A traditional coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is more accurate than a noncontact optical system, but is slower and can't be used on soft or very small parts.
The Internet, it is often said, "changes everything." Thanks to new Web-based software, the Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) process used in the automotive industry is no exception to that rule.
For small- and medium-sized manufacturers not knowing where to turn for help can be even scarier than for larger companies with bigger budgets and more resources.
Calibration is the comparison of a standard of a known uncertainty to another measurement tool of unknown certainty to detect, correlate, report or eliminate by adjustment any deviation from required performance specifications.
Philip Crosby, one of the original quality gurus, could have had drilling in mind when he said, "Quality is free." Given the right tool and correct feedback, modern drills can leave surface finish nearly as fine as some grinding operations.