Enhanced CMMs To Improve Manufacturing Processes

Competitive manufacturers have shifted their focus from post-process defect detection to realtime, in-process defect prevention. In 1992, existing coordinate measuring machine (CMM) technology, which was used for quality control purposes, failed to meet the demand for realtime, highly accurate measurement, because the machines had to be located in climatecontrolled rooms. Giddings & Lewis proposed to bring CMMs to the factory floor to improve process efficiency and product quality. These process improvements would result in fewer errors, thereby decreasing the levels of scrap, down time and the associated potential for large financial losses for the manufacturers.