One way to make precise measurements of parts characterized by different shapes and sizes is to use a measuring arm. This extremely precise yet versatile device can collect a large amount of measurement data in a short period of time, which is of invaluable value, among other things. In the course of improving products and evaluating the quality of their workmanship. In addition, the measuring arm can speed up and increase the efficiency of the work performed. Where is this device used in practice?

Measuring arm – characteristics and uses

What distinguishes the measuring arm from traditional measuring techniques is its high precision, mobility, repeatability and, above all, the ability to evaluate the full geometry of the workpiece. In situations where it is necessary to obtain information on the physical size of an object to the nearest 0.1 mm, among others, the following are used. Such devices as the described arms along with a 3D scanner. What else is worth knowing about them? The measuring arm can measure contact (contact) with a probe-ball. In this case, it collects individual points from which it creates lines, circles, planes, etc.

If we install a laser scanner to the measuring arm, we have the ability to acquire millions of points. In this way, the operator creates is the so-called. point cloud. During the scan, the entire geometry of the workpiece can be reconstructed and then compared with the virtual model, creating a color map of the deviations.

Use of precision measuring arms

Taking precise measurements and collecting all the results in an accessible form is invaluable during prototyping. During the development of a new product, several, a dozen or even hundreds of versions are created. Gathering all the data on each of them shortens the process as much as possible and allows to improve each subsequent version until the final product.

• The companies use measuring arms to measure first-run workpieces. With such information, quality control can react instantly to any deviations from the norm and recalibrate machines if necessary.
• Measuring arms are used to make precise measurements in the automotive industry. This is because even the smallest mistake can cause huge losses, downtime and delays.
• Mobile CMs are used, also by companies specializing in the manufacture of tools used in the aerospace and precision industries.

This method finds application in dimensional analysis, as well as in accurately recording objects characterized by geometric shape. The measuring arm is also used to carry out quality checks on manufactured products. What other applications are worth mentioning?

• The combination of the arm and scanner is used when inspecting complex-shaped parts, including comparison to a model and creating a deviation map. Such inspections are carried out, among others. in the automotive and aerospace industries, as well as when creating injection molds, such as for details like car door handles.
• Another example is reverse engineering. 3D models are designed based on scanned data, the aforementioned point clouds. In this way, for example, design. turbine rotor blades.