METROLOGY SOFTWARE MARKET ANALYSIS

The complexity and lack of standardization in metrology software systems is significantly restraining the growth of the global metrology software market. Metrology software comes in various types to suit different metrology needs such as coordinate measuring machine (CMM) software, optical digitizers and scanners with programming suites, vision test measurement (VTM) software, and multisensory measurement software. However, each of these software types has their own proprietary file formats, programming languages, operating procedures, and technical requirements. Transitioning from one metrology software to another requires extensive rework and reprogramming to cope with the divergence in standards. Metrology software providers also keep changing and adding to their feature-sets through frequent product updates, which in turn demands continuous training and adaptation from users.

This high degree of heterogeneity imposes considerable switching costs on users and restricts them from efficiently leveraging different metrology systems as per their evolving measurement needs. For any industry, especially those in highly regulated fields like automotive and aerospace, aligning metrology protocols, and infrastructure across global facilities is crucial for harmonized quality control and seamless data integration. But the lack of common software standards compromises this interoperability and limits multi-site benchmarking of metrology performance. It discourages standardized procurement by large multinational manufacturers and hinders the proliferation of metrology into new application areas.

Market Opportunities: Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in metrology software

Integration of AI and machine learning in metrology software has the potential to significantly transform the global metrology software market. Metrology involves precise measurements and quality inspection which traditionally require skilled technicians and heavy instrumentation. By leveraging AI abilities like computer vision, deep learning, and predictive analytics, metrology software can autonomously perform inspection and measurement tasks with improved accuracy and speed. This reduces human error and makes inspection processes more efficient and cost-effective for manufacturers.