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Measuring Arm (Articulated Arm) Technology

Articulated arm measurement systems (or measuring arms) use calibrated angle encoders and arm segments to determine the end tip location of an arm's probe. Measuring arms are used in many different applications, but primarily within industrial applications such as part-to-CAD inspection and reverse engineering.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The following is a list of advantages and disadvantages of using measuring arm technology:

Disadvantages Advantages
  • Mechanical restrictions make use cumbersome and awkward
  • More susceptible to damage due to rough handling & harsh environments
  • Accuracy may vary depending on joint orientation
  • No dynamic referencing - cannot detect/correct for vibration or movement
  • Portable design
  • Up to 6' (1.8 m) measuring radius available
  • Cost-effective solution if measuring smaller parts

Summary

Measuring arms offer portability, but are more difficult to use and result in operator fatigue due to mechanical restrictions and cumbersome design. OPTOTRAK Portable Coordinate Measuring MachineThe OPTOTRAK® Portable CMM is an excellent alternative to measuring arms, offering total measurement freedom, a large measurement volume, and true handheld operation using an ultra-lightweight probe.

Another advantage of the OPTOTRAK product line over competitors is the ability to perform dynamic referencing, a function that eliminates errors caused by vibrations in unstable environments.