Freeform surface measurement and characterisation using a toolmakers microscope

摘要

Current freeform surface (FFS) characterization systems mainly cover aspects related to computer-aided design/manufacture (CAD/CAM). This paper describes a new approach that extends into computer-aided inspection (CAI).The following novel features are addressed: ? Feature recognition and extraction from surface data ? Characterisation of properties of the surface's M and N vectors at individual vertex ? Development of a measuring plan using a toolmakers microscope for the inspection of the FFS ? Inspection of the actual FFS produced by CNC milling ? Verification of the measurement results and comparison with the CAD design data Tests have shown that the deviations between the CAI and CAD data were within the estimated uncertainty limits.