Coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) map the geometry of physical objects. Manufacturers in the automotive, aerospace, and medical design industries, among others, frequently use these devices to inspect and reverse-engineer parts and machinery. By comparing data the CMM collects with a design specification, engineers can gain insights that lead to product improvements. Modern CMMs take advantage of precision touch-trigger probes and scanning probes, along with CAD integrations, to help operators and engineers speed up the design cycle. Here are three cool features of coordinate measuring machines that will “wow” you with their capabilities.
1- Touch Trigger Probes
A touch trigger probe uses a kinematic sensing mechanism to take precise, accurate measurements of an object. Its stylus tip, usually made from a material like synthetic ruby, tungsten carbide, or carbon fiber, records discrete data points wherever it makes contact with a surface. Each interaction between the probe and its target generates a distinct, easily detectable electrical signal that indexes the measurement point and can be sent to a computer in real time. They are well suited to measuring simple features or making high-precision measurements at specific points.
2- Scanning Probes
A scanning probe continuously captures topographical data as its stylus moves along the surface of an object. Because the probe tracks change as it moves along a path, it’s ideal for measuring complex shapes and contours and creating detailed surface profiles of curves and slopes. Scanning probes generally measure complex shapes more quickly than touch trigger probes, making them efficient at generating large datasets.
Contact scanning probes maintain contact with the surface of their targets as they take continuous measurements. When the probe’s stylus tip makes contact with a surface, it deflects slightly. Sensors within the probe measure this deflection, and the series or aggregate of measurements taken determines the surface profile. The stylus’ tips are typically made from synthetic ruby, which produces highly accurate results and is extremely wear-resistant.
Noncontact scanning probes project laser or light beams against the surface of their target to create several thousand data points that can be aggregated to create a 3D image. When the coordinate measuring machine receives this “point-cloud data,” operators can import it into a CAD software application to use the geometric profile of the object to create a working 3D model.
3- CAD Integration
Coordinate measuring machines allow users to map the measurement data they collect, including point cloud data, directly onto a CAD model of an object. Their software can calculate precise dimensional differences, including discrepancies in form, size, and location between the scan of the object and its CAD design, and display a visual image that represents these differences. This functionality allows an operator to compare the representations identify variations in their geometries and refine the CAD design. It can also ensure high precision during an inspection or a quality control check.
Coordinate Measuring Machines Can Be Key to Better Design
Coordinate measuring machines can represent an object’s geometry with astonishing speed, precision, and accuracy. These tools give engineers a remarkable ability to improve and innovate their designs and reduce the time it takes to bring these changes to market.