WEATHERFORD, TX — The Coordinate Metrology Systems Conference (CMSC) made history this summer in Charleston, SC. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the premier event for portable 3D measurement professionals attracted metrologists from around the world, including a record breaking number of new attendees. Hosted by the Coordinate Metrology Society (CMS), the organization prides itself on the open, educational atmosphere found at the CMSC. The week long event draws the top brass in the industry, as well as novices in the field, including manufacturers, engineers, scientists, quality control specialists, metrologists, educators, and students.

Attendees are encouraged to discuss problems, find solutions, and explore the newest technology advancements from service providers and OEM manufacturers of close-tolerance, industrial coordinate measurement systems, software, and peripherals.

Mr. William Gressler’s keynote address officially kicked-off the CMSC and its unrivaled schedule of original, expert technical presentations. Gressler is the Telescope and Site Manager for the LSST (Large Synoptic Survey Telescope) Project. His presentation entitled “Metrology Systems Enable Big Science” covered how telescopes were among the first key metrology systems to help scientists to understand the Universe and provide a glimpse of the future of our planet.

Twenty-four metrology professionals covered subject matter such as the application of photogrammetry for antenna measurement, the absolute positioning of robots, automated production measurement of an auto welding line, comparing optical vision systems and much more. The diverse presentation roster included international speakers from The Boeing Company, Lockheed Martin , Electroimpact Inc., Gancell Pty. Ltd (Australia), NMS s.r.o. (Switzerland), Escola Politecnica da Universidade De Sao Paulo (Brazil), Espace2001 s.a., National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), University of California Davis, National Research Council of Canada, Premium AerotTech (Germany), Shanghai University (China), Rolls Royce, National Physical Laboratory (NPL - UK), Sigma Space, FFT Produktionssystemme GmbH (Germany), NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Hitachi Power Solutions Co. (Japan), and other leaders in the field.

CMS Launches Level-Two Certification Program for PCMMs

The CMS launched their Level-Two Certification, a hands-on performance examination for users of portable CMMs (coordinate measuring machines). This is the industry’s first device-specific assessment conducted by CMS-authorized proctors. Candidates are required to complete an application process and qualify in order to take either examination. Applicants for the CMS Level-One Certification must meet eligibility requirements, sign the CMS code of ethics, and pass a peer review. Applicants for the CMS Level-Two Performance Certification must have a Level-One Certification, two years basic experience (minimum 400 hours) on an articulating arm, and submit an application with two references who can attest to their hands-on expertise. The Level-Two Certification program was professionally designed and developed in cooperation with the CMS. For more information, visit http://www.CMSC.org/cms-certification.

Packed Exhibition Hall, New Measurement Zone, and More

The CMSC featured 43 exhibitors in the action-packed Exhibition Hall where attendees viewed technology, services, and solutions for their portable metrology requirements. The well-rounded conference also included networking events, User Group Meetings, a popular 5 Billion Micron Fun Run/Walk, and the annual CMSC Banquet. Many attendees caught the Friday tour of the Boeing – North Charleston facility, and enjoyed a tour of the beautiful Charleston Harbor.

Located in the center of the Exhibition Hall, the all-new 2,500 sq. ft. Measurement Zone was the focal point for daily educational activities focused on advancing the knowledge of metrology. In this arena, there was a popular e-Learning Center featuring multiple topics, seminars and workshops. The Measurement Zone also served as a learning hub for Portable arm applications. The exciting laser tracker competition utilized a full size BMW for participants to accurately measure features on both sides of the vehicle and compare them to its design model. The redesigned and expanded Measurement Zone was “the place” to learn more about metrology, test skill levels, and gain hands-on experience with portable metrology devices.

For more information on the Coordinate Metrology Society and 2014 conference, visit www.CMSC.org.