Five-axis automated measurement by coordinate measuring machine

This research paper presents an analysis of the undercut interference and inclination interference caused by complicated 3D workpiece during measurement. The objective of this research is to propose a solution to the collision between measuring probe and workpiece for the purpose of automation and interference-free measurement. The fundamental procedure is based on the 3D CAD model of workpiece and five-axis coordinate measuring machine (CMM) measuring facility to generate an interference-free stylus orientation through three phases—adjustment of inclination angle under linear contour, adjustment of inclination angle under non-linear contour, and definition of rotation-free angle. Such manner not only solves the interference problems but also incorporates the minimization of counts of measuring probe rotation. In terms of methodology, the research adopts projection of cutting plane to determine the interference status of the measuring point, and based on the measuring inclination angle on the proposition of self-intersected contour and cross-intersected contour concepts, the range of safe rotation range can be determined by sweeping operation. Following the presented methods and procedures, the five-axis CMM simulation system for automated measurement is finally developed to validate the feasibility of proposed solution.

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