Off-line programming of coordinate measuring machines using a hand-held stylus

Abstract

A new method for programming a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is described. A six degrees of freedom position-sensing device is used to identify measurement points on an actual part, thus creating a CMM program. Experimental results indicate that the position-sensing device, although not accurate enough for part inspection, possesses sufficient accuracy for machine programming. These results are verified by writing and executing a CMM program. © 1994.