Abstract: To enable the on-machine measurement of selected features of a workpiece formed on a live spindle lathe with a positioning rotary table, both the machine itself and the electronic touch probe used to conduct the measurements are calibrated. The accuracy of the machine itself is measured and calculated by including the measured errors not only in the x and z linear axes, but also in the y linear axis. Calibration of the touch probe is made by determining a correction factor which is obtained by the touch probe measurement of an artifact whose dimensions are precisely known by other means. This correction factor is then made to the nominal measurements made by the touch probe on the selected features of the workpiece to be measured, to obtain the actual dimensions thereof. Adjustments are also made to compensate for the differences in radial positions between the workpiece and the artifact.

Abstract: To enable the on-machine measurement of selected features of a workpiece formed on a live spindle lathe with a positioning rotary table, both the machine itself and the electronic touch probe used to conduct the measurements are calibrated. The accuracy of the machine itself is measured and calculated by including the measured errors not only in the x and z linear axes, but also in the y linear axis. Calibration of the touch probe is made by determining a correction factor which is obtained by the touch probe measurement of an artifact whose dimensions are precisely known by other means. This correction factor is then made to the nominal measurements made by the touch probe on the selected features of the workpiece to be measured, to obtain the actual dimensions thereof. Adjustments are also made to compensate for the differences in radial positions between the workpiece and the artifact.

Abstract: A method and system for generating instructions for probing operations executable on a machine tool includes a probe module interfaced with a computer aided manufacturing program. Features selected from a digital model are utilized to determine part features for probing. The coordinates of those features are utilized to generate instructions combined and interwoven with machining instructions for fabrication of the part. The probing instructions are then converted by a post processor into executable instructions for use in a specific machine tool.