Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM’s) Charlie McLean CEE 398

Components The machine itself The measuring probe many types strong granite base precision engineering The measuring probe electronic touch all shapes and sizes

Components (cont) The control or computing system operator controled computer numerical control PC The measuring software automatic everything CAD 3-D graphics windows

Types of CMM’s Articulated arm Bridge portable or tripod mounted probe can be placed in many different directions Bridge horizontally suspended x-axis carries the bridge

Types of CMM’s (cont) Cantilever Gantry supports probe from movable vertical support Gantry frame structure raised on side supports similar to bridge style

Mounting Options Benchtop Freestanding Handheld Portable

Common Applications Dimensional measurement Profile measurement Angularity or orientation Depth mapping Digitizing or imaging Shaft measurement

Buying CMM’s Specifications X,Y,Z measurement length Operation Resolution Workpiece weight Control Operation Mounting Options Probe/Sensor type Application features General applications

Buying CMM’s (cont) Companies Cost L.S. Starret Co. Helmel LK Metrology Systems Mahr Federal Inc. Faro Technologies, Inc. Carl Zeiss, Inc. Cost Wide range depending on CMM

References http://www.helmel.com/ http://process-equipment.globalspec.com/ http://www.coord3.com/ http://www.starrett.com/ http://www.qualitymag.com http://www.zeiss.de/