The use of a touch probe is optimised on a CNC system. Measurements from data points taken using the touch probe can be combined with those taken using video edge detection for optimum speed and reduced inspection times.
A probe changer rack can be installed so that probe modules fitted with a variety of pre-calibrated styli can also be used in the same inspection. When a change of stylus is required, the system automatically puts the current probe module back in the rack and picks up the next to continue the inspection process.
When programming using the touch probe, use only the minimum points required to define each element. Then simply edit in the optimum number of points for each element. The new probe path is then automatically created when the program is played, cutting down both programming and inspection time. Alternatively, features can be programmed directly from an imported 3D CAD model.