Coordinate Measuring Machine-6840

International Journal of Mechanical and Industrial Technology ISSN 2348-7593 (Online)
Vol. 6, Issue 2, pp: (13-19), Month: October 2018 - March 2019, Available at: www.researchpublish.com
COORDINATE MEASURING MACHINE

(CMM)
Rohit Raju Nikam
Mechanical Engineer, Mit-Adt University’s School Of Engineering, Pune
Abstract: With the advent of numerically controlled machine tools, the demand has grown for some means to
support this equipment. There has been growing need to have an apparatus that can do faster first piece inspection
and many times, 100% dimensional inspection. The Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) plays a vital role in
the mechanization of the inspection process. Some of the CMMs can even be used as layout machines before
machining and for checking feature locations after machining. Coordinate measuring machines are relatively
recent developments in measurement technology. Basically, they consist of a platform on which the work piece
being measured is placed and moved linearly or rotated. A probe attached to a head capable of lateral and vertical
movements records all measurements. Coordinate measuring machines are also called measuring machines. They
are versatile in their capability to record measurement of complex profiles with high sensitivity (0.25 m) and
speed. In this unit, we will discuss the principle and the working of a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM).
Keywords: Tramming, Stylus, Axial length measuring accuracy, Probe, DMIS.
1. INTRODUCTON
A coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is a device that measures the geometry of physical objects by sensing discrete
points on the surface of the object with a probe. Various types of probes are used in CMMs, including mechanical, optical,
laser, and white light. Depending on the machine, the probe position may be manually controlled by an operator or it may
be computer controlled. CMMs typically specify a probe's position in terms of its displacement from a reference position
in a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system (i.e., with XYZ axes). In addition to moving the probe along the X, Y,
and Z axes, many machines also allow the probe angle to be controlled to allow measurement of surfaces that would
otherwise be unreachable. The typical 3D "bridge" CMM allows probe movement along three axes, X, Y and Z, which are
orthogonal to each other in a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system. Each axis has a sensor that monitors the
position of the probe on that axis, typically with micrometer precision. When the probe contacts (or otherwise detects) a
particular location on the object, the machine samples the three position sensors, thus measuring the location of one point
on the object's surface. This process is repeated as necessary, moving the probe each time, to produce a "point cloud"
which describes the surface areas of interest.
A common use of CMMs is in manufacturing and assembly processes to test a part or assembly against the design intent.
In such applications, point clouds are generated which are analyzed via regression algorithms for the construction of
features. These points are collected by using a probe that is positioned manually by an operator or automatically via Direct
Computer Control (DCC). DCC CMMs can be programmed to repeatedly measure identical parts; thus an automated
CMM is a specialized form of industrial robot.
Objectives:
 Familiarize yourself with parts of a CMM.
 Understand the principle and the working of a CMM.
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Research Publish Journals
Table 1: Graph between Traditional measurements vs. CMM
2. METHODOLOGY
Now a days Industries are leading to devolpe new technologies. And to improve the quality of product, Inspection is must.
The CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) is one of the way for measuring the dimensions of manufacturing product to
confirm that the product is manuactured according to design or note.
Earlier days the methods wich were used for inpection or measurment were time consuming and they were not give
accurate results. So the productivity of products were decrease.
The methodology used for this paper is by Servey By visiting the industries which are recently manufacture the CMM
1. Main Structure
The machine incorporates the basic concept of three coordinate axes so that precise movement in x, y, and z directions is
possible. Each axis is fitted with a linear measurement transducer. The transducers sense the direction of movement and
gives digital display. Accordingly, there may be four types of arrangement
Cantilever
The cantilever construction combines easy access and relatively small floor space requirements. It is typically limited to
small and medium sized machines. Parts larger than the machine table can be inserted into the open side without
inhibiting full machine travel. Figure shows a cantilever structure.
Fig 2.1: Cantilever CMM
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Bridge Type
The bridge arrangement over the table carries the quill (z-axis) along the x-axis and is sometimes referred to as a
travelling bridge. It is claimed that the bridge construction provides better accuracy, although it may be offset by difficulty
in making two members track in perfect alignment. This is by far the most popular CMM construction. Figure shows a
bridge structure.
Fig 2.2: Bridge Type CMM
Column Type
The column type machine is commonly referred to as a universal measuring machine rather than a CMM. These machines
are usually considered gage room instruments rather than production floor machine. The direction of movements of the
arms is as shown in Figure. The constructional difference in column type with the cantilever type is with x and y-axes
movements.
Fig 2.3: Column Type CMM
Gantry
In a gantry type arrangement, arms are held by two fixed supports as shown in Figure. Other two arms are capable of
sliding over the supports. Movements of the x, y and z-axes are also as shown in Figure. The gantry type construction is
particularly suited for very large components and allows the operator to remain close to the area of inspection.
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Fig 2.4: Gantry Type CMM
Horizontal CMM
Figure shows the construction of a horizontal structure. The open structure of this arrangement provides optimum
accessibility for large objects such as dies, models, and car bodies. Some horizontal arm machines are referred to as layout
machines. There are some horizontal machines where the probe arm can rotate like a spindle to perform trimming
operations. Tramming refers to accurate mechanical adjustment of instrument or machine with the help of tram.
Fig 2.5: Horizontal Type CMM
3. PROBING SYSTEM
It is the part of a CMM that sense the different parameters required for the calculation. Appropriate probes have to be
selected and placed in the spindle of the CMM. Originally, the probes were solid or hard, such as tapered plugs for
locating holes. These probes required manual manipulation to establish contact with the work piece, at which time the
digital display was read. Nowadays, transmission trigger-probes, optical transmission probes, multiple or cluster probes,
and motorized probes are available.
Inductive and Optical Transmission Probes:
Inductive and optical transmission probes have been developed for automatic tool changing. Power is transmitted using
inductive linking between modules fitted to the machine structure and attached to the probe. Figure shows a schematic of
the inductive transmission probe. The hard-wired transmission probe shown is primarily for tool setting and is mounted in
a fixed position on the machine structure.
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Fig 3.1: Inductive Probe System and Automatic Probe Changing
Fig 3.2: Optical transmission Probe
Motorized Probe
Motorized probe, 48 positions in the horizontal axis, 15 in the vertical axis can be programmed for a total of 720 distinct
probe orientations. Figure shows some typical applications for motorized probe. It shows that with a range of light weight
extensions, the head can reach into deep holes and recesses. The second diagram shows that head of the probe is
sufficiently compact to be regarded as an extension of the machine quill. This enables the inspection of complex
components that would otherwise be impossible or involve complex setups.
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Fig 3.3: Motorized Probe
Multiple Styluses Probe Heads

Wide ranges of styli have been developed to suit many different gaging applications. Some of the different styli available
are shown mounted on a multiple gaging head in Figure. The selection of stylus is done based on the application for which
the probe is to be used.
Fig 3.4: Multiple stylus Probe Head
4. MECHANICAL SET-UP
Fig 4.1: CMM Set-Up
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Programming/Measurement with the CMM:

Step 1: Home the CMM – establishes global coordinate system (Xm Ym Zm)
Step 2: Qualify the Tip (Calibration of probe tip with respect to probe head) compensates for tip diameter
Step 3: Align the Part – establishes a local coordinate system on the part (Xw Yw Zw)
Step 4: Measure the Part
Step 5: Representation of measurement results after coordinate transformation into w/p related coordinates system.
Advantages
CMM has got a number of advantages. The precision and accuracy given by a CMM is very high. It is because of the
inherent characteristics of the measuring techniques used in CMM. Following are the main advantages that CMM can
offer:
Flexibility: CMMs are essentially universal measuring machines and need not be dedicated to any particular task. They
can measure almost any dimensional characteristic of a part configuration, including cams, gears and warped surfaces. No
special fixtures or gages are required. Because probe contact is light, most parts can be inspected without being clamped
to the table.
Reduced Setup Time: Part alignment and establishing appropriate reference points are very time consuming with
conventional surface plate inspection techniques. Software allows the operator to define the orientation of the part on the
CMM, and all subsequent data are corrected for misalignment between the parts-reference system and the machine
coordinates. Single Setup Most parts can be inspected in a single setup, thus eliminating the need to reorient the parts for
access to all features.
Improved Accuracy: All measurements in a CMM are taken from a common geometrically fixed measuring system,
eliminating the introduction and the accumulation of errors that can result with hand-gage inspection methods and transfer
techniques.
Reduced Operator Influence: The use of digital readouts eliminates the subjective interpretation of readings common
with dial or vernier type measuring devices. Operator “feel” is virtually eliminated with modern touch-trigger probe
systems, and most CMMs have routine measuring procedures for typical part features, such as bores or center distances.
In computer assisted systems; the operator is under the control of a program that eliminates operator choice. In addition,
automatic data recording, available on most machines, prevents errors in transcribing readings to the inspection report.
This adds up to the fact that less skilled operators can be easily instructed to perform relatively complex inspection
procedures.
Improved Productivity: The above-mentioned advantages help makes CMMs more productive than conventional
inspection techniques. Furthermore, productivity is realized through the computational and analytical capabilities of
associated data-handling systems, including calculators and all levels of computers.
5. CONCLUSION
In this paper, coordinate measuring machines are discussed. The paper begins with a description of its part. Next to this,
the principle of operation and the working of a coordinate measuring machine are discussed. Special consideration in case
of coordinate measuring machines and the possible sources of errors in measurement are also noted down. The paper
finishes with the discussion of the advantages of a coordinate measuring machine.
REFERENCES
[1] Weckenmann, A, Estler, T, Peggs, G., McMurtry, D. (2004), “Probing systems in dimensional metrology”, CIRP
Annals-Manufacturing Technology, 53 (2), 657-684.
[2] Ali, S.H.R. (2010), “Two dimensional model of CMM probing system.” Journal of Automation, Mobile Robotics &
Intelligent Systems, 4 (2), 3-7.
[3] Stefan, R.R., “Basic Principles of Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM).”
[4] W. P. van Vliet, P. H. J. Schellekens, “Accuracy Limitations of Fast Mechanical Probing” Annals of the CIRP 45(1)
483-487
[5] A. Weckenmann, T. Estler, G. Peggs, D. McMurtry, “Probing Systems in Dimensional Metrology” Annals of the
CIRP
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International Journal of Mechanical and Industrial Technology ISSN 2348-7593 (Online)

COORDINATE MEASURING MACHINE

Table 1: Graph between Traditional measurements vs. CMM

Fig 2.1: Cantilever CMM

Fig 2.2: Bridge Type CMM

Fig 2.3: Column Type CMM

Fig 2.4: Gantry Type CMM

Fig 2.5: Horizontal Type CMM

Fig 3.1: Inductive Probe System and Automatic Probe Changing

Fig 3.2: Optical transmission Probe

Fig 3.3: Motorized Probe

Multiple Styluses Probe Heads

Fig 3.4: Multiple stylus Probe Head

Fig 4.1: CMM Set-Up

Programming/Measurement with the CMM:

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