CMM suits use on precision components

The MicroScribe X CMM arm's SmartCapture coil trigger deflects in any direction to help eliminate inconsistent pressure that adversely affects accuracy.

Immersion Corporation has introduced its new MicroScribe X high-accuracy portable co-ordinate measuring machine (CMM).

Designed for the high-accuracy needs of automotive and other manufacturers of precision components, the new portable CMM offers design advantages leading to enhanced accuracy, precision, and usability.

"The MicroScribe X system is a very competitive product that offers a fresh alternative to manufacturers concerned with exacting quality control and performance", says Michael Raphael, President and Chief Engineer of Direct Dimensions, a company specialising in measurement and inspection products, training, and services.

"For example, the MicroScribe CMM arm's standard three-year warranty is unheard of in this industry, and that speaks to the machine's quality and Immersion's customer service focus".

"They have been in this business for many years and have a very extensive measuring product line".

"Now they have a high-accuracy CMM arm that competes at the upper end of the market".

Besides a standard three year warranty, the new MicroScribe X CMM arm is conveniently compatible with third-party measurement and inspection software, giving manufacturers the flexibility to continue using existing software or choose the package best suited to their application.

In addition, the system supports a choice for certification procedures, including the possibility for certification at the customer's site.

Though annual certification is normally an expensive and time-consuming procedure, flexible MicroScribe X certification can reduce down time and eliminate shipping risk and expense.

Several design features contribute to the new portable CMM's accuracy, precision, and ease of use.

The system's SmartCapture coil trigger deflects in any direction to help eliminate inconsistent pressure that adversely affects accuracy.

Consistent or inconsistent pressure is signaled to the user with a green or red LED, a feature that supports greater precision.

The coil also isolates the probe from the user's hand to help maintain constant temperature, which can enhance accuracy.

The MicroScribe CMM arm uses a dual-mode electromechanical safety brake that takes weight off the upper arm to alleviate user strain, and helps prevent damage by automatically engaging when high joint acceleration is detected or when the arm is in its home position for longer than 30 seconds.

The brake helps eliminate the single most common type of damage to portable CMMs: dropping the articulated arm.

The new MicroScribe system's brake can remain on, even without power, and won't break if its strength is exceeded.

The MicroScribe X portable CMM embodies design principles that result in rigidity and stability for higher accuracy measurements.

Specially designed alignment of carbon fibres has produced a high-strength housing with minimal temperature expansion.

Widely spaced, billet-machined (not cast), symmetrical (not cantilevered) joints and large-diameter bearings help ensure a very stiff and durable CMM arm that can supply highly accurate and precise performance for years to come.

Although accuracy can be the deciding factor for buyers, the lack of standardised accuracy specifications among vendors makes comparisons difficult.

The best course is to match CMM arm accuracy with application requirements.

The MicroScribe X portable CMM's volumetric length accuracy is 40 microns, sphere centre repeatability is 15 microns, and effective diameter is 12 microns.

In addition, the system can be tuned for an application-specific measurement range, which can increase accuracy further.

The system includes a verification kit to enable accuracy self-checks at any time.

"We provide more choice with our complete line of MicroScribe systems", explains Bill Hoverter, Director of 3D Sales for Immersion.

"A customer can come to a single source and choose a system that fits their needs without breaking the bank".

"But we also bring clarity to the question of CMM arm accuracy".

"We can supply test methodology, procedures, calculations, and results, so our customers can compare and fully understand MicroScribe portable CMM performance and how it can fit their needs".

"We have sold over 8000 MicroScribe arms and look forward to expanding our product offering to fulfill more of our customers' needs".

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