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ARM UTI LI TI ES USER GUI DE

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 1
ARM UTILITIES USER GUIDE
Table of Contents

Chapter One ........................................................................ 4


Introduction and Setup.............................................................................................. 4
Chapter Two........................................................................ 7
Installation ............................................................................................................... 7
Chapter Three.................................................................... 11
Loading Arm Data (Get Armspecs from Disk) .............................................................11
Chapter Four ..................................................................... 14
Optimal Arm Handling ..............................................................................................14
Chapter Five ...................................................................... 17
Quick Function Buttons.............................................................................................17
Init (Initialize) Button .............................................................................. 17
Monitor Arm Button ................................................................................ 19
Config (Configuration) Button ................................................................ 20
Probe Tab ................................................................................................................ 20
Remote Mouse Tab ................................................................................................. 20
General Tab............................................................................................................. 22
Connection Port Tab ............................................................................................... 23
Auxiliary Reference Tab ......................................................................................... 24
Profile...................................................................................................................... 24
Video ....................................................................................................................... 25
Leap Frog Button ..................................................................................... 27
GridLOK or SpaceLOK Button ............................................................... 32
Probe Calibration Button ......................................................................... 33
A. Setup.............................................................................................................. 33
B. Single Point Calibration Method................................................................... 36
C. Plane Probe Calibration Method ................................................................... 40
D. Sphere Probe Calibration .............................................................................. 46
E. Calibration of 7-Axis Infinite Arm Probes......................................... 53
F. Length Check Out Button................................................................... 55
G. Point Checkout Button ....................................................................... 58
H. Special Functions Button ................................................................... 63
Extra Functions ....................................................................................................... 63
Leap Frog ............................................................................................................. 63
Grid Lock ............................................................................................................. 63
Arm Check .............................................................................................................. 63
Monitor Arm ........................................................................................................ 63
Probe Checkout.................................................................................................... 64
Arm Checkout Length ...................................................................................... 66
Arm Checkout Point ......................................................................................... 67
Arm Limit ............................................................................................................ 67
Calibration (all functions) ....................................................................................... 67
Chapter Six........................................................................ 68
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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 2
Menu Bar.................................................................................................................68
Connect Menu .......................................................................................... 68
Initialize................................................................................................................... 68
Reset Arm................................................................................................................ 68
Disconnect............................................................................................................... 68
Exit ..........................................................................................................................68
Calibration Menu ..................................................................................... 68
Tools Menu .............................................................................................. 69
Monitor Arm ........................................................................................................... 69
Remote Mouse ........................................................................................................ 69
Test Sound............................................................................................................... 69
Leap Frog ................................................................................................................ 69
GridLOK ................................................................................................................. 69
Special Functions .................................................................................................... 69
Configuration .......................................................................................................... 70
Help Menu................................................................................................ 70
System Info ............................................................................................................. 71
About WinRDS Utilities ......................................................................................... 71
C. Error on Loading Armspecs ............................................................... 74
Appendix A ....................................................................... 74
Arm Accuracy Issues ................................................................................................74
Appendix B ....................................................................... 77
Length Checkout Results ..........................................................................................77
2. Point Checkout Results ........................................................................................77
Appendix C ....................................................................... 81
Hook Probe Calibration .............................................................................................81
Appendix D ....................................................................... 85
Tube Probe Calibration .............................................................................................85
(Non-Contact Probe) ................................................................................................85
Appendix E ....................................................................... 93
Improved Probe Capability........................................................................................93
On Probe Changed ...................................................................................................
On Old Calibration ................................................................................................
Custom Probe Dialog...............................................................................................
Appendix F........................................................................ 98
GridLOK and SpaceLOK ............................................................................................98
GridLOK or SpaceLOK........................................................................... 98
Seats ........................................................................................................................98
Setup........................................................................................................................ 98
Starting GridLOK / SpaceLOK............................................................................... 98
Starting GridLOK / SpaceLOK from Arm Utilities ............................................ 99
Starting GridLOK / SpaceLOK from Special Functions ..................................... 99
Automatic Touch ................................................................................................. 99
Turning Off GridLOK / SpaceLOK........................................................................ 99

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 3
Chapter One
I ntroduction and Setup
This manual will describe the correct installation, and operation of the Arm Utilities
(WinRDS) Software, insuring that you will get the best performance possible.
A. Conventions Used in this Guide

This manual uses the following conventions to alert you to information that varies from
optional to critical in nature. These guidelines are used to distinguish the difference
between these passages:
NOTE: A Note is used to indicate useful, but not critical information about the operation
of your WinRDS Software. Information contained in a Note is not safety related. Advice
therein is optional.
CAUTION: A Caution highlights information that is critical to the vitality and correct
operation of your WinRDS Software. Failing to heed this advice will potentially result in
damage to your software. It is important to read the Cautions and comply with the
advice.
The unit for all measurements in Arm Utilities will be metric (mm).

B. Introduction to the CimCore Arm

1. INFINITE. On the market since late


2004, the Infinite is CimCores highest
accuracy arm and features infinite
rotation of the principal axes, intelligent
quick-change probes, carbon graphite
construction, quick-change clamping
system, and a zero-G counterbalance.

Note: The camera on the Infinite arm


will not presently function when
connected to the computer via WiFi.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 4
2. STINGER (4000). The Stinger has been around
since about 2001 and is CimCores lower cost
alternative to the Infinite. It features intelligent
quick-change probes, carbon graphite construction,
and a removable counterbalance. This arm is less
accurate than the Infinite and has rotational stops on
the principal axes.

C. Arm Setup

Refer to the Setup guide that came with the arm. It is critical that the arm is secured as
rigidly as possible to a surface. For example, if using the magnetic base, it should be
mounted to a very rigid, solid steel table. If attaching to another surface, e.g. a granite
table, dont just use one C clamp to secure the arm and expect it to measure accurately
(see the second sentence in this paragraph!). CAUTION: Before relocating the arm,
always remove the counterbalance first! (not applicable to the Infinite arm). For
Infinite Arms always make certain that the arm is vertical before dismounting the
arm. Failure to do this could result in the arm getting away from you and banging a
surface hard enough to potentially affect the measuring accuracy.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 5
D. How the Arm works. There are six rotary encoders (seven in a 7-axis arm the G
axis allows the probe shaft to rotate) in the arm; A-F below. All encoders work together
with the Arm Utilities software to produce X,Y,Z coordinates. These coordinates are
relative to the origin of the arms coordinate system shown below.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 6
Chapter Two
I nstallation
This chapter guides you through the installation of the Arm Utilities software. The Arm
Utilities software contains the drivers required for the arm to function properly. This
utility also allows you how to perform certain maintenance and diagnostic functions.
A. Installing Arm Utilities (WinRDS) and its Components
(Windows XP or Vista 32-bit)

CAUTION: This procedure is not required if the WinRDS software has already been
installed, configured, and tested prior to shipment.
NOTE: This procedure may be necessary to perform in any instance that requires a re-
install of the WinRDS software. WinRDS 5.2 can read all armspecs saved by previous
versions of WinRDS, but it will only save the data using the new format. Consequently,
any data saved by WinRDS 5.2 cannot be read by previous versions of WinRDS. This
means that if a user upgrades to WinRDS 5.2 and saves armspecs (i.e. After a probe
calibration) the arm cannot be moved to another computer running a previous version of
WinRDS without manually reloading the armspecs.

1. Turn on the computer with only the Windows operating system running.
2. Insert the Installation CD in the computers CD drive.
3. Click the START button on your computers Desktop screen.
4. From the Start menu, select the RUN option.
5. In the field use the Browse option to find the file called SETUP.EXE on your CD
ROM drive.
6. Click the OK button.
7. Follow all prompts on screen.

B. Opening Arm Utilities:

i. Click the START button on your Desktop and then follow the
menus to Program Files, CimCore, WinRDS, and CimCore Arm Utilities.
-OR-

ii. Click on the icon on your desktop


iii. Arm Utilities will try to connect to the arm and you should see the Initialize
screen appear (Next page).

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 7
If Arm Utilities indicates a problem when it tries to connect to the arm, select the
Connection Port tab and ensure that the correct setting is checked. The correct setting
will depend on which computer port your arm is connected. Next, refer to the Setup
Guide for your arm.
C. Accessing Arm Utilities Functions from PowerINSPECT
i. From the lower right corner of the
PowerINSPECT screen, RIGHT click on the
green arrow

ii. You will then see the window at right. Click on


the Special Functions selection and you will
have access to Arm Utilities functions shown
below.

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D. Accessing Arm Utilities Functions from PC-DMIS
i. If the Quick Start menu is not showing in the lower left of PC-DMIS select the
View menu, Other Windows and Quick Start as seen below.

iii. Select the CALIBRATE PROBES button as seen below.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 9
iv. The Probe Utilities window should open and look like this

v. Click on the Measure button


vi. The Special Function selection below should be now be available

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 10
Chapter Three
Loading Arm Data ( Get
Armspecs from Disk)
This Section guides you through the process of loading Arm Data. For
information on the Infinite arm, see Appendix B. . DURING NORMAL
USE OF THE ARM, THERE IS NO NEED TO CONDUCT THIS
PROCEDURE.
A. WHAT IS ARMDATA? Armdata is a folder containing the data (files)
that is unique to your arm and which was generated when the arm was last
calibrated. The Arm Utilities software must use these files in order for
your arm to measure accurately.
B. WHY WOULD YOU NEED TO LOAD ARMDATA? Your CimCore
system should already come with the Armdata properly loaded You
would normally only need to load (or re-load) Armdata
i. When changing computers that the arm is using if using an arm prior to
Infinite.
ii. When the Arm Utilities program cannot find the armdata, or any of the
armdata files were somehow corrupted.
iii. When you decide to switch from a Counterbalance to NoCounterbalance
mode of operation (and both sets of data have not already been loaded)
3000i

NOTE: ARMDATA (Armspecs, Probe files, or Profile) GENERATED IN ARM


UTILITIES VERSION 4.1 OR GREATER (for example from a calibration or
profile) MAY NOT FUNCTION IN PREVIOUS VERSIONS

C. Case i and ii above are addressed next. Case iii follows.


i. Begin by opening Arm Utilities (See Chapter 2 section B)

ii. Next, click on the Connect menu on the top menu bar (right) and select
Disconnect.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 11
iii. Get Armspecs from Disk Screen.
iv. Locate the Armdata. If it is not on the hard drive, insert the ArmSpecs
USB Flash drive (which came in the arms original case) into the
computers USB port.
v. Select the source folder that contains the Arm Data folder (typically
E:\armdata)

Updated Screen with Model Number


NOTE: For older 2000 series arms, in order to use WinRDS 4.2 it is
necessary to take some extra steps. See the Cimcore ReadMe.doc file
on the WinRDS CD.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 12
D. Testing Armdata Attach the 15mm ball probe (ensure that the pins on
the probe bottom are correctly aligned to the probe arm receptacle). Nest
the probe ball into a repeatable seat with the probe shaft vertical and the
arm in the position below. Now, articulate the arm by moving the arms
elbow from left to right while holding the arms wrist and probe shaft
fixed. You should see virtually no change in the coordinates displayed on
the Arm Utilities screen.

Testing accuracy of arm data installation

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 13
Chapter Four
Optimal Arm Handling
This chapter guides you through optimal use of the arm in conjunction with the Arm
Utilities software.
A. Arm Coordinate Dialogue Window
This window indicates that the probe is active and the arm is counting. If the number in
the Ticker box is not counting and the numbers in the X, Y, and Z Coordinate boxes do
not change when the arm is moved, the arm is not communicating with the computer.

Arm
Coordinate
Dialogue
Window

Figure 4-1. Main Screen

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 14
B. Handling of the Arm for Optimal Use
1. Cursor Control. The cursor on your
computer screen can be controlled by
movement of the CimCore arms probe.
Control of the cursor by the arm is optimal
when the arm is held in the following
configuration: The easiest way to control
the cursor is to position the lower part of
the arm parallel with the floor, the buttons
facing up, and the probe shaft pointed in
the general direction of your computer
screen. >

In this configuration you merely


pivot the probe shaft left or right to
move the cursor left or right.

To move the cursor up and down,


just rotate the wrist of the arm to
move the probe shaft up or down
(right).

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 15
2. Button Assignments.
The buttons will carry out
certain functions depending
on which software is being
used with the arm. Button
functionality is assigned in
the CimCore Arm Utilities
program and the default
setting is for the right button
to be number one, middle is
number two and the left is
number three.

3. When using the arm in


the CimCore Arm Utilities
program, button two has the
functions associated with a
left mouse click. Use this
button to take points, for
example. Button one will
delete points. Holding down
the middle button will exit
(finish) a measurement
action.
7 Axis Arm you only have a 2 Button configuration

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 16
Chapter Five
Quick Function Buttons
These buttons are designed to give quick access to the most
commonly used functions (see Figure 5-1).

Figure 5-1. Quick Reference Buttons

Init (Initialize) Button


The system is automatically initialized when you click the
WinRDS icon. The system also may be initialized
manually by clicking the Init button.
1. Click the Init button. WinRDS will begin to
communicate with the arm. The WinRDS screen will
appear as shown in Figure 5-2. Reset the arm as
follows.

Figure 5-2. WinRDS Screen


3. Place the arm in the Home Position (for reference,
see Figures 5-3 and 5-4) to reset the axes. The Home
Position is obtained by the particular placement of each
axes. The A, B, and C axes (shoulder to elbow) should
be parallel to the surface and the D, E, and F axes
(elbow to finger) should be perpendicular to the
surface.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 17
Figure 5-3. Home Position

Figure 5-4. Home Position


4. Rotate the arm by moving all the axes. As each axis is
set, you will see the bars turn blue. The H axis is used
with a Linear Rail System and will remain blue during
the reset process.
5. Once all the bars have turned blue (Figure 5-2), the user
will have mouse control while holding the inspection
system arm. The arm now acts as a 3-dimensional
mouse for screen selections while in WinRDS. The
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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 18
movement of the wrist and finger (E and F axes) allows
for fluid mouse control (see Chapter 4, Section B for
more info). The Arms middle button acts as the left
mouse button.
NOTE: All of the software functions on the screen can be
accessed using the mouse functions of the inspection
system arm.

Monitor Arm Button


1. From the Main screen click the Monitor Arm button. The Monitor
Arm screen will appear as shown in Figure 5-5.

Figure 5-5. Monitor Arm Screen


2. Place the arm in the Home Position, Figures 5-3 and 5-4. The
Encoder Readings column should be close to zero and the X, Y, and
Z coordinates should agree with the X, Y, and Z coordinates on the
Main screen. (The I, J and K boxes are vector directions.)
3. Press the three switches on the arm. The Input Signals
(SW 1, SW 2, and SW 3) should flash when the
switches on the arm are pressed.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 19
Config (Configuration) Button
The Config button gives access to the functions shown in
Figure 5-6.

Figure 5-6. Data Server Configuration Screen

Probe Tab
For most operations the Detect Automatically box should
be selected. When this box is deselected, the user must
manually select the probe. For new probe handling
information see Appendix G (Page 151).

Remote Mouse Tab


Click the Remote Mouse tab When this tab is selected, the
Remote Mouse screen will appear as shown in Figure 5-7.

Figure 5-7. Remote Mouse Function Screen


This function is preset for the inspection system arms and it
should not be necessary to change these settings. The Use
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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 20
Remote Mouse box and Boost Thread Priority box must be
selected to allow the arm to control the cursor. The Button
Assignments boxes are used to control the functions of the
three buttons on the arm.

NOTE: If you uncheck Use Remote Mouse in the


configuration Settings dialogue box, this only affects the
Arm Utilities and must be turned off specifically in the end
user application such as PC-DMIS, Power Inspect, etc
should you prefer to use the pointer only with the PCs
mouse or touch pad.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 21
General Tab
Click the General tab When this tab is selected, the
General screen will appear as shown in Figure 5-8.

Figure 5-8. General Function Screen


This function is used to select the proper Directory
depending upon the configuration of the system. If the
Counterbalance option was not purchased, Figure 5-8
shows the correct selection. If the Counterbalance option
was purchased, see Chapter Seven for a description of this
function.
The Volume Level box is used to set the volume of the arm
speaker.
The Output XYZ Scaling (%) box allows the data to be
scaled. 100% is the default setting. If you change this to
any other setting, you will get a warning screen stating that
you are about to rest the scaling factor.
To change the language that is used by WinRDS, the user
should go to the General tab of the CONFIG dialog. There
is a dropdown list that indicates all of the available
languages. The language change for all WinRDS screens is
immediate.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 22
Language Selection Screen

If you run the CONFIG dialog from within CimCore Arm


Utilities, exit and restart to see the change in the main
screen.

Connection Port Tab


Click the Connection Port tab When this tab is selected,
the Connection Port screen will appear as shown in Figure
5-9.A

Figure 5-9. Connection Port Screen


CAUTION: This function is preset for the type of arm that
you have. Do not change this setting unless advised by
appropriate Technical Support Personnel.
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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 23
Auxiliary Reference Tab
Click the Auxiliary Reference tab When this tab is
selected, the Auxiliary Reference screen will appear as
shown in Figure 5-10.

Figure 5-10. Auxiliary Reference Screen


This function is used to activate or deactivate the Linear
Axis. In order to activate Linear Rail Axis, the Arm must
have been previously calibrated to the linear rail.
Leap Frog Position (0-0). This function will allow you to
select the desired Leap Frog position. See the description
of the Leap Frog Wizard starting on Page 18.
The Rotary Axis function is used to activate or deactivate
the Rotary Axis

Profile
Profile is a value added feature within the WinRDS Arm
Utility Software program, see Figure 5-11. It is a
refinement to the global Arm accuracy, meaning it enables
the operator to bring the Arm accuracy back into
specifications throughout the measuring volume of the Arm
without the need to perform a complete calibration. Refer
to Appendix A for this procedure.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 24
Figure 5-11. Profile Screen

Video

1. If your arm is equipped with a camera, when you open


the Config function, you will not see the above window.
You will see the window below:

NOTE: THE CAMERA WILL NOT FUNCTION


WHEN THE ARM IS CONNECTED TO THE
COMPUTER VIA WIFI.

2. Select the Initialize button to activate a live camera view in the Preview
window (below)

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 25
To record a picture, either press the middle button or click on the Snap
Picture button. The picture will appear in the Captured Image portion of
the window (above). The # Pics window (above) will display the number of
images (automatically) saved in the Pictures folder of the WinRDS
directory.
3. Select the Configure button to allow adjustment of the
camera parameters (Default values shown below).

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 26
Leap Frog Button
Leap Frog Wizard is a function that allows you to extend
the measuring range of your arm by best fitting to the same
three arbitrary points both before and after moving the arm.
1. Setup. The diagram below shows an optimal setup
with which to measure a part from two positions (one
leapfrog). Merely repeat the procedure for multiple
leaps.

a. Measure everything within reach from Position 1.


Before moving the arm, measure three repeatable
points (A, B, and C above) as instructed in the steps
below. These points must be a repeatable seat, e.g.
a hole, leap frog magnet, a nut hot glued to the part
or fixture, etc. The seats do not need to be on the
part. If the seats are Not on the part, there can be no
relative movement between the part and the seats.
b. Move the arm to Position 2 and measure the same
three seats (A, B, and C) IN THE SAME ORDER.
Follow the instructions on the screen (shown later)
to continue measuring.
c. All measurements from Position 2 will now be in
proper relation to the measurements in Position 1.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 27
2. From the Main screen click the Leap Frog button. The
Leap Frog Wizard screen will appear as shown below.

Erases all
previously recorded
Leap Frog positions

. Leap. Frog Wizard Screen 1


CAUTION: If conducting more than one Leap Frog, do
not Erase All Positions. Ensure you select the correct
Position number (see screen below) to match the
current location of the arm. For example: Begin with
Position 0 and each subsequent Leap Frog position will
be one number higher (while ensuring you dont select
Erase All Positions).
3. Follow directions on this screen and when completed,
click the Next button. The Leap Frog Wizard Screen 2 will
appear as shown below.

. Leap Frog Wizard Screen 2


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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 28
4. Choose current position and click Next button. Leap
Frog Wizard Screen 3 will appear as shown below.

Leap Frog Wizard Screen 3


5. Change probe if necessary and click Next button. Leap
Frog Wizard Screen 4 will appear as shown below.

Uses data points from


last Leap Frog
measurement.
CAUTION: Before using
this option be sure you
know to which Leap
Frog position the existing
data points refer.

Leap Frog Wizard Screen 4


6. Click the Start Measure button. Measure the three
Leap Frog reference points (seats). Click the Next button.
At this point you can Erase Last Point, Restart
Measurements or click the Next button to continue. The
Leap Frog Wizard Screen 5 will appear as shown below.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 29
Leap Frog Wizard Screen 5
7. Follow the directions on the screen and click the Next
button. Leap Frog Wizard Screen 6 will appear as below.

Leap Frog Wizard Screen 6


8. Follow the directions on the screen and click the Next
button. Leap Frog Wizard Screen 7 will appear as below.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 30
. Leap Frog Wizard Screen 7
9. Follow directions on screen and click Start Measure
button.
NOTE: Make measurements in the same order as made in
previous position. For best results set up three highly
repeatable seats (to receive the probe) as far apart as
possible and preferably not all on the same surface (to
improve the best fit results).
Leap Frog Wizard Screen 8 will appear as shown below.

. Leap Frog Wizard Screen 8


10. Follow the directions on the screen and click the Finish
button.
NOTE: Contact authorized Technical Support Personnel
for further instructions on the Leap Frog function.
.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 31
GridLOK or SpaceLOK Button
The GridLOK or SpaceLOK extended referencing system
is considered an option in WinRDS. It is a versatile
locating system based upon the positioning of conical seats
installed in a concrete or an optional steel plate. If you
have GridLOK or SpaceLOK enabled, please see Appendix
H for details.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 32
Probe Calibration Button
NOTE: Performing a probe calibration is NOT required
for normal use of the CimCore arm. However, regular
probe calibrations can help ensure that the probe will
measure optimally. This procedure is only normally
needed, for example, to calibrate a new, or repaired,
probe or probe tip.

A. Setup.
i. For optimal results ensure that your CimCore arm
and the measuring artifact (a conical seat, surface
plate, or sphere) are firmly mounted to a surface.
The arm should be in the home position with the
artifact directly beneath the elbow (below)

The plate should be flat to within .075 mm. The sphere


should be certified spherical to within .000508 mm.
ii. Probe files. Ensure that you have the correct probe
file loaded in the active Armdata and Armdata.S6X
folders. The correct probe file will have a Probe
Code that matches the resistor on the particular

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 33
probe body. Open the probe file (in MS Notepad)
and ensure that the probe code and diameter are
correct. In the example below, for Probe #2 (with
6mm ball tip) you will see PCOD is set to 2.000000.
The probe diameter (PDIA) will indicate the
diameter of the probe tip. Enter zero for a non-ball
tip.

Serial Number:
LastCal=05/14/08
$$
BALL 6
PCOD 0 3.000000
PLOC 0 0.000000
PDIA 0 3.000000
PLTH 1 50.000000
PTMX 1 0.000000
PTMY 1 0.000000

NOTE: If you have two probes, i.e. probe bodies, that


have the same resistor then you must open the Arm
Utilities program and select the Config button. You
will see the window below.

Next uncheck the Detect Automatically option and


enter the Probe File number that corresponds to the
correct probe file.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 34
The method of Probe Calibration depends on the probe
type. Please refer to these respective sections for the
appropriate probe calibration. For calibrating a Power
Probe please refer to its respective section.

The following matrix describes the recommended


calibration method for each type of probe.

Probe Type Method of Calibration


POINT PLANE SPHERE
BALL *YES YES YES
POINT NO *YES NO
POWER NO YES *YES
LASER NO *YES NO
TRIGGER
HOOK NO NO *YES
TOUCH- NO NO *YES
TRIGGER
PUNCH NO *YES NO
EDGE *YES YES YES
TOOLING BALL *YES NO NO
* = RECOMMEND CALIBRATION METHOD

NOTE: ONCE THE PROBE IS CALIBRATED, USE THE PROBE


CHECKOUT FUNCTION TO CHECK ITS ACCURACY WHILE
MEASURING A CALIBRATION SPHERE. [IN ARM UTILITIES GO TO
SPECIAL FUNCTIONS\PROBE CHECKOUT ]

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 35
B. Single Point Calibration Method
1. From the Main screen click the Probe Calib button.
The Probe Calibration Method screen will appear
(below)

. Probe Calibration Method


2. Select Single Point as Method.
3. Select No for Measure Against Nominal Data.
4. Select OK.
5. Select probe number and validate if necessary.
6. Select NEXT

Uses data points from


last calibration.
CAUTION: Before using
this option make sure
you know to which
probe position the
existing data points refer.

. Single Point Probe Calibration

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 36
7. Place the probe in the conical, or trihedral, seat.
8. Click the Start Measure button. The measurements
must be taken using the middle button on the arm (use
the right button to back up by one point). Refer to the
figures below.

VERTICAL

4 2 The measurement sequence is from


the right to left. The switch button is
1 towards the rear to start the measure-
5 ment sequence.

20 20
LENGTH BAR
LEFT RIGHT
FIGURE D-3

Record one point for each of the positions shown above.


VERTICAL

4 2 The measurement sequence is from


the right to left. The switch button is
1 towards the front to start the measure-
5 ment sequence.

20 20
LENGTH BAR
LEFT RIGHT
FIGURE D-4

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 37
VERTICAL

4 2 The measurement sequence is from


the right to left. The switch button is
1 towards the right to start the measure-
5 ment sequence.

20 20
LENGTH BAR
LEFT RIGHT
FIGURE D-5

VERTICAL

4 2 The measurement sequence is from


the right to left. The switch button is
1 towards the left to start the measure-
5 ment sequence.

20 20
LENGTH BAR
LEFT RIGHT
FIGURE D-6

9. When all measurements are completed, depress and


hold down the middle button.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 38
Restart Measurements
button will restart
measurement process at
beginning.

Erase Last Point button


will erase one point each
time that it is clicked.

. Single Point Completed Measurement

10. Click the Next button (above).

Single Point Calibration


11. If the Max Error is less than or equal to 0.15, the data
can be saved by clicking the Yes button and then the Finish
button as shown below.
If the data points are not within specifications or
you want to recalculate the data, click the No
button.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 39
This button is used to
recalculate data if the
data points are close to
meeting specifications.

Single Point Probe Calibration


12. If the data points are out of specification, click the
Back button to return to the beginning of the measurement
process. Follow directions to repeat measurements.
CAUTION: The most likely cause of erroneous
calibration data is the probe slipping out of the conical
seat.
13. If the data points are close to meeting the specifications,
you can click the Repeat Calculation button to see if the
system will further refine the data. In some cases this will
occur and you will not be required to repeat the
measurement process.
14. When all calculations are completed and the data points
meet their appropriate specifications, click the Finish
button.

C. Plane Probe Calibration Method


The Plane Probe Calibration requires a surface plate or flat
plane with a flatness tolerance of .075mm.

Surface certified flat to


specification

Set the flat plane directly in front of the vertical drop of


arm (below).

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 40
1. From the Main screen click the Probe Calib button. The
Probe Calibration Method screen will appear as shown below.

. Planar Probe Calibration


2. Select Plane as Method.
3. Select Yes for Measure Against Nominal Data.
4. Select OK.
5. Install 15 MM Ball Probe (with window below).
6. Select NEXT

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 41
Plane Calibration
7. Probe Calibration Wizard screen appears as below

Plane Calibration Wizard


8. Click the Start Measure button. Measure four points on
a flat surface. Refer to Figures a-e (below) for probe
orientation

Probe angle 20 degrees


FROM VERTICAL,
Button facing right

Figure a

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 42
Probe angle 20 degrees
FROM VERTICAL,
Button facing left

Figure b

Probe angle 20 degrees


FROM VERTICAL,
Button facing in

Figure c
Probe angle 20 degrees
FROM VERTICAL,
Button facing out

Figure d

Probe angle 90 degrees

Figure e

9. When all measurements are completed, depress and hold


down the middle button.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 43
Restart Measurements
button will restart
measurement process at
beginning.

Erase Last Point button


will erase one point each
time that it is clicked.

Planar Probe Completed Measurement

10. Select Next in the window above.

11. Attach the desired probe to calibrate

12. Select Next

13. Click the Start Measure button. Measure the same number of
points on a flat surface in the same manner as with the 15mm
ball probe above. Refer to Figures a-e (above) for probe
orientation
14. When all measurements are completed, depress and hold
down the middle button. The completed measurement screen
appears as shown below.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 44
Restart Measurements
button will restart
measurement process at
beginning.

Erase Last Point button


will erase one point each
time that it is clicked.

Allows you to
add more data
points after the
measurement
sequence has
been completed

Plane 2 Completed Measurement Screen


15. Click the Next button. The SAVE probe data screen will
appear as shown below.

. Save Data Screen


16. If the Max Error is equal to or less than 0.15, the data can be
saved by clicking the Yes button and then the Finish button. If
the data points are not within specifications or you want to
recalculate the data, click the No button and the Figure below
will appear.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 45
This button is used
to recalculate data if
the data points are
close to meeting
specifications.

Repeat Screen
17. If the data points are out of specification, click the Back button
to return to the beginning of the measurement process. Follow
directions to repeat measurements.
CAUTION: The most likely cause of the data being out of
specification is the probe might have come off the surface
during measurement.
18. If the data points are close to meeting the specifications, you
can click the Repeat Calculation button to see if the system
will further refine the data. In some cases this will occur and
you will not be required to repeat the measurement process.
When all calculations are completed and the data points meet
their appropriate specifications, click the Finish button.

D. Sphere Probe Calibration


WinRDS enables the user to calibrate against a sphere by
using an easy-to-follow Calibration Wizard that guides you
step-by-step through the calibration process.
The Sphere Probe Calibration requires a certified sphere
with a tolerance of .00002 (.000508mm). Set the sphere
directly in front of the vertical drop of arm.
1. From the Main screen click the Probe Calib button. The
Probe Calibration Method screen will appear as shown in
Figure 5-37.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 46
Sphere Probe Calibration
2. Select Sphere as Method.
3. Select NO for Measure Against Nominal Data.
4. Select OK.
5. Install probe to calibrate as shown in Figure 5-38.
6. Select NEXT

Sphere Calibration
7. Probe Calibration Wizard screen appears as shown
in Figure 5-39

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 47
Sphere Calibration Wizard
8. Click the Start Measure button.
9. Record 36 points on a perfect sphere using Figure
5-40 and the accompanying table as a guide.

Top

75% Line

Equator
(50% Line)

Sphere Measurements.
10. For All Points: With the arm pointing towards the sphere,
place the sphere at the appropriate distance so both the
shoulder and the elbow joints are at 90 degrees. The probe
will point down for all measurements (below).

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 48
11. Points 1-4: With the buttons facing Right, record 4 points
spread evenly along the equator and around the sphere.

12. Points 5-8: With the buttons facing Right, record 4 points
spread evenly along the 75% Line and around sphere.
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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 49
13. Point 9: With the buttons facing Right, record 1 point on
the top of the sphere.

14. Points 10-13: With the buttons facing In, record 4 points
spread evenly along the equator and around the sphere.

15. Points 14-17: With the buttons facing In, record 4 points
spread evenly along the 75% Line and around the sphere.

16. Point 18: With the buttons facing In, record 1 point on the
top of the sphere.
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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 50
17. Points 19-22: With the buttons facing Left, record 4 points
spread evenly along the equator and around the sphere.

18. Points 23-26: With the buttons facing Left, record 4 points
spread evenly along the 75% Line and around the sphere.

19. Point 27: With the buttons facing Left, record 1 point on
the top of the sphere.

20. Points 28-31: With the buttons facing Out, record 4 points
spread evenly along the equator and around the sphere.

21. Points 32-35: With the buttons facing Out, record 4 points
spread evenly along the 75% Line and around the sphere.

22. Point 36: With the buttons facing Out, record 1 point on
the top of the sphere.

23. When all measurements are completed, depress and


hold down the middle button. The completed
measurement screen appears as below.

Restart Measurements
button will restart
measurement process at
beginning.

Erase Last Point button


will erase one point each
time that it is clicked.

Completed Measurement Screen


24. Click the Next button in Figure 5-41.
25. Enter the Nominal Sphere diameter.
26. Click the Next button in Figure 5-42.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 51
Nominal Sphere Screen
27. Click the Next button. The SAVE probe data screen
will appear as below.

. Save Data Screen


28. If the Max Error is equal to or less than 0.15, the
data can be saved by clicking the Yes button and then the
Finish button. If the data points are not within
specifications or you want to recalculate the data, click the
No button and the screen below will appear.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 52
This button is used
to recalculate data if
the data points are
close to meeting
specifications.

Repeat Calculation
29. If the data points are out of specification, click the
Back button to return to the beginning of the measurement
process. Follow directions to repeat measurements.
30. CAUTION: The most likely cause of the data
being out of specification is the probe might have come off
the surface during measurement.
31. If the data points are close to meeting the
specifications, you can click the Repeat Calculation
button to see if the system will further refine the data. In
some cases this will occur and you will not be required to
repeat the measurement process. When all calculations are
completed and the data points meet their appropriate
specifications, click the Finish button.

E. Calibration of 7-Axis Infinite Arm


Probes

1. For Infinite 2.0 Arms the Male TKJ probes (see picture
below) install into the Offset(Upper) Port and Female TKJ
Probes install in the Center Port. For Infinite Arms the
9Pin Probes install in the Offset Port and the 13 Pin Probes
in the Center.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 53
2. The calibration procedure is the same for both center
and offset probes.
a. First, seat the probe and articulate around the F axis
while taking about 10 points.

b. Then, take the remaining 10 points while


articulating around the G axis (hold the E axis still)
as below

c. Evaluate the probe calibration by performing an


Arm Checkout-Point. The Range/2 values should
be less than .150mm for X, Y, and Z.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 54
F. Length Check Out Button
A. WHAT IS LENGTH CHECKOUT? This procedure will
determine whether the arm will measure within its published
accuracy specifications. You will be measuring the length of the
calibration bar 5 times (with the arm in a different position for
each point taken) and checking each length to the nominal bar
length plus or minus the tolerance (See Appendix D).
B. PROCEDURE
To perform a Length Check Out, a Certified Length Standard
Bar or equivalent is required to prevent errors in length
measurements. Use the calibration bar that came with your
CimCore arm. For optimum results, position the center of
the bar in front of the arm. The bar should be the length from
the base to the elbow away from the base of the arm. (See
below: The bar center should be directly under the probe
with the arm in this home position). Important: The bar
needs to be securely fixed to the same table as the arm, and
both the arm and bar need to be stable. Do not over clamp
the bar to the table or it will cause the bar to deflect and
change the overall length of the bar.

2. Access the Length Checkout utility in one of two ways:

i. Click the START button on your


Desktop and then follow the menus to Program
Files, CimCore, WinRDS, and CimCore Arm
Utilities.
OR

ii. Click on the icon on your desktop. The Arm


Utilities Screen (below) will appear.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 55
3. From the Main screen click the Length Check Out
button. When the screen below appears, click the Next
button.

Length Checkout Wizard Screen 1

4. You will then see the window below. Follow the


instructions on the screen.

Length Checkout Wizard Screen 2

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 56
5. Click the Start Measure button. IT IS IMPORTANT
THAT YOU MAKE THE CENTER BEAM OF THE
ARM CLOSE TO HORIZONTAL. This will articulate
the arm and replicate the normal movement it
undergoes when you are measuring.
6. Position the probe ball in the right ends conical seat
and click the center button to take a point. The Erase Last
Point button erases the last point measured and the Restart
Measurement button returns to the first screen in wizard.
The right button will also erase the last point, should you
happen to take an erroneous point.
7. Proceed to take the next point (you will be taking 10
points). When all measurements are completed, the next
screen in the wizard will appear (below).

Completed Measurements Screen


8. If any measurements need to be retaken, the Back
button or the Restart Measurements button can be used to
return to the start of the measurement process. If all
measurements are completed, click the Next button and the
last screen in the wizard will appear (below).

Clears data
from log file.

Allows user to
view data in
active log.

Adds measured
data to a log
(text) file.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 57
. Length Checkout Wizard Screen

9. If your arm is measuring within spec, each length will


be equal to the nominal bar length plus or minus the length
tolerance for your arm, AND the Range/2 number will be
less than the length accuracy tolerance for your arm. For
accurate length accuracy specifications, go to
www.cimcore.com or contact Technical Support.
10. When completed, click the Finish button.

G. Point Checkout Button


A. WHAT IS POINT CHECKOUT (or Arm Checkout-
Point)? This is the definitive way to determine the arms
point repeatability and will determine whether the arm will
measure within its published accuracy specifications. You
will be measuring 8-10 points with the probe seated in a
repeatable seat while articulating the arm (move the elbow
from left to right while keeping the probe shaft vertical).
See Appendix D.
B PROCEDURE
To perform a Point Check Out, a Certified Point Standard
A trihedral seat or equivalent, e.g. a reasonably well
machined hole with a diameter slightly smaller that the
probe ball diameter. For optimum results, position the seat
in front of the arm. The seat should be the length from the
base to the elbow away from the base of the arm. (See
below: The seat should be directly under the probe with
the arm in this home position).

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 58
1. Access the Point Checkout utility in one of two
ways:

i. Click the START button on your


Desktop and then follow the menus to Program Files,
CimCore, WinRDS, and CimCore Arm Utilities.
OR

a. Click on the icon on your desktop. The Arm


Utilities Screen (below) will appear.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 59
2. From the Main screen click the Point Check Out
button. When the screen below appears, click the Next
button.

Point Checkout Wizard Screen 1

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 60
3. You will then see the window below. Follow the
instructions on the screen.

Point Checkout Wizard Screen2


4. Click the Start Measure button. IT IS IMPORTANT
THAT YOU ARTICULATE THE ARM (This will
articulate the arm and replicate the normal movement
it undergoes when you are measuring).

5. Position the probe ball in the seat with the probe shaft
vertical and click the center button to take a point. The
Erase Last Point button erases the last point measured and
the Restart Measurement button returns to the first screen
in wizard. The right button will also erase the last point,
should you happen to take an erroneous point.
6. Proceed to take about 10 points (you must take a
minimum of 5) with the arm articulated in a different
position for each point (see Para. 4 above). When all
measurements are completed, the next screen in the wizard
will appear (below).

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 61
Restart Measurements
button will restart
measurement process at
beginning.

Erase Last Point button


will erase one point each
time that it is clicked.

Allows you to add more


data points after the
measurement sequence
has been completed.

Completed Measurements Screen


7. If any measurements need to be retaken, the Erase Last
Point button or the Restart Measurements or Back button
can be used to return to the start of the measurement
process. If all measurements are completed, click the Next
button and the last screen in the wizard will appear (below).

Adds measured
data to a log
(text) file.

Allows user to
view data in
active log.

Clears data
from log file.

Point Checkout Wizard Screen

8. If your arm is measuring within spec, the Range/2


number for each X, Y, and Z axis will be less than the
corresponding Point accuracy figure for your arm. For
accurate Point accuracy specifications, go to
www.cimcore.com or contact Technical Support.
When completed, click the Finish button.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 62
H. Special Functions Button
This button has been added to the Quick Function buttons
as a method to access the Special Functions included on the
Tools menu. The Data Server Special Functions screen
will appear as shown in Figure 5-65. The Arm Check and
Calibration functions were placed on this screen for
convenience of the advanced user to allow full calibration
from one screen. These functions are also available under
the Calibration drop down menu. See Table on Page 70
for location the functions listed on this screen.

Figure 5-65. Special Functions Screen

Extra Functions

Leap Frog
Refer to Chapter 5 in this guide for the description.

Grid Lock
Refer to Appendix H in this guide for the description.

Profile
Refer to Appendix A for a full description.

Arm Check

Monitor Arm
Function used to view Encoder counts.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 63
Tuneup Arm
This function has been replaced by Profile (above).

Probe Checkout
WinRDS allows for the probe to be checked for accuracy
by using an easy-to-follow Probe Checkout Wizard that
guides you step-by-step through the process.

1. From the Main menu click the Special Functions


button.
2. From the Special Functions screen click the Probe
Checkout button. The Probe Checkout Wizard screen
will appear, Figure 5-66.

Figure 5-66. Probe Checkout Wizard Screen 1

3. Attach the 15 mm ball probe and click Next button.


The next screen in the wizard appears, Figure 5-67.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 64
Figure 5-67. Probe Checkout Wizard Screen 2

4. Click the Start Measure button. Using the Ball Probe,


record at least 4 points on a perfect sphere to create
your nominal sphere using Figure 5-68.

75% Line

Equator
(50% Line)

Figure 5-68. Sphere Measurements.

5. When measurements are complete, click Next button.


The Completed Measurements screen appears, Figure
5-69.

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Figure 5-69. Completed Measurements Screen

6. Click the Next button, the last screen in the Wizard


appears, Figure 5-70.

Figure 5-70. Results Screen

7. Click the Finish button.

Arm Checkout Length


Refer to the appropriate section in this guide for the
description.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 66
Arm Checkout Point
Refer to the appropriate section in this guide for the
description.

Arm Limit
Contact Technical Support for information on this function.

Calibration (all functions)


Refer to the Calibration and Acceptance Manual made
available during calibration training.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 67
Chapter Six
Menu Bar
The Menu bar consists of four items: Connect,
Calibration, Tools, and Help drop down menus. Each of
these drop down menus has several selections and
Calibration has several sub selections.

Figure 6-1. Menu Bar

Connect Menu
The Connect menu, Figure 6-1, consists of the following
items: Initialize, Reset Arm, Disconnect, and Exit.

Initialize
Initialization occurs automatically when the system is
turned on. If the Arm is connected and is communicating,
this item will not be activated. (See Page 12 for additional
information on this function.)

Reset Arm
Typically, the arm is reset when you initialize the system.
This function allows you to reset the arm axes without
requiring the need to disconnect the arm and then
reinitializing the arm. (See Page 12 for additional
information on this function.)

Disconnect
Selecting this item causes the arm to be disconnected from
the software without the requirement to exit the software.
This is necessary during the following operations:
Download Firmware, Arm Diagnosis, and when switching
between counterbalance and no-counterbalance
configuration (see Chapter Seven).

Exit
Selecting this item exits the program.

Calibration Menu
Calibration of different probe types is covered in Chapter 5
and is not repeated in this chapter for the purpose of
brevity.
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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 68
Tools Menu
The Tools menu consists of the following items: Monitor
Arm, Remote Mouse, Test Sound, Leap Frog, LGPS,
Special Functions, Down Load Firmware, Arm Diagnosis,
and Configuration.

Monitor Arm
This particular function is covered in Chapter Five and is
not repeated in this chapter for the purpose of brevity. (See
Page14 for additional information on this function.)

Remote Mouse
This function is inactive. The function is not fully
developed and may cause an error. (See Page 15 for
additional information on this function.

Test Sound
Select this item to test the Arm sound mechanism.

Leap Frog
This particular function is covered in Chapter Five and is
not repeated in this chapter for the purpose of brevity.

GridLOK
This particular function is covered in Chapter Five and is
not repeated in this chapter for the purpose of brevity.

Special Functions
Select the Special Functions item from the Tools menu.
The Data Server Special Functions screen will appear as
shown in Figure 6-1. The Arm Check and Calibration
functions were placed on this screen for convenience of the
advanced user to allow full calibration from one screen.
These functions are also available under the Calibration
drop down menu.

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 69
Figure 6-2. Data Server Special Functions Screen
As a convenience to the user the table below has been
provided as a quick reference to locating the functions
listed on this screen.
Quick Reference for Special Functions Screen
Function Page No.
Leap Frog 32
GridLOK or SpaceLOK 38
Monitor Arm 74
Arm Limit 78
Probe Checkout 75
Arm Checkout Length 65
Arm Checkout Point 69
Arm
Probe Limit
Calibration 57
41

**CAUTION: The only calibration procedures that may be


performed without prior training are Ball Probe and Point
Probe Calibrations. All other procedures require the user to
be trained by a qualified technician.

Configuration
See Page 15 for additional information on this function.

Help Menu
The Help menu consists of the following items: System Info and
About WinRDS Utilities.

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System Info
This screen describes the properties of the system and software.

Figure 6-3. System Info Screen

About WinRDS Utilities


This screen indicates the software version of your program.
It may also indicate the runcode and USB firmware
versions.

Figure 6-4. About WinRDS Utilities Screen

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3. I nitial Running of Arm Utilities

A. First Run After Installation

1. No Onboard Armspecs (Stinger, 3000i, older


INFINITES see Table B-2)
If this is a first time installation, or the previous armspecs
files were deleted manually, the Insert disk screen appears,
Figure B-2.

Figure B-2. Insert Disk Screen

Follow the prompts to locate the ARMDATA and


ARMDATA.S6X folders. The data will be copied to the
PC and arm operation will begin.

If previous armspec files are found, the following dialog


comes up, Figure B-3.

Figure B-3. WinRDS Screen

Click Yes if you are sure the data is correct for the arm.
Click No and the software will proceed as if no armspecs
had been found.

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2. With Onboard Armspecs
You will see the following progress dialog box appear,
Figure B-4.

FigureB-4. Progress Screen

After it finishes arm operation will begin.

B. After First Run

1. No Onboard Armspecs

Same as prior versions of WinRDS.

2. With Onboard Armspecs


Same as First Run.

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Appendix A
Arm Accuracy I ssues
1. If it appears that your CimCore arm does not measure accurately you can save
yourself some time and effort by considering the issues below before calling CimCore
Technical Support. These are the same issues that Tech Support will address with you to
determine the root cause of any potential problems. It is important to keep in mind that
the CimCore arm is just one part of any measuring system. A complete measurement
system would consist of:

A. The Instrument (the CimCore Arm)


1. Determining Accuracy and Repeatability
2. Applied properly
3. Mounted rigidly

B. The Environment
1. Temperature
2. Vibration
3. Power Supply
4. Lighting
5. Cleanliness

C. The Part or Item (Artifact) Being Measured


1. Material
2. Form Errors
3. Surface Finish
4. Mounting (fixture)

D. The Operator
1. Level of training
2. Experience
3. Attention to detail

E. The Inspection Method


1. Measurement program (part program).
a. Ensures that the operator measures the right thing
2. Instrument appropriate for tolerance being measured
a. As a minimum consider 1 to 4 ratio of accuracy to tolerance
3. Everyone runs the program the same way
a. Well defined process

THIS APPENDIX WILL ONLY FOCUS ON A AND B ABOVE


Each of the parts of the (above) measuring process has the potential to introduce error.
How to determine what is an acceptable level of error is beyond the scope of this
document. A general approach is to do a Gage R&R study with three trained operators.
This is a good tool for finding the tightest possible accuracy numbers. It has the added
benefit that when you are satisfied that you have the best possible repeatability from the

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complete measurement system you will have a useful number for the measuring
uncertainty of the measurement system.

2. The Arm Accuracy-Point (SPAT) check and Arm Accuracy-Length (Length)


check in Arm Utilities are THE pass / fail criteria for the arm (see Chapter 5).
Perform both checks by following the procedures in Chapter 5 and evaluate the
results using Appendix D. This must be done in a lab, at 20C, on a solid and rigid
steel table. The arm should be allowed to acclimate to the environment for at least
two hours. The checks should be performed with the arm on its magnetic base. The
15mm probe should be used for all accuracy checks. This is the setup in which the
arms are calibrated and certified. ANY DEPARTURE FROM THIS SETUP WILL
ADD ERROR.

For the Length check there are three criteria for Pass / Fail (see Appendix D):
1. The Range / 2 must be less than or equal to the arms Length accuracy
specification.
2. The Max Length must be less than or equal to the nominal length of the bar plus
the arm length accuracy.
3. The Min Length must be greater than or equal to the nominal length of the bar
minus the length accuracy of the arm

If the arm does not pass consider the following:

A. Setup
How are the arm and artifact (part) mounted? Both must be mounted as rigidly as
possible to eliminate any potential relative movement. Is the artifact free of any dirt or
grease? Is it clamped or bolted securely to the same surface as the arm? Is the arm
mounted on a stand? If so, is the stand set up properly? Are all of the fasteners tight on
the stand? Is the floor under the stand solid? If not then move the arm to somewhere that
has a solid floor, or mount the arm directly to the part being measured.

B. Armdata
Run the Get Armspecs function in this guide to ensure that the correct Armdata is
being used. This should be the Armdata from the last certified calibration. If the arm has
been Profiled or probes have been calibrated but the data was not copied to the Armspecs
disk, then the arm cannot error map properly. In that case, the probe(s) may need to be
re-calibrated or a new Profile conducted.

C. Probes
The arms kinematic probe seat is very repeatable but can be vulnerable to wear or dirt.
Are the grooves in the base of the probe and the pins on the probe receptacle clean? Is
the probe mounted correctly and tightly? Check that the tip is not loose from the probe
body. Check point tips carefully for chips. Calibrate the 15mm ball probe (using this
guide) and repeat the Length or SPAT checkout. Next, use the Probe Checkout function
in Arm Utilities which will have you measure a calibration (nominal) sphere to certify
the probe calibration. The probe calibration is good if the measured diameter equals the
nominal plus or minus the Length specification for the arm. If the probe calibration was
good, the probes should measure repeatably even after removing and re-installing them.

D. Base of the Arm

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 75
The base is the area with the most potential for error. If using the magnetic base on a
steel table ensure all magnets are on and tight. Are the fasteners on the magnets tight? Is
the surface of the table smooth enough so that a magnet is not sitting on a burr, or a high
spot? Consider performing an SPAT checkout and comparing the results with a SPAT
performed with the arms base plate bolted directly to the surface (without the magnets).
If the results are worse, then the magnets may be the problem. Bottom line: If the Range
/ 2 value for Z is disproportionately higher than X and Y, then the arm is not mounted
securely and is rocking as the elbow is articulated.

E. Profile. Consider doing a Profile on the arm (see Appendix A). Generally a Level 1
or Level 2 Profile is all that is needed to bring an arm back into spec.

3.. THE ENVIRONMENT

A. Temperature. Understanding the effect of temperature is VERY important. A


temperature variation of 3C from 20C will have a 0.026mm effect on a 711 mm
calibration bar. This change could represent anywhere from 30-80% of the arms
length tolerance! The effect would, of course, be worse on a longer (1016mm) cal bar.

B. Vibration. The measuring environment should meet the specifications for vibration
that can be found by contacting Romer CimCore Technical Support. If possible, it is best
to subject the arm to as little vibration as possible.

C. Power Supply. It is vital that the power source for the arm be properly grounded.
This normally may not be an issue in North America or Europe but could in other areas.
It is also recommended to run the arm (and the computer) on a power conditioner.

D. Lighting. While not normally an issue, extraordinary lighting conditions could have
an affect on specific probes. Laser probes and non-contact (infrared) probes may be
affected by certain lighting conditions. If you suspect this is the case, try using the arm in
a normal lighting environment to see if it improves performance.

4. HINTS TO IMPROVE ACCURACY


A. Calibrate the probe every time you change it.
B. Super Calibrate the Probe: Measure a known gage, e.g. ring gage or calibration
sphere, and adjust the probe file manually. If the measured gage dimension
reads small, it means the probe ball diameter is less than probe files nominal.
The solution would be to reduce the nominal probe diameter in the probe file
(found in the active Armdata folder) by of the measured error.
C. Mount the Arm Directly to the Table No Magnets

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3/30/2009 Arm Utilities User Guide 76
Appendix B
Length Checkout Results

1. Complete the Length Checkout (see Chapter 5)


2. Enter the tables on the following pages with your arms Model and Serial Number
a. Find the page that corresponds to the model (type) of arm that you have,
e.g. an Infinite (5000) or Stinger (4000) arm
b. Model number is the first 4 digits found on the silver label on your arm
c. Serial number is last 3 digits after the hyphen (-) on the Model number
2. Find the Length tolerance (LthTol) that corresponds to your Model/Serial number
3. Add and subtract this number (LthTol) from the nominal length of your
calibration bar to help determine the arms ACCURACY
Example: LthTol = .071mm

Bar length = 711.237


- .030
711.207

+ .030
711.267
4. Every length measured should fall between the above calculated values
5. If not, re-measure all lengths to ensure there was no operator or setup error
(SEE APPENDIX C!).

REPEATABILITY
6. The measured Range/2 value should be less than the Length tolerance (LthTol)

2. Point Checkout Results

1. This procedure ONLY checks the arms repeatability


2. Complete the Point Checkout (See Chapter 5)

REPEATABILITY
3. The measured Range/2 value for X, Y, and Z should each be less than the Point
Tolerance (PtTol)
4. If the Z value is significantly higher than the X and Y values, your arm setup may
be allowing for some rocking of the arm with its base.

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Stinger Arms 4000 & 4100
[RANGE / 2]

4018 4024
0 To 102 0 To 117
PtTol = 0.07 PtTol = 0.095
LthTol = 0.1 LthTol = 0.135
>= 103 >= 118
PtTol = 0.040 PtTol = 0.050
LthTol = 0.055 LthTol = 0.07

4030 4036
0 To 117 0 To 108
PtTol = 0.125 PtTol = 0.15
LthTol = 0.175 LthTol = 0.215
>= 118 >= 109
PtTol = 0.08 PtTol = 0.11
LthTol = 0.11 LthTol = 0.155

4046
All
PtTol = .200
LthTol = .285

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I nfinite Arms 5000 & 5100
[RANGE / 2]

5012 5018 5024

PtTol = 0.010 PtTol = 0.016 PtTol = .020


LthTol = 0.015 LthTol = 0.023 LthTol = .029

5028 5030 5036

PtTol = 0.029 PtTol = 0.034 PtTol = 0.050


LthTol = 0.041 LthTol = 0.050 LthTol = 0.068

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7 Axis I nfinite Arms 5000 & 5100
[RANGE / 2]

5012 5018 5024

PtTol = 0.016 PtTol = 0.024 PtTol = .028


LthTol = 0.023 LthTol = 0.035 LthTol = .040

5028 5030 5036

PtTol = 0.045 PtTol = 0.050 PtTol = 0.070


LthTol = 0.064 LthTol = 0.071 LthTol = 0.100

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Appendix C
Hook Probe Calibration
To perform a Hook Probe Calibration in WinRDS 2.3.3 (or higher), a sphere is required
to prevent spatial movement but still allow for rotational movement.
1. From the Main screen click the PROBE CALIB button. The Ball Probe
Calibration Wizard screen will appear as shown in Figure 1-1.

Figure 1-1. Ball Probe Calibration Wizard Screen 1


2. Select Sphere as METHOD YES to measure against nominal data.
3. Select OK
4. Install 15mm ball probe and click Next button as shown in Figure 1-2.

Figure 1-2. Ball Probe Calibration Wizard Screen 2

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1. Using the 15mm ball probe, record 36 points on a perfect sphere to create your
nominal sphere using Figure 1.3 and the accompanying table as a guide.

Top
75% Line

Equator
(50% Line)

Figure 1.3. Sphere Measurements.


For All Points: With the arm pointing towards the sphere, place the sphere at the appropriate
distance so both the shoulder and the elbow joints are at 90 degrees. The probe will point down
for all measurements.
Points 1-4: With the buttons facing Right, record 4 points spread evenly along the equator and
around the sphere.
Points 5-8: With the buttons facing Right, record 4 points spread evenly along the 75% Line and
around the sphere.
Point 9: With the buttons facing Right, record 1 point on the top of the sphere.
Points 10-13: With the buttons facing In, record 4 points spread evenly along the equator and
around the sphere.
Points 14-17: With the buttons facing In, record 4 points spread evenly along the 75% Line and
around the sphere.
Point 18: With the buttons facing In, record 1 point on the top of the sphere.
Points 19-22: With the buttons facing Left, record 4 points spread evenly along the equator and
around the sphere.
Points 23-26: With the buttons facing Left, record 4 points spread evenly along the 75% Line and
around the sphere.
Point 27: With the buttons facing Left, record 1 point on the top of the sphere.
Points 28-31: With the buttons facing Out, record 4 points spread evenly along the equator and
around the sphere.
Points 32-35: With the buttons facing Out, record 4 points spread evenly along the 75% Line and
around the sphere.
Point 36: With the buttons facing Out, record 1 point on the top of the sphere.

2. When all 36 point have been recorded, hold the middle button long to end the measurement
sequence and press the Next > key to advance to the next frame of the Calibration Wizard as
shown in Figure 1.5.

CAUTION: It is extremely important to have a light touch when calibrating a hook


probe to minimize probe deflection.

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3. When all measurements are completed the measurement diagram disappears and
the Next button becomes activated as shown in Figure 1-3.

Figure 1-3. Ball Probe Completed Measurement Screen


4. Click the Next button. The third screen in the ball probe calibration wizard will
appear as shown in Figure 1-4.

Figure 1.4. Ball Probe Calibration Wizard Screen 3


5. Attach the Hook Probe to be calibrated and select Next.
6. Follow the same sphere measurement procedure as performed with the 15mm ball
probe.
7. When measurements are complete Select Next.
8. Enter Sphere diameter as shown in Figure 1-5

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Figure 1.5. Ball Probe Calibration Wizard Screen 4
9. If the calibration numbers meet specifications, the data can be saved by clicking
the Yes button and then the Finish button. If the data points are not within
specifications or you want to recalculate the data, click the No button and the
fourth screen in the wizard will appear as shown in Figure 1-6.

Figure 1-6. Ball Probe Calibration Wizard Screen 4

If the data points are out of specification, click the Back button to return to the To
perform a Hook Probe Checkout, a calibrated sphere fastened securely is required to
allow for repeatable measurements. Currently the best method to verify the Hook Probe
is through PowerInspect version 1355 or higher.
6. CAUTION: A likely cause of erroneous calibration data is the probe slipping out
of the conical seat. Be sure that the probe is firmly secured in the conical seat.
7. If the data points are close to meeting the specifications, you can click the Repeat
Calculation button to see if the system will further refine the data. In some cases this
will occur and you will not be required to repeat the measurement process. When all

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calculations are completed and the data points meet their appropriate specifications, click
the Finish button.
To perform a Hook Probe Checkout, a calibrated sphere fastened securely is required to
allow for repeatable measurements. Currently the best method to verify the Hook Probe
is through PowerInspect version 1355 or higher.

Appendix G
Tube Probe Calibration
( Non-Contact Probe)
WinRDS allows for the calibration of the Tube Probe (Non Contact Probe) by
using an easy-to-follow Calibration Wizard that guides you step-by-step through
the calibration process.
There are a few general facts that you should be aware of before starting:
The Measuring System must be calibrated before the operator calibrates
the Non-contact Probe. All dimensions are approximate values. All
arm clockings are approximate values.
The operator must select the correct probe file for the non-contact probe.
A copy of the nominal probe file must be included in the
ARMDATA and the ARMDATA.6SX directories.
The operator must have a T-Bar for the calibration procedure. The T-bar
must not move during the calibration procedure. The T-bar should be
set up directly in front of the Measuring System and approximately
line up with the vertical drop of the Measuring System.
The Measuring System should approximately form 90 angles at all the
joints.
The view of the pictorials (included in the following procedure is from
the operator to the Measuring System. The pictorial numbers indicate
the probe position during the measurement sequence.
There are sixteen measurements in the probe data sets, one through four.
These are the cylindrical measurements. There are twenty
measurements in the probe data sets, five through eight. These are the
planar measurements.
There are two sweeps per cylindrical measurement. The operator will
record four data points on the downward scan and four data points on
the upward scan. Therefore, the operator will record eight data points
per sweep. There will be sixteen data points per cylindrical
measurement sequence.

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1. From the Calibration menu, select Tube Probe Calibration, Figure F-1 or from the
Special Function screen, click the Tube Probe Calibration button, Figure F-2.

Figure F-1. Calibration Menu Screen

Figure F-2. Special Functions Screen

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2. The Select a Probe Number screen appears, Figure F-3.

Figure F-3. Select a Probe Number Screen


3. Select Probe Number 7 and click the Next button.

4. The Start Measurements screen will appear, Figure F-4.

Figure F-4. Start Measurement Screen

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5. Figure F-5 shows the sequence of the cylindrical measurements for each probe set.

Figure F-5. Cylindrical Measurement Sequence

6. Figure F-6 shows the cylindrical measurement pattern for the T-Bar. (The view is
from the operator to the Measuring System.)

This is the position for the second sweep of probe sets 3 and 4. This is the position for the first sweep of probe
The probe button is towards the right for probe set 3. The probe sets 3 and 4. The probe button is towards the right
button is towards the left for probe set 4. for probe set 3. The probe button is towards the left
for probe set 4.
TOP
(3,4) (3,4)

Left Right
(2) (1)

This is the position for the first sweep of probe data set two. This is the position for the first sweep of probe set one.
The probe button is up for this measurement sequence. The probe button is down for this measurement sequence.

(2) (1)

This is the position for the second sweep of probe set two. This is the position for the second sweep of probe set one.
The probe button is up for this measurement sequence. The probe button is down for this measurement sequence.

BOTTOM
Figure F-6. Cylindrical Measurement for the T-Bar

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7. There are five scans per planar measurement. The operator records two data points
by sweeping the end and then records two data points by reversing the sweeping action.
The operator records four points per end scan. There are twenty data points per planar
measurements sequence.
8. The following figures show the planar measurement sequence for each probe set.

When the operator performs the first


end scan, the noncontact probe should
be perpendicular to the end of the T-Bar.

Figure F-7

When the operator performs the second end


scan, the noncontact probe should be rotated
towards the front approximately twenty degrees.

Figure F-8

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When the operator performs the third end scan, the
noncontact probe should be rotated towards the rear
approximately twenty degrees.

Figure F-9

When the operator performs the fourth end scan,


the noncontact probe should be rotated towards
the top approximately twenty degrees.

Figure F-10

When the operator performs the fifth end scan, the


noncontact probe should be rotated towards the
bottom approximately twenty degrees.

Figure F-11
9. Figure F-12 shows the planar measurement pattern for the T-Bar. (The view is
from the operator of the Measuring System.)

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TOP
Left Right
The probe sets seven and
eight are scanned at this end. The probe sets five and six are scanned
The probe button is towards at this end. The probe button is towards
the right for probe set seven. the left for probe set five. The probe
The probe button is towards button is towards right for probe set six.
the left for probe set eight..

BOTTOM
Figure F-12. Planar Measurement for the -Bar

10. When all eight (8) sets of measurements are completed, click the Next button,
Figure F-13.

Figure F-13. Set Eight Measurement Screen

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11. When you click Next button, the Calibrate Tube Probe screen appears, Figure F-14.

Figure F-14. Calibrate Tube Probe Screen

12. In the T-Bar Diameter box enter the diameter of the T-Bar and in the T-Bar Length
enter the length of the T-Bar (Calibrate button enabled).
13. Click the Calibrate button. When the calibration is complete, the Save probe data
screen appears, Figure F-15.

Figure F-15. Save Probe Data Screen

Calibration is now complete. Click the Finish button.

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Appendix G
I mproved Probe Capability

Unique 16 Hex digit ID available for TKJ style probes along with nominal data *

*Requires Infinite 2.0 Arm with upgraded hardware, WinRDS 5.2 and Runcode 3

Probe may be used on any arm. No probe files needed.

No calibration data found for this probe. If probe had been known to the arm, no user action is required.

Guided procedure for probes not previously calibrated on this arm

Default calibration method is selected as per probe type, ie.

BALL Single Point


POINT Plane
Contact Sphere
NC TBar

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Dialog to set calibration preferences for probes

On Probe Changed

WinRDS detects a probe change. The following options are available:

Do Nothing - Continue
Recommend Calibration A dialog appears alerting the user. The user may choose to ignore it, or go to
the proper calibration screen.
Force Calibration - A dialog appears alerting the user. The user must go to the proper calibration screen or
cancel. If cancel is selected the arm will not allow measurements until the probe is calibrated.

On Old Calibration

WinRDS detects that the probe was last calibrated beyond the Max Days value. The options available are
the same as above.

Warn on Configurable Probe Change

Probes may be designated as Configurable which means that the tip or body size can be altered by the user.
If this item is selected (Default) WinRDS will warn the user each time it detects a probe change involving
configurable probes. Uncheck the box to defeat this warning.

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Probe Designer Dialog
Create nominal values for probes:
By manual means

By file for known part numbers

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By Copying Existing Probe File

By dropdown for Probe Kit

Configurable Probes
Probes may be designated as Configurable which means that the tip or body size can be altered by the user.
All Probe Kit-designed probes are designated as configurable. There is also a Configurable check box
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which can be used to make any probe configurable. Use the Advanced button to see the checkbox if
desired.

This probe attribute is saved on the probe itself in a binary format, as well as in the text-readable probe file.
See Probe File Header for more information.

When WinRDS detects a probe change involving a Configurable probe, it warns the user as shown below.
The user can answer NO to continue, or YES to bring up the Probe Designer dialog to modify the probe
nominals. Uncheck the Warn on Configurable Probe Change box in the Probe Calibration dialog to turn
off this warning.

Calibration Probes
Probes may be designated as Calibration Probes which means they are used for calibration and may, or may
not be shipped to a customer. The following probe files have this designation:

When WinRDS detects a probe change involving a Calibration probe AND the presence of the calibration
password, it warns the user as shown below. The user can answer NO to continue, or YES to remove the
calibration attribute. Normally any calibration probe that is to be shipped with the arm should have the
attribute removed at this time.

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Appendix F
GridLOK and SpaceLOK

GridLOK or SpaceLOK
The GridLOK or SpaceLOK extended referencing system
is considered an option in WinRDS. It is a versatile
locating system based upon the positioning of conical seats
installed in a concrete or an optional steel plate. Each of
the conical seats are permanently flush mounted and valued
by a laser tracker.

Seats
The seats (measuring points) are installed in the floor of the
work area. The seats are deliberately placed at slightly
irregular distances. This minor irregularity makes every set
of three triangular, adjacent seats a unique pattern set. The
WinRDS program identifies every triangular three seat
group, thereby always knowing where the arm is located
in the grid.

Setup
The setup steps below should normally have already been
accomplished for your system by a qualified CimCore
technician. Do not perform these steps unless directed
by CimCore personnel.

1. Attach the WinRDS SID (dongle) before launching the


Application.
2. Select a gridlock file using the Select button on the
Auxilliary Reference tab of the Config dialog.

GridLOK / SpaceLOK is now be ready.

Starting GridLOK / SpaceLOK


There are three ways to start the GridLOK module within
WinRDS. Two approaches require Arm Utilities to be
running. The third and preferred method is the automatic
touch method.

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Starting GridLOK / SpaceLOK from Arm Utilities
1. From the Arm Utilities program main menu, click the
GridLOK button.
2. Follow the on-screen directions.

Starting GridLOK / SpaceLOK from Special


Functions
1. From the Special Functions program menu, click the
GridLOK button.
2. Follow the on-screen directions.

Automatic Touch
1. Measure any three seats in an adjacent triangular
pattern. A GridLOK is On confirmation appears. See
Figure below

Turning Off GridLOK / SpaceLOK


1. To turn off the GridLOK module, execute three
consecutive probe contacts to the SAME seat. Be sure
to slightly pause between each contact. See below.
Dialog to select GriDLOK UI options

Show Best Fit When selected, GridLOK popup will display additional information, including best fit of
the lockin.
Beep on Hit When selected, WinRDS will beep for each stable point measured (Sound 1) and for a
successful 3 point lockin (Sound 2).
Stop F axis flick When selected, the GridlOK popup may not be dismissed by flicking the F axis.
Time (secs) Number of seconds the GridLOK popup remains open if not dismissed.
Max Best Fit (mm) Typically .1, but the user may change as desired.

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Graphical representation of LOK-in pattern

Dialog to select gridlock files

GridLOK files may be given descriptive names ending in _gridfile.dat. Multiple files may be stored in the
armdata folder (and on the onboard armspecs area). The select button in the GridLOK dialog allows the
user to change the active GridLOK file.

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