Calibration of Positional Errors in Coordinate Measuring Machines and Machine Tools Using a Laser Interferometer System

Abstract

Dimensional inspections in manufactured workpieces allow assess the quality of the manufacturing process, in this context the quality and development of measurement systems are issues addressed by many researchers. The coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) are versatile systems, can measure complex geometries quickly and accurately. Positional errors are parts of volumetric error and affect the correct positioning of probe in CMMs or of the tool in machine tools. Faced with this, the purpose this investigation is show a method to calibrate the positional errors in a bridge-type coordinate measuring machine, this method collects data in dynamic mode and reduces cyclic errors. The calibration of positional errors was performed using laser interferometry in the “on-the-fly” mode and a method to reduce cyclic errors was applied. The highest value of position error occurred in x axis with value positive of 10μm in the position of 220mm, while in the y and z axis the higher absolute values were 2μm and 6μm respectively. From calibration and compensating of positional errors it is possible to reduce the effects of the volumetric errors in machines with axis of linear displacements as the CMMs and machine tools.