Abstract: A magazine has a plurality of storage ports 400 each of which retains a stylus module 314 for use in measuring workpiece dimensions on a coordinate measuring machine. Each storage port 400 is configured as a pair of jaws provided by docking inserts 414. A permanent magnet 418 is mounted on each docking insert 414. The lower casing of the stylus module 314 is urged against the inwardly facing edges 416 of the docking inserts 414 by the magnetic attraction force due the magnets 418. The stylus module 314 is engaged with a retaining module (on the quill of the machine) by moving the retaining module in a downward sense to engage the stylus module 314; further downward movement disengages the stylus module 314 from the storage port 400, thus enabling engagement of such a stylus module and removal of the module from the storage port in a single continuous movement.

Abstract: A magazine has a plurality of storage ports 400 each of which retains a stylus module 314 for use in measuring workpiece dimensions on a coordinate measuring machine. Each storage port 400 is configured as a pair of jaws provided by docking inserts 414. A permanent magnet 418 is mounted on each docking insert 414. The lower casing of the stylus module 314 is urged against the inwardly facing edges 416 of the docking inserts 414 by the magnetic attraction force due the magnets 418. The stylus module 314 is engaged with a retaining module (on the quill of the machine) by moving the retaining module in a downward sense to engage the stylus module 314; further downward movement disengages the stylus module 314 from the storage port 400, thus enabling engagement of such a stylus module and removal of the module from the storage port in a single continuous movement.

Abstract: A touch probe for use on a coordinate positioning machine includes a stylus module and a sensing module securable to a movable arm of the positioning machine for releasably supporting the stylus module. The sensing module can include a sensor for detecting contact between the stylus and a surface and/or for detecting displacement of the stylus module relative to the movable arm. The stylus includes a support structure, releasably supported by the stylus module, and a stylus-supporting member for supporting the stylus, with the stylus-supporting member being biased into a rest position with respect to the support structure. The stylus-supporting member is displaceable from the rest position and relative to the support structure when a deflection force acts on the stylus, and returns to the rest position when the deflecting force is removed.