Research on optimal measurement area of flexible coordinate measuring machines

When we measure a workpiece in the optimal measurement area of the flexible coordinate measuring machines (FCMMs), the measuring precision can be improved. The flexible CMM’s measuring space is given. Then its spatial error distribution model is build by using support vector machine theory. Finally, the two solutions of the optimal measurement area are discussed and solved through experiments. The high precision measurement results can be realized by using a low-precision measuring machine without any increase in hardware manufacturing cost. This is of great theoretical value and practical significance for the flexible CMM’s further development.

► The flexible CMM’s measuring space is given.
► Its spatial error distribution model is build by using support vector machine theory.
► The two solutions of the optimal measurement area are discussed.
► The optimal measurement areas are solved through experiments.