Roque Calvo

Integration of Error Compensation of Coordinate Measuring Machines into Feature Measurement: Part I—Model Development

The development of an error compensation model for coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and its integration into feature measurement is presented. CMMs are widespread and dependable instruments in industry and laboratories for dimensional measurement. From the tip probe sensor to the machine display, there is a complex transformation of probed point coordinates through the geometrical feature model that makes the assessment of accuracy and uncertainty measurement results difficult. Therefore, error compensation is not standardized, conversely to other simpler instruments. Detailed coordinate error compensation models are generally based on CMM as a rigid-body and it requires a detailed mapping of the CMM’s behavior. In this paper a new model type of error compensation is proposed. It evaluates the error from the vectorial composition of length error by axis and its integration into the geometrical measurement model. The non-explained variability by the model is incorporated into the uncertainty budget. Model parameters are analyzed and linked to the geometrical errors and uncertainty of CMM response. Next, the outstanding measurement models of flatness, angle, and roundness are developed. The proposed models are useful for measurement improvement with easy integration into CMM signal processing, in particular in industrial environments where built-in solutions are sought. A battery of implementation tests are presented in Part II, where the experimental endorsement of the model is included.

Integration of Error Compensation of Coordinate Measuring Machines into Feature Measurement: Part II—Experimental Implementation

Coordinate measuring machines (CMM) are main instruments of measurement in laboratories and in industrial quality control. A compensation error model has been formulated (Part I). It integrates error and uncertainty in the feature measurement model. Experimental implementation for the verification of this model is carried out based on the direct testing on a moving bridge CMM. The regression results by axis are quantified and compared to CMM indication with respect to the assigned values of the measurand. Next, testing of selected measurements of length, flatness, dihedral angle, and roundness features are accomplished. The measurement of calibrated gauge blocks for length or angle, flatness verification of the CMM granite table and roundness of a precision glass hemisphere are presented under a setup of repeatability conditions. The results are analysed and compared with alternative methods of estimation. The overall performance of the model is endorsed through experimental verification, as well as the practical use and the model capability to contribute in the improvement of current standard CMM measuring capabilities.

Measurements of the Friction Coefficient: Discussion on the Results in the Framework of the Time Series Analysis

Tribology studies the interaction between surfaces in relative motion with a particular focus on the principles of friction, wear and lubrication. The measurement of the friction coefficient (COF) is extremely sensitive to experimental friction force fluctuations thus making COF direct measurement not a trivial task. In this manuscript, a novel approach toward the understanding of the friction coefficient behavior during reciprocating tests is proposed. The proposed procedure represents a first approach for a deep investigation about measured COF distribution during tribological tests. It is based on the analysis of COF data measured during the tests in the framework of time series analysis and it was applied to several real tests in dry-friction showed as example of application. Output parameters (i.e., friction, traction force) were investigated to detect trends, connected to running-in period of the tribo-couple, seasonal, connected to the periodicity induced from reciprocating motion, and residual components. After “smoothing” the COF data set by removing the trend and seasonal components, the residual component was analyzed to check the stationary of the COF data set which represents the most characteristic interval in friction measurements.

Dimensional Characterization of Prosthesis Bearings for Tribological Modelling

Prosthesis bearings are precision mechanical systems from which performance improvement represents a direct contribution to patient’s wellbeing. Spherical shape of hip prosthesis bearing approaches natural ones, but their performance become degraded in service, and the lubrication and wear mechanisms are outstanding fields of research. Because tribological phenomena are complex, attempts of modelling the bearing requires precise consideration of the boundary conditions that the real prosthesis have. Detailed experimental characterization of two ceramic hip prostheses is accomplished. Shape and roughness are measured by accurate point coordinate metrology with proper methodology through contact probing by a coordinate measuring machine, and optical measuring through confocal microscopy. The results quantify the deviation from the ideal shape and significant roughness parameters of bearing surfaces. Their influence is discussed in the spotlight of their relationship with the tribological behavior of the prosthesis. Future works direction are envisioned so geometrical boundary conditions can play an important role in prosthesis performance understanding and improvement.