CMM and VMM Probing Systems

A CMM or VMM measuring machine allows you to get exact measurements of an object. These measuring systems are useful for many purposes, such as reverse engineering or getting precise measurements of parts and components.

CMM and VMM: What’s the Difference?

CMM stands for coordinate measuring machine, and VMM stands for vision measuring machine. A CMM is used to measure the precise distance between two coordinates on a 3D object. A VMM is a non-contact measuring machine that uses optical elements, sensors and software to perform its precision measurements.

CMM and VMM machines are useful in many industries, especially for reverse engineering functions. Someone who runs a company might want to make a product that is very similar to that of the competition, but without infringing any patents. However, sometimes there is no way for you to know what the competition has done unless you have used a measuring machine to know the precise dimensions of the components that make up the product. That’s where CMM and VMM technology can be crucial.

Even for your own internal use, these machines can help you reduce the amount of excess scrap material your operations produce when manufacturing parts -- making your business more productive by cutting back on waste.

Plus, CMM and VMM devices can be used to give you measurements down to the smallest detail. They come in various sizes depending on your needs, and some models are also portable.

Key Advantages of Using a Vision Measuring Machine

Vision measuring machines are highly precise, non-contact measuring devices that quickly and efficiently measure objects. They use cameras to capture multiple images of an object and computer software to calculate the dimensions of the object based on those images. These machines offer several benefits over more traditional ways of taking measurements.

Increased Accuracy

Due to the level of detail the cameras capture, vision-measuring machines quickly and accurately take precise measurements. If you need accurate measurements of the dimensions and angles of an object, a vision-measuring machine reliably and reproducibly takes those measurements.

No Contact

Traditional measurement methods require physical contact with the item being measured, making these tools and processes unsuitable for measuring intricately designed or delicate objects. VMMs take a detailed view of such objects, providing an overview of their geometry without touching fragile components.

Efficiency

Speed and efficiency are vital when measuring objects for quality control purposes. Because vision measuring machines rely on computer imaging, they can take snapshots of an object and calculate the dimensions quickly, providing rapid feedback and maximizing your productivity.

It's easy to integrate our VMMs into automated production lines, which minimizes the need for manual intervention during the manufacturing process.

Traceable Measurements for Quality Control

When you use a VMM to measure items on your production line, you can easily keep a record of those measurements, improving traceability and quality control. The machine identifies small defects or deviations from the norm that might be invisible to the naked eye. You can record whether these deviations are within acceptable parameters and view those measurements again in the future if necessary for troubleshooting or product recalls.

Improve Regulatory Compliance

The increased level of accuracy and traceability of VMMs compared to analog measuring methods makes them ideal for use in industries with strict regulatory requirements. The detailed measurements these devices provide help prevent costly faults and product recalls and ensure you have easy access to any data that might be asked for by regulators.

Who Needs CMM and VMM Machines?

Any company in just about any industry can benefit from the precise measurements that CMM & VMM measuring machines provide. You can copy or study any item or part, with fast results because CMM and VMM machines allow you to take highly accurate measurements in moments. When you are ready to study or copy a certain object, you can easily use those measurements to make your own replicas for further study, testing or any other use.

We offer a variety of CMM probing and VMM probing kits as well as replacement parts and extension kits to help you get more out of your equipment. Browse our selection today for some of the best metrology equipment on the market -- and enjoy one-day shipping!

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