In the realm of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), system accuracy is no longer the bottom line. Today’s manufacturers require faster measurement speeds in addition to highly accurate machines. Improving productivity is a top priority and manufacturing engineers are focused on finding new and effective ways to eliminate production bottlenecks. In the metrology marketplace, there are exciting alternatives to conventional measurement solutions that are helping manufacturers stay competitive. New faster, sophisticated CMMs are being applied to problematic applications bogging down production, such as parts with complex geometries that require much longer inspection times.
Traditionally, a manufacturer chooses an inspection system based on the part(s) that need to be measured. Other critical factors influencing the selection process are the size of the workpiece, the type of geometry being applied, the tolerances or accuracy levels required, and operation throughput. In the end, there always seemed to be a compromise. For example, the most accurate way to measure a part may not be the quickest, so often, the choice is a system with less accuracy in the quest for greater speed. Customer demand for greater versatility in inspection systems has pushed metrology OEMs toward new approaches and technology innovations.