In collaboration with Witte, a longstanding expert in fixture systems, Eleven Dynamics has played a key role in delivering a groundbreaking solution that aligns perfectly with market needs.
Traditional fixture systems in automotive metrology involve massive physical setups requiring significant floor space, manual operation, and high maintenance costs. Virtual Clamping challenges this paradigm by simulating the clamping process digitally. Witte's solution, V Precision, developed in partnership with Eleven Dynamics, exemplifies this shift by eliminating the need for dedicated fixtures for every part.
Witte brings decades of expertise in mechanical clamping and part holding, while Eleven Dynamics provides the advanced software to drive this innovation. Their joint product allows automotive manufacturers to precisely position and measure parts using a flexible fixture system equipped with automated columns. Eleven Dynamics' software controls the columns, enabling users to load part data and position columns with high accuracy through an intuitive interface.
One standout feature of the V Precision system is its modularity. Starting with three columns for smaller parts like doors or hoods, the setup can be easily expanded to accommodate larger parts such as sidewalls or battery trays. Each column can handle over 50 kg, and scaled-down versions are available for smaller, intricate components.
Additionally, existing infrastructure, such as raster plates commonly found in measurement rooms, can be reused—eliminating the need for entirely new setups. This compatibility offers both cost savings and implementation efficiency.
To address the challenge of accurate part placement, the system integrates a camera and monitor setup, enabling sub-3mm positioning precision. This ensures reliable measurements while minimizing manual error. Operators can easily select parts in the software, and the system automatically adjusts the columns to predefined support points.
Moreover, the system includes tension-relief mechanics that slightly lift and oscillate parts to remove internal stresses before final placement, further enhancing measurement accuracy.
Unlike other solutions, Witte and Eleven Dynamics offer a superior price-to-performance ratio. Their system is vendor-independent, compatible with various environments, and does not require a robotic infrastructure. It can be deployed in tactile measurement scenarios and easily adapted for virtual environments, making it a true universal fixture system.
The V Precision system aligns seamlessly with Industry 4.0 ambitions. It can be mounted on AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), enabling automated transport into and out of measuring areas. This opens the door to a fully digitized and autonomous measurement workflow, with the Eleven Dynamics software visualizing and orchestrating every step.
Built on a modular, LEGO-like principle, the system grows with the customer's needs. Whether it's adding more columns or transitioning to larger base plates, users are never locked into a single configuration. The solution remains adaptable to changes in part sizes, production volumes, and infrastructure requirements.
With V Precision, Witte and Eleven Dynamics are setting a new standard in automotive metrology. This flexible, software-driven fixture system is more than a response to current industry challenges—it's a forward-thinking solution built for the factories of the future. As manufacturers embrace digital transformation, innovations like Virtual Clamping will be essential tools for staying competitive, efficient, and precise.
Watch the video to see the V Precision system in action and learn more about the collaboration between Witte and Eleven Dynamics, watch the full video interview:
