Applications of 3-D solid modelling to coordinate measuring inspection

Abstract This paper describes a set of algorithms for the automation of component inspection using coordinate measuring machines. Solid modelling techniques are used to describe the component, and this model is then used to generate a set of inspection points and a collision-free probe path. The model is also used in the analysis of the resulting measurements. The algorithms have been implemented in a system that will handle the range of form, location and attitude tolerances, as defined by BS 308, for planar, cylindrical, conical and spherical features.