Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs)

Charlie McLean CEE 398

Components
The machine itself

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 CMMs
Articulated arm

portable or tripod mounted probe can be placed in many different directions

Bridge

horizontally suspended x-axis carries the bridge

Types of CMMs (cont)

Cantilever

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 CMMs
Specifications
X,Y,Z measurement length Resolution Workpiece weight Control

Operation Mounting Options Probe/Sensor type Application features General applications

Buying CMMs (cont)

Companies
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/