Bruker Alicona brings automation boost in quality assurance with the µCMM

Zfx, based in Dachau (Germany) and Gargazon (Italy),  is a global dental company. On one side, Zfx develops and produces prosthetic components for dentists and dental technicians. On the other side, the company offers specially developed equipment (scanners and milling machines) as well as the corresponding materials for the production of crowns and bridges in the laboratory. Zfx is part of the publicly listed US group Zimvie – a life science company specializing in dental and spinal medicine. The company responds to Medical Device Regulation, with greater precision and automation in quality management.

Once a Bruker Alicona user, always a loyal Bruker Alicona user

For many years, Zfx has utilized a Bruker Alicona measuring device to ensure the quality of their prototypes and product inputs. Up until August 2023, they relied on the InfiniteFocus G5 for this purpose. Werner Weithaler, the Senior Engineering Manager at Zfx, affirms that the InfiniteFocus G5 has consistently met their quality assurance standards. They have encountered no issues with defects or inadequate measurements. Despite the G5’s continued satisfactory performance, Zfx has made the decision to incorporate the µCMM coordinate measuring machine for even more precise and automated measurements. Weithaler explains that due to their previous satisfaction with the G5, it was only natural to turn to Bruker Alicona once again. The CMM is an ideal fit for the dental company’s measurement needs, as it offers even higher accuracy in the 3D space and the use of local optical probing significantly reduces the time required for a complete measurement plan.

Automating the process of pick and place

After the µCMM was commissioned, ZfX decided to enhance their quality management by incorporating a pick and place function into the coordinate measuring machine. This significant addition allows the machine to operate continuously, even during non-working hours and weekends when there are no employees present. By automating the loading of components through the pick and place feature, the workflow remains uninterrupted. Weithaler elaborates on the benefits of this advancement.

What is the measurement parameter of the µCMM from Bruker Alicona?

The µCMM from Bruker Alicona measures a wide range of geometric parameters, making it a versatile device. It is capable of measuring various components such as implants, titanium bases, prefabricated abutments, standard abutments, and screws. The materials used include titanium, plastics, and zirconium oxides. The device is able to measure external and internal diameters, as well as shape and position tolerances. These measurements are performed on components that are smaller than ten millimeters in length, with an internal diameter of fewer than two millimeters. Given the small size of these components, the tolerances are very tight, with a range of plus/minus 2 µm.

From production and back again

Through this quality control, Zfx not only shows whether production has adhered to the specified dimensions but can also provide feedback on where there are defects in the production process. The data obtained allows conclusions to be drawn about tool wear or other deficits in production.

The Medical Device Regulation requires a new direction in quality assurance

Zfx has not escaped the more stringent quality standards imposed by the Medical Device Regulation, which took effect in 2017. Nevertheless, due to the company’s internal protocols, they maintain a more relaxed approach compared to many of their competitors. Lukas Breitenberger, the General Manager of Zfx, elucidates, “Quality has always been of utmost importance at Zfx and its parent company Zimvie. Our guiding principle is ‘Quality begins with me!’ Therefore, every employee is fully dedicated. We did not require stricter regulations to enforce this, as it has always been ingrained in our practices. However, the need for oversight has increased, resulting in a surge in bureaucratic efforts and associated costs. Undoubtedly, the ultimate beneficiary of these stricter requirements is the patient, as the MDR ensures enhanced safety. However, it will pose significant challenges, if not impossibilities, for start-ups to overcome the financial obstacles imposed by the regulation.” Regardless, Bruker Alicona’s optical 3D measuring devices are exceptionally well-equipped to meet the heightened quality demands.

The systems from Bruker Alicona; global export leader in measurement technology

Alicona, the Styrian provider of industrial optical measurement technology, has been under the patronage of the American Bruker Group since 2019. Established in 2001, this company operates globally from its headquarters in Raaba near Graz, developing, manufacturing, and distributing measurement systems. With over 90% of its products sold internationally, Alicona plays a significant role in bridging the gap between traditional coordinate measurement and surface metrology through its advanced Focus-Variation technology.