Software Retrofit Package Upgrades CNC Or Manual CMMs

Modern Machine Shop, July, 2000 by Elizabeth M. McPhail

The Virtual DMIS upgrade software package is for any make, type or size CMM. It is said to provide the power of PC-based, 32-bit technology. By combining the latest software development tools and CAD and CMM industry standards, the software is said to enable seamless collection, analysis, visualization and communication of data throughout the manufacturing environment. It provides graphical programming, intelligent measuring, surfacing, pictorial output and SPC and fully linking 3D CAD data with the CMM inspection process. The software also has been upgraded to every brand, model and type of CMM ever produced, providing a complete engineering database.

Virtual DMIS includes an error-correction system to enhance the machine accuracy. Built-in machine accuracy checking routines include ball bar, step gage and length bar.

The company offers retrofit programs for both manual and CNC machines. A typical manual program includes the software, new scale signal processing electronics, installation, calibration and a two-day training program. A CNC program includes new motion 32-bit controller, the software, the PC, installation, calibration and four days of training. Benefits of the software include virtual CMM and probe, single page screen, full drag and drop capabilities, multitasking and multithreading and multimedia help with voice, video and text.