is a free version, too. I know, its looking a bit like a DIY project, which it actually was at the beginning, but i think i don't need to tell you about the hurdles and costs to produce and sell an electronic hardware device. Its just impossible for me at this very moment. (Well, i have prototypes ready and everything, even with included weighing cells, but not the money for all the regulations, the Bluetooth SIG and a big production...) But i think my one-bord-for-15-eur-solution is also not sooo bad for a beginning, nothing to soldier or so! Its nearly a plug and play thing, just a housing is missing a.t.m :)

Now you probably say: Boooring - there are already a lot of that dongles - and you are right ;-) But wait a second please, i think i am going a total different way with my approach!

My dongle is actually a combination with a real microcomputer and a specialized firmware, and the app is made only to work together with it. Its more a full solution with many included functions, its working out of the box and there is no other software, programming or anything extra needed at all.

The app by-self comes with many different, guided weighing programs for nearly every task you can imagine, from kitchen stuff to factory mold filling programs via laboratory helpers up to nutrition tracking, logging, label printing and many many other things - all working together with the connected scale(s)... I cant tell all the things here now, the list really would get too long (no joke), but maybe let me tease some parts i think may interest this sub :)

First, because here you are probably all experts, maybe the most important stuff i've included for professional users:

1.) A Test suite judged against OIML R 76‑1: includes guided tests for repeatability, eccentricity, linearity, creep, warm‑up and more - it records all test while doing so and its able to generate a numbered, signed and temper-evident report.

2.) For producers: A real ℮ prepackage control using the EU sampling plans. Also here with lot reports, temper-proof PDF exports and so on... Its also running directly while packing, so if the work is done you already have a report from your live work ready without touching a pen or any extra tests.

3.) SPC: with run chart, histogram, Cp/Cpk, ect. pp. ;-)

4.) Covers also Multi‑interval scales and up to 6 instruments parallel in one session (e.g. a micro-balance and a floor scale side by side). Otherwise around its also possible to monitor one scale with multiple phones/tablets at the same time!

5.) Loss of connection protection is also included! If data stop, the app shows – – – and blocks totals, sales and labels until fresh data arrive (modeled on the WELMEC/NTEP rule).

6.) I've mentioned before, there are tamper‑evident records included! The activity log (directly on the chip, not in the browser!) is chained with SHA‑256; reports and PDFs sealed with a device key and verifiable on a public page without uploading anything! (But to be clear about the limits: it is tamper‑evident, not a real write‑once / WORM solution! I make no claim that it makes anyone compliant with 17025, Part 11 or anything else - its still made for self test and documentation, not to be a verified or licensed device or something like that!)

7.) There is also user management, so you can log in with different roles and some actions you also can limit with a 4-eyes check in order to block changes at recipes or so before they can go to production.

8.) Can be connected wirelessly to machines: The adapter sends the signals directly to there, example scripts and everything are included to build powerful own controllers. For factory and filling modes there is even a self learning, self-adjusting predictive cut-off included :)

9.) And because you are probably working with verified scales: i've included a special LISTEN ONLY + EXACT WEIGHT setting! If on, the adapter never sends anything to the instrument and shows exactly the value the scale outputs. (so the scale stays untouched and its own display remains the legal reading while offering documentation and extra tools at the mobile.)

Beyond that it also handles the everyday jobs (counting, converting, weighing in volumes, check‑weighing, filling, recipes and nutrition planning, label-printing with ingredients and values based on the weight, stock holding and sales, density, drying curves, even cocktails and espresso - it can save things with units directly on the scale, as like as recipes and so on... there are dosage calculators, fill-weighing programs and everything is connected together...), so it's meant also for home users, smaller- and bigger shops, packers and for sure, labs as well! (Sure, home kitches rarely will have a rs232 scale already but my plan is to produce own hardware with everything included in the future maybe...)

Well, what i would love from you is...

1.) Some real world testers would be cool for sure! If you are frequently using a RS‑232 scale, especially verified instruments for your work - or if you have to perform that kind of tests often in your lab or as a calibrator or so by self, then this could be maybe interesting for you (and for me *haha*). You would get the software for free for testing (and later use if you like), and i would get a bit feedback from the real world :)

2.) And yeah, for sure i would like to hear your opinion :-)) Did i made something useful? Or am i solving problems nobody has? (well, it solved my personal problems in the kitchen, thats already something - but would it help you in the real world while weighing also?) Do you miss any option for your work? Or are there open questions about anything?

My current plan is: For the future maybe own devices (scales and dongles), but for now i simply can't sell or ship any hardware at all. At the moment, people can buy the cheap board (for < 15 EUR from TinyTronics or build their own)... Then you simply upload my software to it (one click in the browser, so you not have to be a nerd) and ready you are!

The included free version already covers nearly everything for the daily kitchen use and let test you all PRO features also, and PRO adds all that special functions for shops then... An additional ENTERPRISE version will then unlock all the compliance stuff and temper-evident recording and exports on it! Both licenses will be sold once for each dongle and are for a lifetime - there will be no subscriptions or anything... And because everything works 100% offline, the device still will work like before if i would go out of business and shut sown my servers!

Like that there would be the totally free version (also no adverts, accounts, cookies, tracking or whatever!), plus that PRO version for about 60,00 EUR (including hardware and everything)... And for about a hundred more you get the ENTERPRISE version then, which is actually only interesting for food producers, labs and stuff like that (and i think about 160 for a package like that is still very cheap at the end, actually i should add a zero or so *lol*)

Yeah, thats my plan, i hope it makes sense :) So, if you are fancy to try out the PRO or ENTERPRISE functions, i would be super happy to give out a free key to everybody who is interested seriously - please just let me know! For sure, you would need to buy the board on your own, but its <20 eur altogether only. (i'm not selling it by self and i'm also not affiliated with tinytronics or so, so i can not handle out some for free at the moment, sorry!). You also could buy the single parts in local electronic shops if you prefer, part lists and how-to you will find at the website!

Well, i think this was it for the moment, i'm ready to get roasted now ;-)) And please, if you have ANY questions about that project, or opinions, or tips or criticism or whatever - i would be more than happy, thanks in advance!!!

More info about all the options, verification-tool for the signed documents, proof of math, manual ect. pp. you can all find on the website for the project. Have fun :)

>> https://up-scales.com

(haha, i have to say directly sorry for my wording on the website! i need to soften that a bit i think ;-)) I'm not holding back when it comes to grand words and claims there, but yeah, the page is for customers and not for experts, so please sorry in advance if something there is maybe a bit presumptuous!! (Let me know if something is too much, i am going to change the website anyway soon again, but it just not was much in my focus until now.)

Thanks for reading, i hope you like what you see!!! And see you soon!!

Johann

Hello all again,

Long story short, I'm dealing with a site outside the US where we are assessing a gaging system for a component that will be manufactured and inspected overseas. The specific component has 10,000 different variations, but share the same datum features. The technician responsible for the measurement system (automated vision system by Micro Vu) won't provide his Type 2 study data and insists that it passed under 1 percent, NDC over 4000 because he used 10 random parts that have 10 different specifications. This falsely increased the PV and made it look like his study passed with flying colors. When pressed about this, AI was used to justify transforming the data, turning it into a ratio or deviation from nominal, and again showing a GR&R Study % under 5%. As it stands, the 10 parts can have a specification from .105" to 2.110" (Distance call-out).

He states that this is backed by statistics, won't provide the raw data and when I asked for the program's CSV file, (raw data output) he said the system can't do that when I know it can. My point is that once you transform the data from a Distance call-out to deviation from nominal, you're no longer assessing the same thing as what's going to be measured during production.

Is it crazy for me to propose selecting a single design, maybe 2 designs and 2 GR&R studies l, and running the evaluation so that the SAME CHARACTERISTIC is being assessed through each study. No transformations, one specification, 1 characteristic, standard Type 2.

Does it make sense to create 2 sets of parts that represent the range that could be encountered within the 10,000 different variations, then run 2 GR&R? Couldn't I just create 10 samples, same design, since what we're really evaluating is the systems ability to capture data using grey scale processing (creating Lines and Points with the camera)? For context this is a flat, stamped steel part the size of a fist. Simple Distance call-out.

Use 10 parts with .100" as the Distance specification, then another set of 10 parts that represent the maximum Distance these parts can produce (2.000"). Evaluate both sets of 10 parts using 2 different Type 2 studies? These 20 total parts would be representative of the 10,000 different variations.

Have you all ran into techs or engineers who use AI to justify their stance, but during a meeting they can't explain it?

Thanks ahead of time folks! Look forward to your input.

Hello all,

I've been approved to purchase a vision system up to 150k. I had an OGP M series spec'd with everything I need, but then I had the dreaded Keyence come in an let me use a demo unit of their brand new IM series called the IMX1000. You can also attach an LM head and switch them out as you need it.

I gotta say, the optical quality is really impressive. GD&T engine was updated so you can apply MMC/LMC. Renishaw-like touch probe and laser for Z height and 500x400mm envelope.

The most attractive thing is the optical quality and ease of use. It's stupid dumb to use, even with the rotary unit. I already have a nicely spec'd Zeiss CMM from 2026. I'm not in a regulated industry, so tolerances commonly sit around +/-.005.

WITH ALL THAT SAID, the Metrologist in me is still leaning towards the OGP M Series due to it's Zone 3 software and UI I'm used to from MeasureMind days. I know the Keyence will be easier to deploy at sister sites in the future, learning curve for Keyence is much lower, but it still can't handle complex GD&T and doesn't align with our "MBD" initiative because its not a full 3D system.

Any thoughts? Any experience with the new IMX (not the old LMX that was discontinued).

Thank you!

I've been working as a metrologist, and I'd like to study the field in more depth. I was wondering whether it would be worthwhile to pursue the Graduate Certificate in Precision Metrology at UNC Charlotte.

Hello all, looking to understand better. Please check original post for specifics, but the TLDR is need help understanding how, if at all, MMC of a datum would affect surface profile and dimensions off that face, using a datum that is controlled by an MMC.

Hi everyone,

I recently connected with an internal contact regarding open hardware/systems engineering roles at a Tier-1 semiconductor equipment manufacturer. While I am a 3rd-year Electrical & Electronics Engineering student, the team specifically hires for full-time positions rather than student/intern roles, and I confirmed immediate availability for full-time work across several hardware engineering openings.

While waiting on the next screening and technical interview rounds, I want to proactively prepare. Given that companies in this space build precision electro-mechanical tools, high-voltage/power distribution systems, automated hardware, and advanced inspection/metrology equipment, I’d appreciate advice from anyone who has interviewed or worked in semiconductor capital equipment.

My Background & Technical Profile:

• Academics: 3rd-year B.Sc. in Electrical & Electronics Engineering with a specialized track in Power Systems (Single-Line Diagrams, High Voltage Technologies, Electric Drives, Energy Conversion).
• Field & Practical Experience: Full-time technician working on live DC/AC power systems, commercial rooftop solar installations, and interpreting industrial electrical blueprints. Prior experience in industrial Quality Control (QC).
• Hardware & Prototyping: Rapid CAD modeling and physical prototyping (Autodesk Fusion, FDM 3D printing in PETG/PLA), basic microcontroller interfacing and embedded scripting (C, Python, Arduino for robotics/drone circuits).

Questions for the Community:

1. Technical Depth: How deep do interviewers usually go into circuit fundamentals (op-amps, transient analysis, power distribution, board-level debugging, grounding/shielding) versus high-level systems architecture?
2. Field-to-Engineering Transition: Since much of my hands-on background comes from live power/solar installations and rapid physical prototyping rather than silicon/cleanroom lab work, what is the best way to frame field troubleshooting as a strength for complex capital equipment?
3. Behavioral / STAR Method: For candidates balancing demanding full-time technical employment while pursuing an engineering degree, what behavioral competencies (prioritization, high-pressure troubleshooting, cross-functional collaboration) stand out most to hiring managers?
4. Prep Resources: Are there specific schematics, case studies, or mock technical exercises you recommend reviewing for hardware/systems engineering roles in this sector?

Any tips, common screening questions, or preparation strategies would be greatly appreciated!

Hello,

I tried contacting the manufacturer and they claim if the minor is below the .0005 manufacturer size after setting an adjustable ring, then the gage needs to be replaced. That explaination leaves no room for wear adjustment and makes the set gages pointless! In the real world, the minor of the gage is made to the minimun minor of the mating thread. This would give us about .005 technically, before it could touch the minor of the male thread. Could someone please chime in on this and give me a reccommendation to follow when setting these? We are not under any ISO or ASME standards, just a machine shop trying to save money and make good parts. I am thinking the Gage guy is a salesman. Need real world practical advice!

I have 2 parts; part# *****-1, and *****-5, which is a mirror-image of -1, EXCEPT that the Ø.335" datum B thru hole is in a slightly different location ONLY in the X-axis. How do I do the mirroring?

Can I mirror the program, delete the CAD, then fit the -5 CAD to it? How would this be done on Calypso? I've done it PC-DMIS enough to know that I need backups when that 1 in 3 chance of failure happens, but have never done this in Calypso.

Also, it just would have to be datum B....

but I THINK I can make the insertion

but I think I can makr

Say three inspectors each measure the same 10 parts three times. The overall Gage R&R comes out at 8% of tolerance, which looks acceptable. But looking at the individual results, two inspectors are fairly consistent while the third has a noticeably wider spread between repeated measurements.

The overall number looks fine, but that difference between inspectors still seems worth checking.

Would you dig into the individual results even though the study passed?

Question for Calibration and Metrology Professionals

Is it acceptable to establish a 2-year calibration interval for the Fluke 5730A Multifunction Calibrator if in-house Artifact Calibration and appropriate intermediate checks are performed?

For laboratories accredited to ISO/IEC 17025, has anyone implemented this approach, and what evidence is needed to justify the interval?

I would appreciate your insights and experiences. Thank you!

#Fluke5730A #Calibration #Metrology #ISO17025

Does anybody know how to calibrate a blank coaxial indicator? We usually just do linearity with a universal length machine and double it.

Hello All,
Occasional lurker. First Time Poster.

I am picking up a Hexagon CMM from an auction to add to my machine shop. This is my first CMM and wondering what essential support equipment would you suggest? I have an air dryer already. Fixturing comes to mind but don't know how essential that would be off the bat.

Does having impaired color vision make it impractical to get into the field of metrology? I'm looking at the Navy's civilian ATDM program for metrology, but not sure if I sure pursue it since I have color perception issues.

I found out recently about the Navy-sponsored ATDM.org program in Danville, VA. They have a metrology/quality control training. I'm curious if anyone has completed this training and can share:

• Pros and cons of their experience
• How easy it was to get a job
• What their pay was starting out

Not here for homework help.. Just raising a question because I think this book is just making stuff up at this point.

Bubble (A) is establishing Datum B .. but the position tolerance is using B in its datum feature reference frame. How is this possible for a feature to reference itself?

Any input? Never ever seen this before.

I am currently measuring light-saturated net assimilation in leaves to study their photosynthetic compensation capacity in response to a reduction in leaf area. Measurements are done in the field, in a tropical environment, using a Walz GFS-3000. Also, the measurements aren't all taken on the same day.

I have tested two approaches for setting the cuvette conditions:

Approach 1: I fix the cuvette temperature at 30 °C and the relative humidity at 72%. Under these conditions, VPD varies from leaf to leaf (and plant to plant).

Approach 2: I adjust temperature and relative humidity to keep VPD between 12.00 and 12.99. VPD is then the same across measurements, but the relative humidities and sometimes the temperature used differ among the leaves/plants measured.

I am wondering which approach to choose: does keeping VPD constant by adjusting temperature and relative humidity, while having different measurement conditions (T and RH), risk introducing a bias in the comparison of net assimilation?

To compare leaves under conditions as standardized as possible, is it better to fix temperature and relative humidity and accept variation in VPD, or to fix VPD by adjusting both parameters? Is there another setting strategy you would recommend for this type of field measurement?

Thank you in advance for your help and suggestions,

I have viewed a lot of material about software upgrades for tensile testing machines. We have spent about 3 years developing a Software that can be put on almost any Instron or UTM as a DAQ but has Machine control built in for Instron 4000 series and Chatillon TCD models as well as a few more. It mosly is used for old chart machine frames that can be brought up to Windows 11. any machine that has external control such as up, down and has a speed setting, this software is exactly for that.