Method for predicting the accuracy of rotational elements measurements using the five-axis coordinate measuring system

The measurements of solids of revolution are one of the most common task in industrial practice. Therefore it is not surprising, that new solutions dedicated to improve accuracy and acceleration of measurements of rotational components are emerging. In this group, the new generation of articulating probing systems (with ability of continuous indexation) is worth mentioning. These probing devices combined with standard CMM forms the five-axis coordinate system. Such solution results in measurements acceleration and also improve measurement repeatability. Studies on this type of probing systems proved that their accuracy depends strongly on the angular orientation of probing system used during measurement. Therefore authors developed model that allows simulation of probing system errors for any orientation. This article describes an attempt to use the model to find the configuration of the probing system that would provide the highest accuracy for rotational elements measurements. The simulation results are compared to the real measurements of standard elements performed on five axis measuring system. Described prediction method could have a beneficial effect on improving the accuracy of measurements and, as a result, on reducing production costs by minimizing the risk of erroneous decision on the conformity of products with their geometric specifications.