products
Measuring Systems Mechanical or electronic, precision is still the name of the game. Measuring systems have fared well through the technological evolution of recent decades. Once forced by necessity to follow the “rule-of-thumb” protocol, today’s collision repair professionals can benefit from extremely precise and quick measurements. Over the following pages we’ve compiled some of the leading-edge systems on the market today, which have incorporated intuitive technology and easy-to-use interfaces to assist repairers in conducting the most accurate measurements, and thus the best possible repairs. Electronic measuring systems seem to draw a lot of the attention, with computer controls and laser precise measurements, but we shouldn’t forget that mechanical measuring systems have also continued to evolve. They are more rugged and more precise than ever before, and the price can be attractive for a shop on a budget. As always, please research any purchases thoroughly before you sign on the dotted line. Inclusion of a product in this section is not intended as an endorsement of these systems by Collision Repair magazine or its staff.
Car-O-Liner
Chief Automotive
Car-O-Liner bills the Car-O-Tronic Vision X3 as the most advanced measuring system on the market. The Vision X3 features Car-O-Liner’s handEye software download for iPhone and iPad, a measuring slide that updates data three times per second and access to the largest vehicle database in the world. While the system boasts cutting-edge technology designed to conduct precise measurements, Car-O-Liner has placed a special emphasis on creating a user-friendly, intuitive system that allows shops to navigate the program with ease. The entire measuring process is accomplished in three steps: registration of the work order within the system; conducting of automatic centering and measuring; printing out measuring results. The Vision X3 strikes a delicate balance between the two demands often made of measuring systems: technological savvy to produce precise results and intuitive software allowing repairers to conduct efficient business. Other highlights include a complimentary one-year subscription to Car-O-Liner’s vehicle database, Car-O-Data, which Car-O-Liner says is the most complete available.
The collision repair industry has always been plagued by the difficulties that come with trying to get upper body measurments for vehicles. Chief A u t o m o t i v e Te c h n o l o g i e s hopes to alleviate the task with its Intelli-Tape digital measuring tape. It is able to measure point-to-point distances faster and more accurately than previously possible, and can measure lengths of up to 80-inches and document them in either inches or millimeters. This low-cost device is also able to send data wirelessly and fill out the necessary fields within a tech’s Genesis software. The Intelli-Tape features a PH aluminum cable that’s able to effortlessly slide and retract to two metres in length, while its high impact ABS composite housing provides the durability needed for a busy shop environment. Measurements are easy to read thanks to high-intensity LCD display backlight, while the Intelli-Tape is easy to operate and is comfortable to use due to the soft keypad and raised task buttons. Intelli-Tape comes complete with features that ensure precise, accurate and reliable measurements every time, while the Intelli-Tram allows for the Tape to fit snugly and securely while in use. Its light weight and easy manueverability help make it a perfect tool for the tough, rugged shop enivironment.
> www.car-o-liner.com
> www.chiefautomotive.com
Car-o-tronic vision x3
Intell-Tape
april 2013 collision Repair 39