Patent ID: 7520187
Filing Date: 2009-04-21
Classification: G01B

Abstract:
1. In a measurement machine having at least one sensor, a breakaway apparatus for holding an object to be measured and having a component adapted to be reliably returned to a known position after breaking away, the breakaway apparatus comprising: a stage configured to translate the object relative to the sensor; a fixturing plate releasably attached to the stage and configured to hold the object to be measured; a plurality of releasable mounts arranged between the fixturing plate and the stage to support the fixturing plate on the stage and to constrain motion of the fixturing plate relative to the stage in a plane substantially parallel to the fixturing plate and the stage, yet allowing breakaway motion of the fixturing plate in a direction substantially perpendicular to the stage; and a crash detection arrangement comprising at least one proximity sensor mounted on one of the plate and the stage, the at least one proximity sensor being connected to a proximity controller that stops operation of the measuring device when the distance between the sensor and the stage exceeds a predetermined distance.