Microstar Model 320-185 for the 5-Axis PH20 Probe

Helmel Engineering has introduced a CMM developed to take advantage of the capabilities of Renishaw’s PH20 probe concept. The Microstar Model 320-185 is an evolution of the company’s Microstar line of mechanical bearing CMMs.

Virtually all moving bridge CMMs were developed for slower probe systems that index between limited numbers of locked A-B position angles, then measure with three-axis moves. In contrast, the Renishaw PH20 probe system with UCCT5 controller provides true five-axis functionality with infinite positions throughout the 230-degree × 360-degree head range in combination with the X, Y and Z axis motion of the CMM. The PH20 also includes “head-tap” mode where the probe rapidly acquires data autonomously while the CMM remains stationary.

The Z axis has a larger section for stiffness and stronger bearing separation, and the X-axis carriage employs a dual bearing flexure stabilizer concept combined with self-aligning mounts for linear bearings. Scales are upgraded to Vionic long-life stainless steel tapes mounted on steel surfaces with 50-nanometer resolution reading heads. Error correction is implemented at the controller and temperature compensation is offered. 

The drive system has been improved as well. The steel and Kevlar reinforced drive belts are larger and the tachmotors are stronger on all three axes, allowing more aggressive motion parameters. The result is a CMM system with throughput double to triple measuring speeds of traditional CMMs with indexing probes, the company says. Added protection for harsh environments is also available.

Initially offered with a measuring range of 20” × 30” × 18”, the system includes CMM Manager CAD software as standard. Renishaw’s Modus software is an option. The system also includes a TCR20 six-port automatic stylus changer.