Batching Measurements

Batching measurements with TAMS

Batching is used to group several individual measurements on the same part, surface or condition and to calculate averaged values such as Quality and Harmony. Working with batches improves repeatability and makes it easier to compare results between samples, lines or process settings.

Why use batches?

  • Reduces the influence of local variation or single outliers.
  • Provides average values for key metrics (for example Q, H, O‑Ra, O‑Rq, W).
  • Organises results by part, panel, process step or job.

For most applications, at least three measurements per batch are recommended.

Batch modes

Batch behaviour is configured in the Admin → Batch settings menu:

  • Manual batch mode – The operator decides when to close a batch.
  • Auto batch mode – TAMS automatically closes a batch after a set number of measurements (Auto batch count).

Choose manual mode for ad‑hoc measurements and investigations; use auto mode for routine checks where the same number of positions is measured each time.

Creating a batch (manual mode)

  1. Ensure the correct surface type and algorithm are selected.
  2. Take a series of measurements on the same part or condition (for example three or more spots on a panel).
  3. When finished, press and hold the batch button (as defined in your firmware) to close the batch.
  4. TAMS calculates the average values for that batch and, in high‑gloss mode, adds the Quality (Q) and Harmony (H) indices.

If Job mode is set to Manual or Guided with a database loaded, TAMS can also prompt for a batch name linked to part or job information.

Creating a batch (auto mode)

  1. In Batch settings, set Batch mode = Auto and choose an Auto batch count (for example 3).
  2. Take measurements as normal.
  3. After the specified number of measurements is reached, TAMS automatically closes the batch and calculates the averages and Q/H or roughness indices.

Auto mode is especially useful in guided workflows where the same pattern of points is measured on each part.

Reviewing batched results

On the Main screen, TAMS offers two review modes:

  • By result – scrolls through every individual measurement in order.
  • By batch (Q&H mode) – jumps between batch averages only (COUNT #0), which include Quality and Harmony in high‑gloss mode.

Use the left/right keys to move through results, and the Info screen to see batch index, count and any job/part information. Batched data can later be exported via SD card and analysed in Smart Manager, Appearance Elements or other tools.