Step 3: Measure Features for Datum A

The top plane (Datum A) is used for the primary alignment datum. A reference plane is commonly not required in 2D vision measurements. However, in this example, the datum plane is measured to accommodate dimensioning flatness. This is useful in situations where you might have feature control frames that reference a datum plane.

Since the approximate location of the part is known, PC-DMIS can operate in DCC mode.

If you are using a DCC machine, from the Probe Mode toolbar, select DCC Mode (). Otherwise, you can use AutoShutter to measure using a manual machine.

To measure a plane features for Datum A:

1. Select the Magnification tab and adjust the magnification so it is increased to the maximum setting (zoomed in).

2. Select the Live View tab.

3. Position the camera over the part.

4. From the Illumination tab , adjust the Top Light to a value that makes the surface visible but not too bright. Move Z to focus as necessary.

5. Select the CAD tab.

6. From the Graphic Modes toolbar (View | Toolbars | Graphic Modes), select Scale-To-Fit ().

7. From the Graphics Modes toolbar, select the Surface Mode button ().

8. From the Auto Feature toolbar (View | Toolbars | Auto Features), click Surface Point () to open the Auto Feature dialog box for Surface Point.

9. Click a point on the top surface.

10. Select the Hit Targets tab , and change the following parameters: Target Type = Automatic Hit Target, Range = 5.0, Duration = 5, and Find Surface Option = YES.

11. For each Automatic Hit Target, double-click the option below each property, and type the specified value.

12. Click Create to add this edge point to the measurement routine.

13. Click another point on the top surface, then click Create.

14. Repeat the step above (click a point, then Create) until a total of 8 points have been created (PNT2 - PNT9).

15. Click Close to exit the Auto Feature dialog box.

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