Three perpendicular axes (X, Y, Z) with precision glass scales (0.1-1μm resolution). A touch probe contacts the workpiece surface, recording coordinate data at each point. Software processes points into geometric elements, then calculates dimensions.
Probe types: touch trigger (contact=record, most common) and scanning (continuous contact).
CMM accuracy: 0.5-3μm (production), 0.2-0.5μm (metrology).
Typical inspection time: 15-60 minutes for a medium complexity part (including programming).
Hexagon (Leitz/DEA): global leader, ¥1-5 million. Zeiss: German brand, industry benchmark, ¥2-8 million. Wenzel: German bridge and gantry types. Renishaw: UK-based probe system leader. Serein (Hexagon domestic): ¥300,000-800,000.
Domestic brands have improved dramatically — ¥300,000 CMMs now meet most general manufacturing needs. Most CMM rooms are climate controlled at 20±1°C.