COORDINATE MEASURING MACHINES

Coordinate Measuring Machines Overview

MICROCORD

Catalog No. E16023(2)History

The origins of the modern form of Coordinate Measuring
Machine (CMM) lie in early 1960s Europe when electronic
recording techniques were first applied to the two- and threedimensional (3D) measuring machines that were needed forinspecting the output of the first generation of NumericallyControlled (NC) machine tools. Even though companies suchas Moore in the U.S. and SIP in Switzerland had made Universal
Measuring Machines (UMM) for many years these were slow in
operation, mainly due to the necessity of manually recording
positional readings for each axis, and when the new breed of
NC machine tools appeared it was soon found that the UMM,
although highly accurate and versatile, could not keep pacewith the increased rate of production available, even wheninspection was restricted to first-offs and low-rate sampling.
Mitutoyo also developed a Coordinate Measuring Machine,
in 1968, called the MICROCORD A1 Series. This made use ofvernier scales as the length measuring mechanism on each axis
in a similar way to that used for analog calipers. The operator
focused on a target point on a workpiece with a microscope
fixed to the Z axis ram (the vertical direction moving element)
and manually made a note of that point while reading each2vernier scale to determine its 3D coordinates, from which theworkpiece dimensions were then calculated. Although such ameasuring procedure appears somewhat daunting from today's
perspective, this machine attracted the attention of potential
customers at the time. However, since the machineʼs cost was
equivalent to that of a family house with land at the time, it
was not brought into production.
In time, Mitutoyo developed a scale that produced an electricalsignal proportional to displacement, a sensor that automaticallytriggered this scale unit to send out a signal when a stylus cameinto contact with a workpiece as well as various processing
units that eliminated the need for manual calculation, andthen applied these technological advances to the wide rangeof Mitutoyo coordinate measuring machines that have become
popular throughout the world.
At first, Mitutoyo was supplied with scales and processing units
by other companies, but during the 1980s Mitutoyo developed
all the necessary technologies in-house for manufacturingcontrol units, scales, software programs and probes, etc., andthus became the only domestic manufacturer supplying CMMs
for the support of global manufacturing.

The most common application of a CMM is in final inspection of
product components for quality assurance purposes. However,Mitutoyo CMMs are not only used for GO/NG judgmentof finished products but also play their part in all aspectsof manufacturing where fast and accurate measurement
is needed, such as importing digitalized data of a mock-up
created by a designer in a 3D CAD system. At first, a CMM hada high hurdle to clear when being considered for investment
because it was perceived as a "non-productive facility".
However, because of its ever-expanding field of application, theCMM reached the point where potential users started to planits introduction even ahead of machining equipment.
The reason why a CMM is increasingly used in diverse
measurement situations is due to its continuously increasing
capability. In the case of Mitutoyo this has been achieved bysystematically embodying the requirements of users into its

CMM line-up one by one. Additionally, in order to achieve"Industry 4.0" (the smart factory) for optimizing productivity
and cost efficiency by visualizing the production site andproduct distribution by linking all measuring devices and tools,
it is extremely important to control and maintain productquality. As a primary means of ensuring this, the CMM willcontinue to receive concentrated attention into the foreseeable
future regarding user demand for further advancement.
Therefore Mitutoyo will continue to work hard in supportingworld manufacturing with leading-edge technologies.

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Automatic Measurement Program Generation Software

MiCAT-Planner
MSURF-Planner− Bringing Part Program Creation Time Close to Zero −Most Computer Numerical Control (CNC) CMMs are used tocreate an automatic measurement program (a part program)by means of so-called "Teaching" that copies the sequence ofmachine moves made while an operator actually measures apart and stores them as a part program to be used whenever
the exact same kind of workpiece is measured. This proceduretakes a considerable time and cannot be performed until atleast one example of the part to be measured has been made.
When a wide variety of products in small lots are produced,
commensurately more part programs need to be generated.
The effort of generating these programs, particular in the caseof major manufacturers, means that this task is often handled

by outsourcing to specialists. CMMs and their part programsmight well be called the keystone of quality manufacturing.
Outsourcing of such a critical activity as part-program generation
carries risks: for example, intimate product knowledge may belost when a third party is involved. The manufacturer may find
it difficult to understand the programmers methodology should
problems arise in future that require program modification or
analysis. This may cause problems with quality management,
as a manufacturer may not be able to self-analyze potential
issues inherent in the results and hence determine the cause of
defectives.

MiCAT-Planner

4Software that allows part-program creation by simulation using
3D CAD models, before a part has been manufactured, hasrecently become available from CMM manufacturers. However,such systems have not yet become widely accepted because
they specify data points one-by-one and thus cannot achievemuch of a reduction in the man-hours required even whencompared with the teaching method.
Mitutoyo has now achieved a significant advance with thelaunch of MiCAT-Planner. This software package automaticallycreates a part program from 3D CAD models that include

tolerancing information. This software provides major benefits
such as (1) 95% reduction in part-program creation time;(2) enables anyone to create a part program; (3) reduces
measurement time by optimizing data points; and (4) noneed to learn operating procedures from scratch. This allows
the design department of a company to specify machining
information and inspection information in parallel, looking
forward to the time when a CMM will support global
manufacturing quality.

MSURF-Planner5Ultra-high Accuracy CNC Coordinate Measuring Machine

LEGEX Series− A CMM Trusted by Research Institutes throughout the World −"Achieved an Uncertainty of less than 1µm"
Almost alone among the many CMM manufacturers, Mitutoyo
has achieved an uncertainty in measurement (not a variation)of less than 1 µm with a CMM when measuring a length of
500mm. CMMs with this performance are the top-end models
from three world-leading CMM vendors and include Mitutoyo's
LEGEX series*1. A CMM system contains a large number ofpotential error sources such as imperfect axial motion, linear
scale error, algorithm error, internal vibration, hysteresis, thermal
inﬂuences and probing error. To achieve the 1µm measurement
uncertainty performance mentioned above, the individual
sources of error must be made vanishingly small because, in
general, they are additive.
To realize this goal Mitutoyo has consistently worked toward
development of fundamental technologies, which resulted inachieving a world-leading measurement uncertainty of 0.28µm in the first uncertainty term*2 for the LEGEX. For example,
stability of the main unit was maximized by adopting a fixedbridge moving-table structure, uncommon in CMMs, to avoid
the vibration inherent in moving-bridge designs, small though6

it may be. The outstanding performance of the LEGEX series
depended on developing a variety of new technologies, suchas a proprietary type of glass scale with practically zero thermal
expansion and a resolution of 0.01µm as the measuring systemon each axis.
However, high performance of the CMM itself is not enoughwithout a probing system of equal performance. Mitutoyo had
to develop an ultra-high-accuracy scanning probe, the MPP-300,
instead of using a commercially available touch-trigger probe
for which the repeatability performance alone is often around
1µm. Also, the LEGEX series does not use the granite basethat is commonly fitted to standard CMMs. Although granite
is perfectly suitable for surface plates this well-known natural
material is slightly porous and therefore subject to minutesecular change because of the effect that humidity variation has
on its dimensional stability, which renders it unsuitable for use
in CMMs of the highest grade. This is the reason why Mitutoyo
decided to use a cast-iron base for the LEGEX, even though thecost was higher.

This is just one example of the attention to detail that hasgone into developing the LEGEX system but there are otheraspects equally as important. For example, it is not enough justto pursue the ultimate in accuracy and stability of mechanicalstructures and parts, for however much the performanceof a CMM is improved the effects of thermal expansion are
unavoidable. It is a fact that a 100mm-long steel rod willchange in length by about 1µm if the temperature changes by
only 1℃. Therefore the LEGEX incorporates a highly effective
thermal compensation system that enables its outstanding
accuracy to be maintained over the range 19-21℃.
Even after implementing the abovementioned features there
were still many factors that could affect measurement accuracy,such as external vibration. In order to maintain measurement
uncertainty within 1 µm, it was necessary to tackle a wide
variety of potential error sources and remove or minimize them
one by one.

LEGEX 574

LEGEX 776

LEGEX has an active role wherever extremely high measuring
accuracy is required, such as in the support of ultra-precision
machining of parts such as gears, ball screws, bearings, andsimilar in the moldmaking, space and aeronautics industries,
and has truly pushed Mitutoyo quality to new heights.
The name “LEGEX” is derived from LEGEND and EXCELLENT,
which suits a CMM that has earned an excellent reputation asa reference measuring machine in many research institutes andmajor development divisions of companies across the world.

*1：Result of in-company survey in September 2016
*2：The accuracy of a CMM is commonly expressed in the form of a measurement
uncertainty figure given by A + BL (A, B: arbitrary values determined bycalibration, L: measured length) where A is called the "first term". The
smaller the value of A + BL, the higher the measurement accuracy.

LEGEX 9106

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High Accuracy CNC Coordinate Measuring Machine

STRATO-Apex Series− Supporting Ultraprecision Machining Technology −"What is the guaranteed accuracy of this CMM ?" This is a
Frequently Asked Question posed by potential customers but
is a little difficult to answer without more information. When
this question is addressed to a CMM manufacturer, the CMM
accuracy (nominal value in the catalog) is usually sent back in
response. However, the customer should be aware that "CMM
accuracy in the catalog" is not equivalent to "guaranteed
accuracy of the product (part)".
The answer that the customer actually wants depends onwhether the question was asked with an eye to the guaranteed
quality of the customer's product or merely about theperformance of the CMM itself.
Well, suppose the customer asked this question with a view towhether product accuracy can be guaranteed: `How accurate

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does my CMM need to be ?'It used to be said that a measurement should ideally be madewith an instrument 10 times more accurate than the tolerance.
Thus, in the case of a tolerance of ±0.005mm on a 100mm
dimension a CMM should have a measuring uncertainty of
0.0005mm (±0.5µm) at this length to be in accord with thisstatement, and this cannot be met with a standard CMM.
However, the requirements of the marketplace for productquality are becoming more severe from day to day and thus therequired accuracy of precision parts is becoming increasingly
higher so that we now commonly see much tighter tolerance
specifications and the traditional ten-to-one ratio then becomes
unrealistic when using a standard CMM.

In view of this situation, if a customer insists on a CMM withultra-high accuracy to the degree of one-tenth the accuracy of a
product then a big investment for a top-class CMM is required,
and this may be difficult to recover. In general, it is advisable tostrike a balance between cost and performance of equipment.
According to our experience, the accuracy of a CMM issufficient if its uncertainty of measurement is no more than 1/5
or so of a dimensional tolerance. This has been proved to bea realistic value obtained from various inspections. Therefore,
in the case of a ±0.005mm tolerance, product quality canbe guaranteed if the CMM used has a specified catalog
uncertainty of 1µm or so. Still, a CMM with such high accuracy

STRATO-Apex574

was extremely costly until now but Mitutoyo has developed
the STRATO-Apex Series that supports such high-accuracy
manufacturing in terms both of accuracy and cost factors.
While laying emphasis on cost-reduction, this series has also
adopted the same zero-expansion glass scale (as used on the
LEGEX) as a key technology and is equipped as standard withthe auto-leveling/vibration-damping unit, thereby incorporating
features that enable exceptional accuracy to be achieved in a
top-end moving-bridge CMM.
The name “STRATO” is derived from STRATOSPHERE, signifyingthat this is a CMM with an ultra-high level of accuracy at a costcomparable with that of a standard-class machine.

STRATO-Apex9106
STRATO-Apex 163012

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CNC Coordinate Measuring Machine

CRYSTA-Apex S/EX Series− Best-selling Machine Supporting Manufacturing in a Wide Range of Industries −A new concept by which a variety of measurement is performed
using a measurement sensor in place of a tool mounted on
the machine tool's head has become popular. "On-machine
Measurement" indicates the measurement of a workpiece
while it is still clamped on the machine tool, which has obvious
advantages if that measurement is reliable. However, it should
be remembered that this concept has a problem in that it isextremely risky to believe an evaluation result obtained fromsuch measurement without understanding its limitations.
Implementation of machining and measurement with the samemachine is primarily something like auditing one's work oneself.
Unless an audit is performed by a third party, any criticalproblem could be overlooked.

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The basic problem with measuring a part using the samemachine tool that produced the part is that any error inpositioning accuracy or dynamic accuracy will largely berepeated in both operations and so any error will, in general,go undetected. Furthermore, if the accuracy of the machine
tool is always changing then such change will go unrecognized.
Also, deformation caused by clamping a part can only bedetected when it is released, and so this form error too will goundetected. In order to evaluate a part reliably it is essential toevaluate it using other measuring equipment. Quality control ofcomponents incorporated in products on which people's lives
depend often mandate that measurement is made by different
operators on different CMMs.

In the late 20th century, a CMM was so expensive that its price
was several times more than a machine tool. Nowadays, a CNC
CMM with a measuring range of 500mm costs several million
yen, allowing acquisition at about one-third the price at its first
appearance. Since CNC CMMs can guarantee an accuracy ofseveral micrometers or so in a temperature environment of 16
to 26℃ without using a temperature controlled chamber, they
have become widespread and several tens of thousands are
now operating in Japan.
What are the requirements from CMM manufacturers?
Reliability, convenience, high accuracy, efficiency, low price,
multi-functionality, user-friendliness, etc. The priority assigned
to these attributes differs depending on the customer. A
customer sometimes may ask for multiple requirements thatare in conﬂict with each other. The requirements of high speed
and high accuracy, or multi-functionality and user-friendlinesscorrespond to such cases. The CRYSTA-Apex/EX is a CNC CMM
that was developed by a full-scale development effort to try andmeet the above requirements, wherever possible, with only asingle machine. This series is Mitutoyo's mainstay product thathas sought a best-in-class accuracy guarantee and throughput
improvement thanks to a high-speed/high-acceleration drive
system working in the wide temperature environment of 16 to
26℃ .
The name “ CRYSTA ” is derived from CRYSTAL. This word
represents the desired shining reputation of products
manufactured by our customers.

CRYSTA-Apex EX 544T
CRYSTA-Apex S 9106
CRYSTA-Apex S 122010

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In-line Type CNC Coordinate Measuring Machine

MACH-V/3A/Ko-ga-me Series− Achieving Numeric Management in the Production Line −In the production area of a manufacturing operation there aremany types of length measuring tools and instruments such asline standards, calipers, micrometers and height gages together
with end standards such as gauge blocks, plug gages and snap
gages. These tools, although very handy, can only perform
single dimensional evaluation at a time and thus may not beable to effectively measure a complex workpiece with many
important dimensions to be checked. For example, they cannot
evaluate positional deviation and runout.
This being the case, such tasks may be handled bymanufacturing a dedicated gage that combines a measuring toolwith a fixture. Although it is impossible to measure the circularrunout of a round part using only a dial indicator, it is possible
to evaluate runout by manufacturing a fixture that allows thedial indicator's contact point to come into contact with thecircumference of the part and rotating it around its axis.
However, a dedicated gage to measure more complicated andadvanced products such as car engine parts will be so complex
that it may cost several million yen. And a dedicated gage like12

this must basically be remanufactured if product dimensions
or form are changed. Today, where every product life cycle isbecoming shorter, the cost required for dedicated gages is everincreasing. Additionally, measurement using a gage is called"comparative measurement" and always needs a standard suchas gauge blocks or a master workpiece (reference workpiece forzero-setting the position of each sensor in the gage).
Because of the higher degree of commonality achieved between
parts for the purpose of cost-cutting, multiple companies haveglobally produced the same part, thereby needing a large
number of master workpieces required for dedicated gages.
As a result, if there is a difference (variation) between thosemaster workpieces it will cause an issue resulting in a differencein quality between company B in country A and company D incountry C. Moreover, there is another issue in that measurementwith a gage makes it difficult to feed back corrective action tomachine tools since this type of measurement is mainly intended
for OK/NG judgment and is not suited for grasping how much amachining point is deviating and in which direction.

Since the debut of the CMM in the market, it has been mostly
used for measurement of complicated components such as
car engine parts. Until the latter half of the 1990s, the CMM
could only deliver its maximum performance in an inspection
room controlled at 20℃ and, particularly, the manual CMM
was very slow. For these reasons the CMM played a rolecompletely different from that of measuring tools and gages ina production area. For example, it was used for evaluation of atrial product or sampling measurement of several pieces per day
from among mass-produced goods. That is why a CMM was
seldom used for in-line or line-side measurement.
In order to globally implement high-level quality managementof products, however, the "comparative measurement"
methodology using dedicated gages had limits on its
measurement capability. On the other hand, a general-purpose
machine like a CMM allowed "absolute measurement" while
supporting multi-product measurement capability. It was clear
from the results that installation of a CMM in a production line

MACH-3A 653

or on the line-side made it easier to meet various measurement
challenges and also led to cost-cutting of production in themedium-to-long term. Certainly, there were still many problems
remaining to install the conventional bridge-type CMM forlong continuous operation in a production line and thus a
new-concept CMM to resolve these problems needed to be
developed.
Therefore Mitutoyo developed and launched the MACH series
as a complete in-line compatible CNC CMM. With a superfast
drive on all axes and 5-40℃ wide-range thermal compensation
function (MACH-3A), this series provides absolute measurement
combined with easy integration and highly efficient operation ina production line. A further development, the MACH Ko-ga-me
series, is a lightweight CNC CMM with a small measuring range
but very fast action that is the first of its type in the world. This
series not only allows stand-alone installation but also provides
a revolutionary solution that enables installation on machine
tools and associated equipment.

MACH-V9106

MACH Ko-ga-me

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Large Separate Guide Type CNC Coordinate Measuring Machine

FALCIO-Apex G Series
Crysta-Apex CG Series− A Reference Machine for Measuring Large Parts −CMMs are increasingly employed for high-accuracy dimensional
evaluation of extremely large components such as aircraft
parts, machine tool parts, construction machine parts andcar-body molds. However, if a large CMM with a measuring
range of 2m or more in bridge width were manufactured
with a conventional granite base it would be too big to betransportable on public highways. Therefore, Mitutoyo has
adopted the "gantry" structure for CMMs of this class. In thisstructure, two huge parallel guide rails are installed on the ﬂoor

and a bridge structure carrying the probing system runs onthem like an electric train on rails. This allows each guide rail tobe separately transported and built up on site.
Nevertheless, this structure has one major drawback becauseof the lack of a highly rigid base. There are several CMM
manufacturers in the world which employ this structure where
the guide rails are fixed to the ﬂoor with several anchor bolts,
thus causing the rails to deform according to the contour of theﬂoor.

FALCIO-Apex 305015G

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But however robustly the fundamental construction is executed,
variations in the ﬂoor contour due to unavoidable secular andseasonal change in temperature is unavoidable. This obviously
has an adverse effect on the CMM's accuracy. To solve thisproblem, Mitutoyo employs a particular type of structure where
the guide rails are supported at two optimal points so as not
to be subject to changes in ﬂoor contour, and the support andguide rail are not completely fixed which allows for guide rail

expansion and shrinkage due to temperature changes.
Mitutoyo has also developed a unique floor deformationcompensation system (MOVAC: Mitutoyo Onsite Volumetric
Accuracy Compensation system) to compensate for secularand seasonal change in floor contour. The Crysta-Apex isequipped with this epoch-making system that allows customers
themselves to prevent adverse effects on CMM accuracy due tochanges in ﬂoor contour over time.

Crysta-Apex C306020G

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Horizontal Type CNC Coordinate Measuring Machine

CARB-Strato/Apex− Putting a Beautiful Design into Tangible Form −Car design − flowing form, distinctive character line, flawfree beautiful coating, etc. These highly desirable attributes
begin with design. A sketch of the designer's concept is first
converted to 3D CAD data, from which quarter- and full-scale
clay models are fabricated, and then design for prototype tomass production is launched. Since the start of this century it
has become apparent, particularly in the auto industry, thatthe full use of computer simulation technology allows virtualengineering of the entire process from product design tomanufacture and inspection without fabrication of physicalmodels.
There actually exists a carmaker that has developed a new carwithout fabrication of clay models by using 3D CAD. On the16other hand, however, there is also at least one carmaker thatfabricates clay models in order to put "life" into a car design
and for finalizing details. This may be explained by a differencein the way of thinking and working of individual carmakers.
Nevertheless, as the 3D printer grows more sophisticated, trial
manufacture of parts using a 3D printer is getting started for
car interior verification.
In this development process, a CMM is not only used forevaluation of machined parts. A CMM makes the most of its
capabilities in various situations such as conversion of a clay
model to 3D data and evaluation of moldmaking for car panelsin the development, design and manufacturing phases as wellas the quality assurance function.

The CARB series is a horizontal-arm CNC CMM which allows
the whole car body to be measured on both sides if two
machines are mounted horizontally opposed (Dual-arm type).
This series delivers both the world's highest moving speed andmeasuring accuracy in this class and can maintain this accuracy
over an extended time period by virtue of its unique 3-point
support for the base which is insensitive to changes in thefoundation (for the Strato: types up to 6m in the X axis).
Taking harsh operating environments into consideration, adust-proof cover is fitted to all axes (for the Strato this allows aperson to walk on the cover on the X-axis base) in addition toa temperature compensation function as standard equipment.
This series has further received full attention to safety design for

CARBstrato 601624D (Dual type)the dedicated control box with a 3-position dead-man switch,
sensors built into the Y-axis bellows to trigger an emergency
stop before the Y-axis ram comes into abnormal contact
with any object such as a workpiece, area sensors (optional)
to trigger an emergency stop when an operator enters themachine operational area during automatic measurement, andothers.
The name “CARB” is derived from CAR BODY. This series plays
an active role in a variety of fields such as manufacturing
construction-machine parts, building materials, electricity
generator parts and liquid crystal panel parts as well as
automobile parts.

CARBapex 601624 (Single type)17

In-line Inspection System

MAPVISION Quality Gate Series− Achieving 100% Workpieces × 100% Items Inspection −Since about the year 2000, camera-equipped CMMs havebecome widespread. Some of them obtain the position of aworkpiece surface with a projected target, and others obtain 3D
data from a workpiece by the light-section method where a slitlike laser beam is shone on the workpiece surface and a CCD
camera receives the reﬂected light, from which the position ofeach point on the surface is acquired by triangulation. Since
the first camera systems were strongly sensitive to the surface
color and condition of a workpiece, it was necessary to coat thesurface with powder or degloss the surface luster with a solvent
if the surface was strongly colored or too glossy.
Recently, a CMM with a cabinet resembling a large projector
has rapidly become commonplace, particularly for car bodyinspection. This is a measuring machine mainly based on theprinciple of the phase shift method by which the machine18

determines a distance from an object by using the phasedifference between reflected light from the workpiece andreference light obtained from the same light source while
irradiating the workpiece with laser beams modulated in
multiple grid patterns. This “light-section” method only allows
data acquisition of one section and thus needs to swing thelaser beam to acquire plane data. The use of this method
enables tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands ofplane data points per second to be acquired as coordinate
information. The camera-equipped measuring machine
performs measurement while being moved around a workpiecewith the machine installed on a stand (or tripod) or whilerotating a workpiece so as to cover all visible areas. (In eachcase, all measurement data are combined by various methods.)

The disadvantage of these measuring machines is that settingof a workpiece must be redone when measuring multiple data
points although measurement of one point is as quick as several
seconds. As an example, it finally takes tens of minutes tomeasure a large workpiece such as a door panel (including holepositions and surface heights). Even if a robot is used, as data
points increase in number, it requires more time to move therobot to each additional point.
In contrast, Mapvision's Quality Gate system offered by
Mitutoyo is a mold-breaking system which can measure data
points on a workpiece at one stroke with several tens to ahundred small cameras and illumination units arranged in themeasuring machine cabinet. The system allows ultra-highspeed measurement in a matter of seconds because there are
no moving elements. Preinstalling a number of small cameras
and auxiliary illuminators at necessary locations enables all data

points to be measured.
The Quality Gate checks whether the correct parts are mounted
in their proper locations as well as measuring hole positions
and surface heights, thus enabling evaluation of assemblies
such as welded car body parts and even complete chassis.
Quality Gate is "100% workpieces/items measurement". The
system not only eliminates an influx of defectives into postprocess, but also feeds back, at the world's highest speed, dataneeded for quick convergence and optimization of variations
in parts upon start-up of production. It can also revaluate theparts on the data based on information about defectives at thedesign/development phase which are turned out later due toprolonged storage and identify individual product in which any
defective has been installed, thereby contributing to costcutting
by enabling pinpoint response to a defective.

Quality Gate 4200

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Manual Type Coordinate Measuring Machine

CRYSTA-Plus M Series− The CMM that is Just Like Using a Regular Gage −Conventional CMMs are categorized into two kinds: the manual
type that is operated while holding and moving the Z-axis ram
by hand around a workpiece, and the CNC type that enables
automatic measurement under numerical control. The first
CMM that appeared on the market was a manual type. Even
after the CNC CMM was launched in the 1980s, the mainstayof the industry was still the manual CMM until the first half ofthe 1990s. As CNC CMMs became cheaper in the latter half of20

the 1990s this type became dominant.
However, the manual CMM still plays an active role even now
because of advantages such as: (1) capability of measurement
without needing to create a part program as does a CNC CMM;
(2) simple measurement of only the required points just likeusing a regular gage; (3) only one-half the cost of a CMC CMM(3 million yen or so); (4) low maintenance cost.

The CRYSTA-Plus M series manual CMM has achieved
unparalleled accuracy assurance in the temperature range of
15 to 30℃, thereby allowing production inspection with thesimplicity of a gage. This series is equipped with many featuresin pursuit of operability, such as handy illumination for helping
to measure intricate workpiece detail (544/574), fine-feed knobs

Crysta-Plus M443

arranged at one convenient location when using a microscope(443/544), and a constant force grip for reducing measurement
variation among individual operators (776).

Crysta-Plus M574
Crysta-Plus M7106

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Multi-axis Portable Coordinate Measuring System

SpinArm-Apex Series− A Portable, Compact Machine −In the 1980s, a CMM based on a completely different concept
made its appearance. This CMM, developed for a prosthetic
limb maker, was a multijoint articulated arm type without the
Cartesian coordinate scales of the conventional bridge-type
structure. The conventional bridge type CMM is structured so
as to define any given spatial point as its X, Y and Z coordinates
relative to an arbitrary reference point using scale units in eachof the orthogonal axes. In contrast, a multijoint articulated arm
type CMM is structured so as to define a given point in terms ofspherical coordinates (radius r and two angles θ, ø).

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The biggest feature of this CMM is "portability". A conventional
CMM cannot measure a workpiece unless the workpiece,
however large or heavy, is loaded onto the machine (or set
within the measuring range). On the other hand, a fully
articulated arm type CMM is lightweight and portable, thus
allowing it to be moved close to a workpiece even if it needs ameasuring range of 3m or more. The arm type CMM also allows
a part being worked to be measured without removal from amachine tool, or process, while it is being worked on. This is ahuge advantage from the viewpoint of measurement efficiency.

The principal driver for development of this type of CMM forthe prosthetic limb maker was the need for portability above
all other considerations. Although a bridge type CMM cannot
measure a workpiece which is larger than its measuring
range, an articulated arm type CMM can do this by using
the technique of linking measurement results gathered frommultiple positions around the workpiece.
At first, Mitutoyo imported and sold foreign-made articulated
arm type CMMs. (Software was proprietary to Mitutoyo.) In
2013, Mitutoyo released the in-house developed SpinArm-

SpinArm-Apex 186H

Apex CMM series. Around the same time, Mitutoyo successfully
developed and manufactured line laser sensors, which had
depended on third-party products until then, and non-contact
systems equipped with those sensors are now put to use bycustomers for a wide variety of purposes, such as inspection ofmolded goods and reverse-engineering procedures.

SpinArm-Apex 367H

*Not for use and/or export to the United Sates of America.

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SOFTWARE− The Enabler of Multiple Measurement Technologies −The principal reason that the performance of CMMs has
dramatically improved in recent years is that, quite simply,
the software technology has advanced. For example, in
evaluation of holes and bores the old software only calculated
circle features (hole diameter and center coordinates) from 3
measurement points. The latest software has no limit to thenumber of measuring points and provides multiple functions
which allow you to select a calculation formula from mean
circle, circumscribed circle or inscribed circle, and the measuringmethod as point-to-point or scanning in order to evaluate
roundness, positional deviation, tolerance verification, and fit inaddition to diameter and center coordinates.
Although there exist several tens of CMM manufacturers in theworld, not so many of them develop the associated software.

Software development seems endless and requires an enormous
amount of time and energy and in fact most manufacturers
are supplied with software from other companies. Mitutoyo
started in-house development of software in the 1970s. In
the 1980s Mitutoyo also developed the hardware for dataprocessing units, which have become increasingly widespread
due to the popularity of manual CMMs. In the 1990s, while
the emphasis was changing to CNC CMMs, Mitutoyo installed
in-house developed software on commercial PCs which were
becoming increasingly cheaper. Since software for evaluation of
curved surfaces and gears, as well as conventional dimensional
evaluation, was developed and installed on a PC the field of
application of the CNC CMM has greatly expanded.

CAT1000P [ON-Off-line teaching program]

CAT1000S[Curved surface evaluation program]

24

The recent advancement of cooperation with 3D CAD has
allowed a CMM not only to perform comparative tolerance
verification between measurement data and design datawith numeric values or visually, but also to assist correction
by feeding measurement data back to manufacturing.
Furthermore, with the capability to automatically program theCMM using CAD data, etc., the CMM has enabled a solution
for a drastic reduction of effort on jobs that conventionallyrequired much time and manpower through a trial and error
process.
The future world will see a drive toward cooperation of labor
between facilities and humans with the aim of achieving a

GEARPAK [gear evaluation program]

ROUNDPAK

smart factory by connecting all devices together throughthe Internet (IoT: Internet of things), visualizing a variety of
information on such as development, production, qualityand distribution and clarifying the cause-and-effect relations
between pieces of information. At this time, software will play
an increasingly important role. Mitutoyo intends to offer various
solutions always with a focus on "quality" in this new era ofmanufacturing technology. While contributing our energy
to software development more than ever for that purpose,
Mitutoyo promises to deliver epoch-making solutions using thesynergies of our comprehensive technologies of mechanics,
electrics, electronics, optics, materials, control and computing.

[roundness/cylindricity evaluation program]

MeasurLink[measurement data network system]

CAD/CAM

DesignOﬀ-line programming

Digitizing

CMM model

Trial

Oﬀ-line setup
Measurement
database
Calibration

In-line measurement

Real-time data feedback
Measurement database

Quality

Production

25

PROBES− Acquisition of Measurement Data with Interchangeable Sensors −A major inﬂuence on the speed of a CMM is the type of probe
used. The first CMMs used what are known as “hard-probes”,
which are rigidly fixed solid steel shafts with a cylinder-,cone- or ball-end mounted on the end of the ram, forming acontact point, which is carefully brought into contact with theworkpiece at points decided by the operator, at which time
the XYZ scale readings on the CMM axes are simultaneously
recorded by the operator pressing a foot switch. A dataprocessing unit then performs the simple calculations required
to determine the actual coordinates of the surfaces at the
points probed. This type of probe, although now obsolescent,still finds use in certain applications on manual CMMs.
In time, alternate types of probe which automatically signal
contact between the probe and workpiece were developed so
the operator was freed from the task of pressing a footswitch.
One variation of the hard probe used electrodes attached to thestylus and workpiece to generate a touch signal by the closing

MPP-310Q

26

SurfaceMeasureof the electrical circuit that was formed immediately upon
contact of the probe and a conductive workpiece.
However, it was the Touchtrigger Probe launched by Renishaw
plc in England that enjoyed explosive popularity and pointed theway to the future. This probe was composed of two elements:a small and light stylus that carried a small contact point on
the end, and a probe body that supported the stylus by aspring-loaded kinematic mounting and which was itself rigidly
attached to the ram. On contact with a workpiece the stylus
was lifted off its mounting which broke an electrical circuit
and generated a trigger signal. This was an epoch-making
probe that was palm-sized, had high-repeatability and would
not scratch a workpiece, but the key attribute it introduced
was its “resilience” due to the spring-loading of the contacting
element. This meant that the moving elements of the CMM did
not have to stop immediately the probe contacted a workpiece,
but could travel a small distance afterwards to allow smooth

QVP

and controllable deceleration. It was soon realized that thismade possible the development of CMMs operating underautomatic powered control. In time, with the advent of the
microprocessor, practical CNC operation of the CMM followed.
As CMM development shifted from the manual to the CNCtype, an automatic rotary head made its debut to meet theneed to change probe orientation within a measuring cycle
without human intervention. This gave an impetus to theproliferation of the CNC CMM. Recently, various new typesof sensor have been developed. For example, high accuracy,
scanning, non-contact and so on.
If a commercial probe is not available for a specific use,
Mitutuyo develops a dedicated sensor. For example, thedetachable scanning probe and vision probe, both launchedby Mitutoyo, are among the world's first sensors of their type.
And the effective-thread-depth probe and ultra-small contact
point probe are sensors far ahead of all others of their type

SURFTEST PROBE

REVO

on the market. Mitutoyo has also succeeded with in-housemanufacture of non-contact laser probes that were unopposedon the market and, moreover, Mitutoyo was the first to lower
the price of a laser probe, up till then more expensive than thatof the CMM itself, to an affordable level.
Even when attempting to develop a new probe we will surely
fail unless we are familiar with the control technology for
operating it and have the ability to develop analysis software.
Mitutoyo has the motto "Create key technologies in house"
as one of its business policies. In order to achieve a groundbreaking solution, it is clearly advantageous to be familiar withtechnologies in as many fields as possible. If any one of thosetechnologies depends on another company, an ideal new
product will not be born. Mitutoyo is always ready to develop asolution for a new application.

PH20

Automatic Probe Changer27Peripheral equipment− Requirements for Providing the Highest Performance −Upon installation of a CMM in a facility, various types of
peripheral equipment are required depending on the modeland application. Mitutoyo would like to offer suggestions tomeet the intended applications of all customers by making useof its accumulated experience. If an ultra-high-accuracy CMM
is due to be introduced, a high-level temperature-controlled

Carrier device

room needs to be prepared. Also, if a general-purpose CMM
is installed in a production area in preparation for enabling
quicker inspection, a proper inspection room needs to be set
up. Mitutoyo is ready to cooperate with suppliers having theexperience necessary to meet the above requirements and a
track record of offering suggestions for them.

Seismic isolation system(THK CO., LTD)

Jig Pallet Manual Carrier System JIGDAS (TRESA Corporation)

28

A CMM which uses the factory air supply should also be
supplied with an air dryer (air-server) for top performance.
Recently, there have been growing instances where a CMM
has been installed in-line. In this case, Mitutoyo can make an
optimal proposal for what to do to transport a workpiece,
which jigs or fixtures are needed as well as other peripheral
equipment to support the measuring machine's operation.
We never have the idea that our relationship with a customer

Inspection room

will end with the sale of a measuring machine but arealways thinking about how to contribute to the customer's
manufacturing efficiency and what is the optimal proposal forthat purpose. Occasionally, we may suggest the introduction ofa product other than ours. Whenever you face a problem feel
free to consult with Mitutoyo and by all means make use of ourextensive experience in metrological applications.

Clamping tools

Air-server
Rotary table MRT320(For LEGEX)

29

Assessment of CMMs to ISO Standards■ Performance Assessment Method of
Coordinate Measuring Machines■ Maximum Permissible Limit in Repetitive Length
Measurements R0, MPL [ISO 10360-2:2009]
Maximum Permissible Limit in Repetitive Length Measurements R0, MPL[ISO 10360-2:2009]
After measuring the given length 3 times, evaluate variation inmeasurement results. Then, calculate the repeatability range R0.

Regarding the performance assessment method of the CMM, a revisionof the ISO 10360 series was issued in 2003, and was partially revised in2009. The following describes the standard inspection method including
the revised content.

6.0

Table 1 ISO 10360 series
ISO Standard No.
ISO 10360-1:2000
ISO 10360-2:2001
ISO 10360-3:2000
ISO 10360-4:2000
ISO 10360-5:2002
ISO 10360-6:2001

4.0

Year of issue
2002
2001
2000
2000
2002
2001

Error［µm］

Item
1
Terms
2
Length measurement*
3
Rotary table equipped CMM
4Scanning measurement
5Single/Multi-styli measurement**
6
Software inspection* Revised in 2009 **Revised in 2010

-4.0
-6.0

Length meas. error 6
Z

Z

Y
X

Length meas. error 1（X）

X

Figure 1 Measuring directions to obtain length measurement errorE0,MPE (MPEE) = A + L/K ≦ B A: Constant (µm) specified by the manufacturer
K: Dimensionless constant specified by the manufacturer
E0,MPE (MPEE) = A + L/K
L: Measured length (mm)E0,MPE (MPEE) = B
B: Upper limit value (µm) specified by the manufacturer* ISO 10360-2:2009 specifies measurement in 4 different directions as
essential and recommends measurement parallel to each axis, while ISO
10360-2:2001 specified the measurement "in arbitrary 7 directions."

The following error definitions were added in ISO 10360-2:2009.

■ Maximum Permissible Length Measurement Error/ Length Measurement Error when Z-axis stylus
offset is 150mm E150, MPE [ISO 10360-2:2009]

Standard value

600

Measurement length [mm]800

The test procedure under this standard is to place two standard sphereson the rotary table as shown in Figure 4. Rotate the rotary table to a totalof 15 positions including 0˚, 7 positions in the plus (+) direction, and 7
positions in the minus (-) direction and measure the center coordinates of
the two spheres in each position.
Z
Sphere B
Then, add the uncertainty of thestandard sphere shape to eachYhvariation (range) of radial directionrelements, connecting direction
Xelements, and rotational axishSphere A
direction elements of the twohstandard sphere center coordinates.
If these calculated values are lessthan the specified values, theFigure 4 Evaluation of a CMM with a rotary tableevaluation test is passed.
A■ Maximum Permissible Scanning Probing Error
MPE THP [ISO 10360-4:2000]
This is the accuracy standard for a CMM if equipped with a scanning probe.
Scanning probing error was standardized in ISO 10360-2:2009 for the first time.
The test procedure under this standard is to perform a scanning measurementof 4 planes on the standard sphere and then, for the least squares sphere center
calculated using all the measurement points, calculate the range (dimension ‘A’ in
Figure 3) in which all measurement points exist. Based on the least squares spherecenter calculated above, calculate the distance between the calibrated standard
sphere radius and the maximum measurement point or minimum measurement
point, and take the larger distance (dimension ’B’ in Figure 3). Add an extended
uncertainty that combines the uncertainty of the stylus tip shape and the uncertaintyof the standard test sphere shape to each A and B dimension. If both calculated
values are less than the specified values, this scanning probe test is passed.

In addition to length measurement in 7 directions, ISO 10360-2:2009 specifies
measuring in 2 lines over the diagonal YZ or XZ plane with probe offset.
Note: The stylus offset is set at 150mm as default.

3
400

B

Length meas. error 7

Y

2
200

Figure 3 Repeating range of length measurement

Length meas. error 4

Length meas. error 2（Y）

1
0

■ Maximum Permissible Rotation Axis RadialDirection Error MPE FR, Maximum Permissible
Rotation Axis Connecting-Direction Error MPE FT,
and Maximum Permissible Rotation Axis AxialDirection Error MPE FA [ISO 10360-3:2000]

Using the standard CMM with specified probe, measure 5 different
calibrated lengths 3 times each in 7 directions within the measuring
volume (as indicated in Figure 1), making a total of 105 measurements.
If these measurement results, including the allowance for the uncertainty
of measurement, are equal to or less than the values specified by the
manufacturer, then it proves that the performance of the CMM meets its
specification.
The result of OK/NG is required to be judged considering theuncertainties.
The maximum permissible error (standard value) of the test may be
expressed in any of the following three forms (unit: µm).
Length meas. error 5

R0

0.0

-2.0

■ Maximum permissible length measurement
error E0,MPE [ISO 10360-2:2009]

Length meas. error 3（Z）

2.0

StylusLeast square sphere

45°

Calibrated value ofstandard sphere radius

Scan plane 2
Scan plane 1

Scan plane 3
Least square
sphere center

Scan plane 4

150mm
Y

Z

Z
X

Figure 2 Length measurement error when Z-axis stylus offset is 150mm

30

X or Y軸

A
B

150mm

Measurement point

X or
Y軸
Figure 3 Target
measurement
planes for the maximum permissible scanningprobing error and its evaluation concept

■ Maximum Permissible Single Stylus Form
Error PFTU, MPE [ISO 10360-5:2010]
This measurement was included in the dimensional measurement in
ISO 10360-2:2009. However, it is specified as "CMMs using single andmultiple stylus contacting probing systems" in ISO 10360-5:2010.
The measurement procedure has not been changed, and the following
should be performed.
Measure the defined target points
on a standard sphere (25 points, as
in Figure 6) and use all the results
22.5゜
to calculate the center position
22.5゜
aof the sphere by a least squares
22.5゜
method.
22.5゜Then, calculate the distance R fromthe center position of the sphereby a least squares method for eachof the 25 measurement points, and22.5゜
obtain the radius difference Rmax
- Rmin. If the radius difference, towhich a compound uncertainty
of forms of the stylus tip and thestandard test sphere are added, isequal to or less than the specified
value, it can be judged that theprobe has passed the test.
Figure 2 T arget points for determining theMaximum Permissible Probing Error■ Measurement Uncertainty of CMM
Measurement uncertainty is an indication used for evaluating reliabilityof measurement results.
In ISO 14253-1:2013, it is proposed to consider the uncertainty whenevaluating the measurement result in reference to the specification.
However, it is not easy to estimate the uncertainty of the measurement
performed by a CMM.
To estimate the uncertainty of the measurement, it is necessary
to quantif y each source of the uncertainty, and determine how it
propagates to themeasurement result. The CMM is capable ofhaving all types of settings that determine how the measurement
should be performed, such as measurement point distribution, or
datum definition, according to the drawing instruction or operator's
intention. This feature makes it harder to detect the source of uncertainty
inﬂuencing the result. Taking the circle measurement as an example, justa difference of one measurement point and its distribution causes thenecessity of recalculation of the uncertainty.
Also, there are many sources of uncertainty to be considered with the
CMM and their interactions are complicated.
Because of the above, it is almost impossible to generalize on how toestimate measurement uncertainty of the CMM.

Positioning of measuring
pointsMeasurement task

Data processing

CMM
Environment
Workpiece

Probe

Uncertainty of measurement
Major contributions that cause measurement uncertainty of the CMM■ Measurement uncertainty of the CMM andthe Virtual CMM software
The Virtual CMM software enables estimation of complicatedmeasurement uncertainty of a CMM. The software simulates a CMM on
a PC based on its machine characteristics and performs virtual (simulated)measurements. The simulated measurements are performed according to
the part program created by the operator. The machine characteristics areevaluated from experimental values based on geometrical characteristicsof the actual machine, probing characteristics, and temperatureenvironment, etc. The measurement uncertainty of the CMM can be easily
estimated by using the Virtual CMM software package.
ISO15530 Part 4 (ISO/TS 15530-4(2008)) defines how to verify the validityof task-specific measurement uncertainty using computer simulations.
Virtual CMM conforms to this specification.

CMM

Probe

Environment

Quantification of CMM uncertainty elements by experiment
Note: Virtual CMM is a software package originally developed by PTB (PhysikalischTechnische Bundesanstalt).
Relevant parts of ISO15530: Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS) -- Coordinate measuring machines (CMM): Technique for determining the uncertainty ofmeasurement -Part 3: Use of calibrated workpieces or measurement standards
Part 4: Evaluating task-specific measurement uncertainty using simulation [Technical Specification]

Uncertainty of center
position
Uncertainty of circle profile

Example of circle measurement by CMM

31

Maximizing CMM Performance
Operation of the CMM has been simplified for making complicatedmeasurements through the evolution of software and the Graphical(d) Firmly mount the reference sphere, probe and stylus withoutlooseness.

User Interface (GUI). Even so, since a CMM is relatively complex,
being comprised of a probe and software in addition to the main

3. Cleaning

unit, it is true that detailed knowhow is needed to attain highly

If dirt and dust adhere to the reference sphere, probe, stylus orreliable measurement data. Depending on whether you have thisworkpiece, measurement accuracy may be adversely affectedknowhow or not, measurement results may be unreliable to themore than supposed. Be sure to properly clean them before

extent that an acceptable product is rejected as NG and a NG

measurement. In this case, do not use organic solvent such as

product is accepted, which may well have a significantly negative

alcohol. Otherwise the adhesive joining the contact point to theimpact on your company. The following introduces precautions to be

stylus stem may be dissolved.

taken to maximize CMM performance to avoid this situation.

Preparation

Performing measurement
1．Precautions to be taken for data point entry

1. Selection of an appropriate stylus(a) Data points capture and approach direction of the stylus(a) Select an appropriate contact point size.
• The smaller the diameter, the larger the influence of surface texture(such as roughness or scratches) will be on measurement accuracy..
(b) Select an appropriate contact point material• An aluminum alloy part should not be measured with a rubycontact point as this alloy will adhere to the ruby (causingmaterial pickup), marring the workpiece surface and reducing
measurement accuracy. Use a stylus with a different contact pointmaterial such as tungsten carbide.

• Positively touch the contact point on each target point.
• The stylus should approach the target surface as close as possible
to the normal direction (to prevent the contact point slipping
sideways away from the target point).
(b) Distribution of data points• Taking data points from the widest possible length or area over afeature ensures the highest accuracy. (For example, probe points allaround the periphery of a hole, not close together. See below.)(c) Do not use a longer stylus than required• Do not allow the stylus stem to contact the workpiece instead of
the contact point (known as shanking).
2. Mounting the workpiece on the measuring table(a) A workpiece shall not be movable by the measuring force applied(c) Number of probed points

by the contact point.
(b) Do not mount a workpiece so that it may be deformed• In order to reduce the influence of the touch-trigger probe's• The most common cause of this is by applying large clamping

orientation and any outlier points due to dirt and dust, it isforces to thin, unsupported sections of a workpiece. Also, a longdesirable to increase the number of data points. However, there isand thin part may deform under its own weight, so should be

an optimum number of points and this is a compromise between

supported in a manner as close as possible to that experienced

efficiency and accuracy.

when in service.
ℓ

2．Coping with drawing instructions that make measurement difficultℓ(a) A short reference feature(a≒0.577ℓ)

aAiry points(At which both end faces become parallel)
A 100mm or longer gauge block is supported
at the Airy points point as the standard position.

a(a≒0.559ℓ)

Bessel points(At which change in length of the neutral axis is minimized)c) Fix a workpiece so as to prevent deformation (such as twist) due totemperature variation.

Even if the ambient temperature
increases, a workpiece is allowed
to expand without distortion.

Workpiece

Rollerstopper

FixtureGranite measuring table

As the ambient temperature increases, a workpieceis deformed because its thermal expansion coefﬁcientis higher than that of the granite table.

Example of mounting method wherea workpiece is deformed

32

Example of mounting method wherea workpiece remains undeformed• A short measuring length as in the following figure will enlarge
measurement error. In this case, evaluate the reference portion
with reference to the evaluating portion (in consultation with thecustomer, see below).
A◎A

About Data Consistency(b) Only a small part of feature is allowed to be measured• If circle measurement is performed at each portion of R4,500
and R5,500 in the figure below, an excessive error will result. It is
more reliable to evaluate whether measurement points are withintolerance by providing a nominal curve for the segment to bemeasured.
Nominal curve
Tolerance limit(Displayed with errors magniﬁed)

R4
,50

500

0

R5,

Data point(c) For a virtual reference line
• In the case of the figure below, it is not possible to correctly set thereference for measurement. It is optimal to minimize measurement
error using the best-fit function while creating a temporaryreference by use of circle 1, and with circle 2 undefined as thereference.
Circle 2
Circle 1 (arc)

In order that a product that has been delivered with CMM
measurement data attached will not be returned as NG from acustomer having a CMM, it is important discuss the measuringmethod with the customer beforehand and that you both agree to:(1) Confirm whether it is best to use a CMM or another measuring machine.
(2) Use the same diameter and length of stylus.
(3) Mount the product in the same position and with the sameclamping force.
(4) Confirm whether it is acceptable to correct the product form by clamping.
(5) Firmly mount even a heavy product.
(6) Use the same reference position for measurement.
(7) Use the same data entry points and the same number ofmeasuring points.
(8) Use the same calculation method (mean circle or inscribed circle
for circle measurement).
(9) Use the same substitute method in the case of a difficult
measurement.
(10) Confirm the measurement environments (such as ambient
temperature).

Daily MaintenanceA measuring machine is the last link in the chain that assures
manufacturing quality, and will sustain the credibility of amanufacturer if it is in efficient working order. It is extremely
important to always maintain the high performance of a CMM by(d) Tapped hole position

performing proper maintenance.

• If a tapped hole position is measured with normal circle[Routine check items]

measurement, its center position will not be stable. Consequently,
the hole axis is located by inserting a screwed plug or pin gage.
However, this method is time consuming and becomes an error
factor as well due to the unavoidable clearance between the holeand gage. The use of the tapped hole macro function to performcylinder measurement in a spiral fashion allows high-accuracy
direct measurement of tapped holes.

h

0.1mm

Large center position error

Small center position error

Normal measurement

Tapped hole macro measurement●Tapped hole center measured with the tapped hole macro function▲Tapped hole center measured by screwing thread gage
(4 times for each measurement)
Measurement is performed with a thread gage while changing the insertion angle at a 90° pitch.
The clearance between the thread gage and tapped hole manifests itself as an error.

(1) Supplied air pressure [Daily](2) Air filter, mist separator: Check for accumulation of water/oil[daily], and replace elements yearly.
(3) Cleaning of each guideway.
If moisture or fine dust and dirt adheres to a guideway surface,wipe it off with a soft, lint-free cloth or paper. If stains, such as
caused by oil, are not removed, use a volatile solvent (dehydrated
alcohol, etc.). [Daily](4) Measuring table (granite)
Wipe off stains with a dry, soft cloth, or with a dedicated cleaner
or alcohol-moistened cloth. Absolutely do not use water or oil
because it will expand the granite. [Occasionally](5) Each axis scale
Any dirt on the scale will cause miscounting. If oil, including oil
mist, adheres to the scale, wipe it off with an alcohol-moistened
cloth. [Occasionally](6) Air filter on the control unit
Clean or replace the air filter depending on the rate ofcontamination.

33

Domestic Network

Providing the highest quality services is our mission. In order to support a broad range of customer needs,
Mitutoyo is strengthening its network to enable support to be provided even more quickly and effectively.
We are expanding our circle of trust with customers through our integrated service system,
which ranges from consultations and proposals to after-sales support.

Sendai Sales Office

Utsunomiya Sales OfficeSuwa Sales OfficeOsaka Sales Office

Fukuoka Sales Office■ Sales■ Service Center■ Calibration Center■ M3 Solution Center

Sales
Sendai Sales Office

TEL (022) 231-6881 FAX (022) 231-6884
Kooriyama Resident Office TEL (024) 931-4331

Utsunomiya Sales Office

TEL (028) 660-6240 FAX (028) 660-6248
Tsukuba Resident Office TEL (029) 839-9139

Isesaki Sales Office

TEL (076) 222-1160 FAX (076) 222-1161

Osaka Sales Office

TEL (044) 813-8213 FAX (044) 822-4136

Utsunomiya Service Center

Keiji Sales Office

Yokohama Service Center

TEL (077) 569-4171 FAX (077) 569-4172

Okayama Sales Office

Kawasaki Sales Office

TEL (082) 427 -1161 FAX (082) 427-1163

Atsugi Sales OfficeService Centers
Techno-Service Business Division

TEL (06) 6613-8801 FAX (06) 6613-8817
Kobe Resident Office TEL (078) 924-4560

TEL (0270) 21-5471 FAX (0270) 21-5613
Niigata Resident Office TEL (025) 281-4360
Saitama Resident Office TEL (048) 667-1431
TEL (044) 813-1611 FAX (044) 813-1610
Tokyo Resident Office TEL (03) 3452-0481

TEL (086) 242-5625 FAX (086) 242-5653

Hiroshima Sales Office
Fukuoka Sales Office

TEL (092) 411-2911 FAX (092) 473-1470

TEL (028) 660-6280 FAX (028) 660-6257

TEL (045) 938-5718 FAX (045) 938-5721

Suwa Service Center

TEL (0266)53-5495 FAX (0266)58-1830

Nagoya Service Center

TEL (052) 731-7100 FAX (052) 731-6110

Anjo Service Center

TEL (0566) 96-0745 FAX (0566) 96-0747

TEL (046) 226-1020 FAX (046) 229-5450
Fuji Resident Office TEL (0545) 55-1677

Osaka Service Center

Suwa Sales Office

Hiroshima Service Center

TEL (0266) 53-6414 FAX (0266) 58-1830
Ueda Resident Office TEL (0268) 26-4531

Hamamatsu Sales Office

TEL (053) 464-1451 FAX (053) 464-1683

Anjo Sales Office

TEL (0566) 98-7070 FAX (0566) 98-6761

Nagoya Sales Office

TEL (052) 741-0382 FAX (052) 733-0921

34

Kanazawa Sales Office

TEL (06) 6613-8813 FAX (06) 6613-8818
TEL (082) 427-1164 FAX (082) 427-1163

Fukuoka Service Center

TEL (092) 411-2909 FAX (092) 482-7894

Seismic monitoring system Service Section
Testing machine Service Section
TEL (045) 938-5718 FAX (045) 938-5721

Overseas Service Support Section
TEL (044) 813-8247 FAX (044) 822-4136

Calibration Centers
Utsunomiya Measurement
Standards Calibration Center
TEL (028) 656-1432 FAX (028) 656-8443

Kawasaki Calibration Center

TEL (044) 813-8214 FAX (044) 813-8223

Hiroshima Calibration Center
TEL (0823) 70-3820 FAX (0823) 70-3833

M3 Solution Centers
UTSUNOMIYATEL (028) 660-6240 FAX (028) 660-6248

TOKYO

TEL (044) 813-1611 FAX (044) 813-1610

SUWA

TEL (0266) 53-6414 FAX (0266) 58-1830

ANJO

TEL (0566) 98-7070 FAX (0566) 98-6761

OSAKA

TEL (06) 6613-8801 FAX (06) 6613-8817

HIROSHIMA

Please contact to M3 Solution Center FUKUOKA.
Or Please contact to Hiroshima Sales Office.

FUKUOKATEL (092) 411-2911 FAX (092) 473-1470

Global Network

Following the establishment of MTI Corporation (U.S.) in 1963, Mitutoyo has been expanding its market throughout the world.
Currently, the company has R&D, manufacturing, sales, and engineering service bases in 31 countries, as well as a network of
distributors in some 83 countries. Mitutoyo maintains its rock solid status as a leading global manufacturer providing services
tailored to each regional society.

Mitutoyo Europe GmbH

Mitutoyo（UK）L.td.

Mitutoyo France S.A.R.L

Mitutoyo America
Corporation Head Office

Mitutoyo Italiana S.R.L.

Mitutoyo Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd.
Regional Headquarters■ Sales

EuropeEuropeMitutoyo Europe GmbH
Neuss, GERMANY

Germany

Mitutoyo Deutschland GmbH
Neuss, GERMANY
M3 Solution Center Hamburg
Hamburg, GERMANY
M3 Solution Center Berlin
Berlin, GERMANY
M3 Solution Center Eisenach
Eisenach, GERMANY
M3 Solution Center Ingolstadt
ngolstadt, GERMANY
M3 Solution Center Leonberg
Leonberg, GERMANY
Mitutoyo-Messgeräte Leonberg GmbH
Leonberg, GERMANY

U.K.

Mitutoyo (UK) Ltd.
Hampshire UNITED KINGDOM
M3 Solution Center Coventry
Warwickshire, UNITED KINGDOM
M3 Solution Center Halifax
West Yorkshire, UNITED KINGDOM
M3 Solution Center East Kilbride
East Killbride, UNITED KINGDOMFranceMitutoyo France
Paris, FRANCE
M3 Solution Center LYON
Saint-Priest Cedex, FRANCE
M3 Solution Center STRASBOURG
Geispolsheim, FRANCE
M3 Solution Center CLUSES
Scionzier, FRANCE
M3 Solution Center TOULOUSETOULOUSE, FRANCE

Italy

Mitutoyo ITALIANA S.r.l.
Corso Europa, ITALY
M3 Solution Center TORINO
Volpiano (TO), ITALY
M3 Solution Center CHIETI
Rocca S. Giovanni (CH), ITALYNetherlands

Mitutoyo Nederland B.V.
KX Veenendaal, THE NETHERLANDS

Belgium

Mitutoyo Belgium N.V.
Kruibeke, BELGIUM

SwedenMitutoyo Scandinavia AB
Upplands Väsby, SWEDEN
M3 Solution Center Alingsas
Alingsas, SWEDEN
M3 lution Center Värnamo
Värnamo, SWEDEN

Finland

Mitutoyo Scandinavia Aktiebolag Finnish Branch
Pirkkala, FINLAND

Switzerland

Mitutoyo Schweiz AG
Urdorf, SWITZERLAND

PolandMitutoyo Polska Sp.z o.o.
Wroclaw, POLAND

Czech Republic

Mitutoyo Cesko, s.r.o.
Teplice, CZECH REP

Hungary

Mitutoyo Hungária Kft.
Budapest, HUNGARYMSA Gurgaon technical center Gurgaon, INDIA ☆
Mumbai Region Head office
Mumbai, INDIA
Pune Office / M3 Solution Center
Pune, INDIA
Vadodara office
Vadodara, INDIA
Bengaluru Region Head office / M3 Solution
CenterBengaluru, INDIA
Chennai Office / M3 Solution Center
Chennai, INDIA
Kolkata Office
Kolkata, INDIA

Romania

Mitutoyo Romania SRLOTOPENI-ILFOV, ROMANIA

Russian Federation

Mitutoyo RUS LLC
Moscow, RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Austria

Mitutoyo Austria GmbH
Traun, AUSTRIASoutheast and South Asia
Singapore

Mitutoyo Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd.
Head Office / M3 Solution Center
SINGAPORE

Malaysia

Mitutoyo (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.
Kuala Lumpur Head Office / M3 Solution Center
Selangor, MALAYSIA
Penang Branch office / M3 Solution Center
Penang, MALAYSIA
Johor Branch office / M3 Solution Center
Johor, MALAYSIA

Indonesia

PT. Mitutoyo Indonesia
Head Office / M3 Solution Center
Bekasi, INDONESIA

Thailand

Mitutoyo (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Bangkok Head Office / M3 Solution Center
Bangkok, THAILAND
Cholburi Branch / M3 Solution Center
Cholburi , THAILAND
Amata Nakorn Branch / M3 Solution Center
Cholburi, THAILAND

Vietnam

Mitutoyo Vietnam Co., Ltd.
Hanoi Head Office / M3 Solution Center
Hanoi, VIETNAM
Ho Chi Minh City Branch Office / M3 Solution
CenterHo Chi Minh City, VIETNAM

Philippines

Mitutoyo Philippines, Inc.
Laguna, PHILIPPINES

India

Mitutoyo South Asia Pvt. Ltd.
Head Office / M3 Solution Center
New Delhi, INDIA

East Asia
TaiwanMitutoyo Taiwan Co., Ltd. / M3 Solution Center
TaipeiTaipei City TAIWAN (R.O.C.)
Taichung Branch / M3 Solution Center Taichung
Taichung City, TAIWAN(R.O.C.)
Kaohsiung Branch / M3 Solution Center
Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung City, TAIWAN(R.O.C.)

South Korea

Mitutoyo Korea Corporation
Head Office / M3 Solution Center
Gyeonggi-do, KOREA
Busan Office / M3 Solution Center
Busan, KOREA
Daegu Office / M3 Solution Center
Daegu, KOREA

China

Mitutoyo Measuring Instruments (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
Shanghai, CHINA
Suzhou Office / M3 Solution Center China (Suzhou)
Suzhou, CHINA
Wuhan OfficeWuhan, CHINA
Chengdu OfficeSichuan, CHINA
Hangzhou OfficeHangzhou, CHINA
Tianjin Office / M3 Solution Center Tianjin
Tianjin, CHINA
Changchun Office
Changchun, CHINA
Qingdao Office / M3 Solution Center Qingdao
Shandong, CHINA
Xi’an Office
Xi’an, CHINA
Dalian Office / M3 Solution Center Dalian
Dalian, CHINA
Zhengzhou OfficeDistrict,Zhengzhou City, CHINA
Mitutoyo Leeport Metrology (Hong Kong)
Limited
Kwai Chung, NT, HONG KONG
Mitutoyo Leeport Metrology (Dongguan) Limited/ M3 Solution Center Dongguan
Guang Chang Road, Chong Tou Zone
Mitutoyo Leeport Metrology (Dongguan)
Limited – Fuzhou office
Fuzhou City, CHINA
Mitutoyo Leeport Metrology (Dongguan)
Limited – Changsha officeHunan Province, CHINA

Americas
U.S.A.

Mitutoyo America Corporation
Aurora, U.S.A.
M3 Solution Center-Illinois
Aurora, U.S.A.
M3 Solution Center-Ohio
Mason, U.S.A.
M3 Solution Center-Michigan
Plymouth, U.S.A.
M3 Solution Center-California
City of Industry, U.S.A.
M3 Solution Center-North Carolina
Huntersville, U.S.A.
M3 Solution Center-Alabama
Hoover, U.S.A.
M3 Solution Center-Massachusetts
Marlborough, USA
M3 Solution Center-Washington
Renton, U.S.A.
M3 Solution Center-Texas
Houston, U.S.A.

CanadaMitutoyo Canada Inc.
Mississauga, Ont. L5N 5N1., CANADA
Montreal OfficeQuebec, CANADA

Argentina

Mitutoyo Sul Americana Ltda.
Argentina Branch
Buenos Aires – ARGENTINA
Sucursal Cordoba
Cordoba, ARGENTINA

MexicoMitutoyo Mexicana S. A. de C. V.
Estado de México, MÉXICOMonterrey Office / M3 Solution Center
Guadalupe, MÉXICO
Tijuana Office / M3 Solution Center
Tijuana, MÉXICO
Querétaro Office / M3 Solution Center
Fraccionamiento Observatorio
Aguascalientes Office / M3 Solution Center
Aguascalientes Ags, MÉXICO
Irapuato Office / M3 Solution Center Irapuato
Irapuato, Gto., MÉXICO

BrazilMitutoyo Sul Americana Ltda.
São Paulo - SP, BRASIL
Regional Office
Belo Horizonte - MG
Rio Grande do Sul / PR, SC
Rio de Janeiro - RJ
Santa Barbara D’Oeste - SP
Norte, Nordeste, Centro Oeste

35

152 1708(2)A-(CH)NE, Printed in Japan

Coordinate Measuring Machines

Vision Measuring Systems

Form Measurement

Optical Measuring

Whatever your challenges are, Mitutoyo
supports you from start to finish.
Mitutoyo is not only a manufacturer of top quality
measuring products but one that also offers qualified
support for the lifetime of the equipment, backed up
by comprehensive services that ensure your staff canmake the very best use of the investment.
Sensor Systems

Test Equipment
and Seismometers

Digital Scale and DRO Systems

Small Tool Instruments
and Data Management

Apart from the basics of calibration and repair,
Mitutoyo offers product and metrology training,as well as IT support for the sophisticated software
used in modern measuring technology. We can also
design, build, test and deliver bespoke measuringsolutions and even, if deemed cost-effective, takeyour critical measurement challenges in-house on a
sub-contract basis.

Find additional product literatureand our product catalogue
http://www.mitutoyo.co.jp/global.html
Mitutoyo Corporation
Our products are classified as regulated items under Japanese Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Law. Please consult us
in advance if you wish to export our products to any other country.
If the purchased product is exported, even though it is not a regulated item (Catch-All controls item), the customer service
available for that product may be affected. If you have any questions, please consult your local Mitutoyo sales office.
Note: Product illustrations are without obligation. Product descriptions, in particular any and all technicalspecifications, are only binding when explicitly agreed upon.
MITUTOYO and MiCAT are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Mitutoyo Corp. in Japan and/or other countries/regions.
Other product, company and brand names mentioned herein are for identification purposes only and may be thetrademarks of their respective holders.

20-1, Sakado 1-Chome,
Takatsu-ku, Kawasaki-shi,
Kanagawa 213-8533, Japan
T +81 (0) 44 813-8230
F +81 (0) 44 813-8231
http://www.mitutoyo.co.jp