Pcdmis Pro

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Preface
PC-DMIS Version 3.6
Document Revision 1.0
July 2004
This workbook is written as an aid to learning PC-DMIS measurement software in a

structured training class.
This workbook contains:
Forms to be filled out during class by attending student

Class syllabi
Supplemental training documentation to be used as reference during or after class
Web sites and phone numbers for technical support
Notes pages to aid in note taking during the lecture portion of the class
Lab exercises that are performed during the hands on portion of the class
Demo block part prints
Toolbar key to aid in navigating thru the toolbars in PC-DMIS
Bonus hands on lab exercises to be used as a practical reference to perform tasks
not necessarily covered in the curriculum of the class.
o Examples would be:
Dimensioning, Constructions, Comments and Editing
Inserting digital pictures into the part program
Using the Quick start menu to write a complete part program
Using Marked sets and Pattern offsets to streamline programming
This workbook was created by Steve Gregorio using Microsoft Word
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Table of Contents
Introduction ....... 5
Student Background Questionnaire .. 6
PC-DMIS PRO Class Syllabus .. 7
Notes Pages ..... 8
PC-DMIS Menus .. 39
Vectors ... 41
Probe Changers 48
TP20/TP200 probe changer ... 49
SP600 probe changer .. 54
Alignment Summary . 59
Auto Features . 62
Construct Point .. 64
True Position . 66
Web Sites & Phone Numbers 76
Additional Class Syllabi 78
Editing .Dat Files .. 86
Analysis Window... 90
Course Evaluation .. 92
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Table of Contents
Lab Exercises........ 94
Lab 1 PC-DMIS Overview.. .. 95
Lab 2 Probe Qualifications 101
Lab 3 Manual Alignments of the Demo Block 107
Lab 4 Manual Alignment of the Demo Block......... 114
Lab 5 Measuring using Auto Features. 118
Lab 6 Alignment and Measurement of the Demo Block.. 125
Demo Block Part Prints... 129
Toolbar Key... 132
Bonus Lab Exercises 137
Using the Quick Start Menu 138
Dimensioning, Constructions, Comments and Editing... 145
Inserting Digital Pictures using Hyper Reports... 150
Inserting Digital Pictures as an External Object 152
Using Pattern Offsets and Marked Sets...... 156
Quizzes.. 159
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Introduction
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Student Background Questionnaire

Personal information
Name:
___________________________________
Company Telephone #: (
Company: _______________________________________________________
) __________________
Address: _______________________________________________________
Email address: ______________________________

Title (or job description):
Check this box if you do not wish to receive any training promotions via email
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Experience
CNC machine tool programming experience
Yes
No
CAD/CAM experience
Is your company planning on using CAD for programming in PC-DMIS?
Yes
Yes
No
No
If yes then which CAD package will be used? _______________________________________________________________________________

Do you have GD & T experience and are comfortable reading blue prints?
Yes
If yes then how was this experience acquired?
Hands on training
Formal Training
Please rate your experience level using a windows based computer:

CMM experience:
Yes
No
If yes:
None
Manual CMM
No
Basic
Automatic CMM
Advanced
Number of years ________
Machine information
Type and size of machine being used at your facility:
_________________________________________________________________________
Type of probe head on the above system:
_________________________________________________________________________
Training information
List other Brown and Sharpe classes you have attended (give dates): ______________________________________________________________
What do you expect to learn from this class?
_________________________________________________________________________
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PC-DMIS PRO
Class Syllabus
Course Objective: To train first time users of PC-DMIS to attain a basic understanding of the
software, and measurement necessary to write and execute part programs.
Pre Requisite:
Basic Knowledge of PCs in the windows environment.

Subject
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
CMM overview and demonstration

PCDMIS Overview
File Management
Tool Bar
Lab Exercise 1
Probes
Calibration/Qualification
Probe Utilities
Lab Exercise 2
Quiz # 1
Work Planes
Feature Recognition
Comments
Basic Part Alignments Part 1
Probe Readout Window
Edit Window
Lab Exercise 3
DCC Mode
Clearance Plane
Move Options
Parameters
Dimensioning Part 1
Print Options
Execute Options
Lab Exercise 4
Quiz # 2
Auto Features
Vector Point, Circle and Cylinder
Edit Window/Hot keys
Setup Options
Lab Exercise 5
Dimensioning Part 2
Constructions
Lab Exercise 6
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Notes Pages
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Open File Dialog Box

File|Open
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File Operations Toolbar
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New File Dialog Box
File| New
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File Operations Toolbar
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Menus & Toolbars
Edit
Window
Graphics Display
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Sections of the PC-DMIS Interface

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Quit Message
Top: File| Quit Btm: File| Operations

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Operations Menu
Toolbars
View| Toolbars
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View Setup
Edit| Graphics Display Window| View Setup

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Graphics Modes Toolbar
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Insert| Report Command| Save Viewset

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Saving Views
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Scale to Fit
Translate Mode
2-D Rotate
3-Dimensional Rotate
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Probe Utility Window
Operation| Calibrate/Edit |Active Probe

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Shortcut: Ctrl+Alt+P
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Double click on probe component

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Un-drawing Parts of a Probe Configuration
Measure Probe Screen
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From Probe Utility Window: Measure Button

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Add Tool Dialog Box

From Measure Probe Screen: Add Tool Button
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Qualification Tool Message
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A0B0 Message
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Add Angles
From Probe Utility Window: Add Angles Button
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Calibration Results Screen

From Probe Utility Window: Results Button
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Work Planes
A=TOP
ZPLUS
B=RIGHT
XPLUS
C=BACK
YPLUS
D=BOTTOM
ZMINUS
E=LEFT
XMINUS
F=FRONT
YMINUS
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Shortcut: Settings Toolbar
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7 Feature Recognition Feature Types

Point
Circle
Line
Cylinder
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Plane
Sphere
Cone
Change a Guessed Feature Type

Edit| Override Guess
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Feature Measurement Hot Keys
Alt -
Deletes a hit
Ctrl+D
Deletes the last feature
End
Finishes a feature
(same as Done button)
Comment
Insert| Report Command| Comment
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Step Method
1. Level
2. Rotate
3. Origin
Alignment Screen
Insert |Alignment| New
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Left: View| Probe Readouts

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Right: Edit| Preferences| Probe Readout Setup
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Auto Align
1. Select Features for alignment
a. The order that features are selected in
is very important
b. Select features for Level, Rotate, and
Origin in that order
2. Push the auto align button
3. Carefully verify the construction of the
alignment
4. Edit as necessary by highlighting the line that
needs to be changed
Insert |Alignment| New

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Shortcut: Ctrl+Alt+A
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Alignment Offset Methods

1. Theoretical Distance
2. Feature
3. Angle
Saving an Alignment Externally

Insert |Alignment| Save
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Insert |Alignment| Recall
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Shortcut: Alignment Drop Down Menu
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Recalling an Alignment
Insert| Parameter Change| Probe| Manual / DCC Mode
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Shortcut: Probe Mode Toolbar
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Probe Mode
Clearance Plane
Insert| Parameter Change| Clearance Planes

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Or Edit| Preferences| Parameters (F10)
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Moves
Insert| Move
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Motion Parameters
Edit| Preferences| Parameters| Motion Tab
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Shortcut: F10
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Dimension Icons
Insert| Dimension
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Dimension Toolbar
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Location Screen
Insert| Dimension| Location
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Dimension Toolbar
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Distance
Insert| Dimension| Distance
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Dimension Toolbar
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Dimension Output Options

Edit| Preferences| Parameters| Dimension Tab
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Report Formatting
Edit| Preferences| Edit Window Layout| Report Tab
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Print Options
File| Printing| Edit Window Print Setup
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Edit Dimension Colors
Edit| Graphics Display Window| Dimension Color

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Execute Icons
Edit| Markings
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Edit Window Toolbar
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Auto Feature Vector Point
Insert| Feature| Auto| Point| Vector

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Auto Feature Toolbar
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Auto Feature Circle

Insert| Feature| Auto| Circle
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Auto Feature Cylinder
Insert| Feature| Auto| Cylinder

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General Setup Options
Edit| Preferences| Setup| General Tab

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Shortcut: F5
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Dimension Setup Options

Edit| Preferences| Setup| Dimension Tab
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ID Setup Options
Edit| Preferences| Setup| ID Setup Tab

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Edit| Preferences| Set Search Path

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Set Search Path
Import
File| Import
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Processing an IGES File
File| Import| IGES| Import Button

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CAD=Part & Find Nominals
Top: Insert| Alignment| New (Ctrl+Alt+A)

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Bottom: Edit| Preferences| Setup (F5)
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Shading a Solid CAD Model
Edit| Graphics Display Window| View Setup

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Changing CAD Colors
Edit| Graphics Display Window| CAD Elements

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Curve vs. Surface Mode
Deleting CAD Elements
Edit| Delete| CAD Elements

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Construction Icons
Insert| Feature| Constructed

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Construction Screens
Insert| Feature| Constructed| Point or Line
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Construction Toolbar
Toolbar
Construction
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Construction Screens
Insert| Feature| Constructed| Circle or Plane
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True Position
Insert| Dimension| True Position

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Angle Between
Insert| Dimension| Angle Between
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Roundness
Insert| Dimension| Roundness
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Concentricity
Insert| Dimension| Concentricity

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Operation| Graphics Display Window| Screen Capture To
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Screen Captures
Edit Default Dimension Information

Insert| Dimension| Any Dimension| Edit Button
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Text Box Mode
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Graphics Mode Toolbar
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Adds these items to the Right Click Menu
Editing Hot Keys

F7 & F8: Within a selected toggle field, cycles forward
(F7) or backward (F8) to the next alphabetical entry
F9: Opens the dialog box associated with the command
at the cursor's position
Ctrl + End: Moves the cursor to the end of the program
Ctrl + Home: Moves the cursor to the beginning of the
program
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Editing
(Left Picture) Right Click on Feature Label
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(Right Picture) Edit| Delete
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Edit| Graphics Display Window| Feature Appearance
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View|
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Edit Window Toolbar
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Edit Window Modes
File| Partial Execution
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Partial Execution Menu
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Edit| Bookmarks
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Edit Window Toolbar
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Bookmarks
Edit| Breakpoints
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Edit Window Toolbar
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Breakpoints
Turn Statistics On
Insert| Statistics Command| Statistics

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Edit| Preferences| Setup| Dimension Tab

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Auto Stats
Output To
Insert| Dimension| Any Dimension
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Create a New Datapage Database

1. File| Editor
2. Database|New
3. Type in or browse for location
4. Yes to: Do you want to create?
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Trace field
Insert| Statistics Command| Trace field

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Pass Through Planes

Insert| Parameter Change| Clearance Planes
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Customize Toolbar
View| Toolbars| Customize
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View| Toolbars| Customize| New| Toolbar

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New Toolbar
View| Toolbars| Customize| New| Item

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New Item
Window Layout Toolbar

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Saving Window Layout
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Quickstart Toolbar
View| Toolbars| Quick Start

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Adding Your Logo to the Report

1. Create logo as a bitmap
2. Open logo.dat with a text editor
3. Type in pathname next to #BMP
4. Save logo.dat
Analysis in Graphics Window
Insert| Dimension| Any Dimension| Analysis Section
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Analysis in Separate Window

Insert| Report Command| Analysis
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Insert| Report Command| Analysis| View Window Button
Example of Graphical Analysis
Insert| Report Command| Analysis| Textual

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Example of Textual Analysis
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PC-DMIS Version for Technical Support
Help| About PC-DMIS for Windows

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Probe Utility Setup Options
Operations| Calibrate/Edit| Active Probe| Setup Button
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PC-DMIS
MENUS
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PC-DMIS Main Menus
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Vectors
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Vectors
A vector is the mathematical description of a direction and is used by the CMM software
to know in which direction to drive the CMM perpendicular to a surface or feature.
A dimension coordinate uses X,Y, Z to define its location, a vector uses I,J,K to define its
direction, in this way the two cannot be confused. I represents the X direction, J
represents the Y direction and K represents the Z direction.
y The I,J,K values define the proportion that a particular direction affects the vector.
y The vector which defines the direction of the +X axis is 1,0,0
y The vector which defines the direction of the -X axis is -1,0,0
y The vector which defines the direction of the +Y axis is 0,1,0
y The vector which defines the direction of the -Y axis is 0,-1,0
y The vector which defines the direction of the +Z axis is 0,0,1
y The vector which defines the direction of the -Z axis is 0,0,-1
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Vector directions
+X vector
+Y vector
+Z vector
-X vector
-Y vector
-Z vector
A vector is displayed as a single line with an arrow on the end of it, the end with the
arrow on it defines the direction that positive is going in. The six vectors discussed above
are shown below relative to the CMM axis system. The X,Y,Z representation of the axes
of the CMM is called a tetrahedron and shows the positive direction of the 3 axes of
measurement.
What do I,J and K actually represent ?

When a vector is expressed, numbers between
positive 1 and negative 1 are assigned to the I,J
and K values, The first number I, represents the
Cosine of the angular difference between the
direction of the vector and the direction of the
X axis. The second number J, represents the
Cosine of the angular difference between the
direction of the vector and the direction of the
Y axis.
1,0,0
0,-1,0
0,0,1
The third number K. represents the Cosine of

the angular difference between the direction of
the vector and the direction of the Z axis.
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In the following examples let us look at them in 2 dimensions instead of three, we will assume
that the third dimension has no effect.
Example 1
The difference between the vector and the +X
axis is 90 deg. the Cosine of which is 0.
The difference between the vector and the +Y
axis we are assuming to be 90 deg. the Cosine
of which is 0.
The difference between the vector and the +Z
axis is zero, the Cosine of which is +1.
Our vector is therefore I=0, J=0, K=1 or 0,0,1
Example 2
In this next example let us assume that
difference between the vector and +X is 90
deg, the Cosine of which is 0.
The difference between the vector and the
+Y axis is zero deg., the Cosine of which is
+1.
axis is 90 deg. the Cosine of which is 0.
Our vector is therefore I=0,J=1,K=0 or 0,1,0
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Example 3
In this example the difference between the
vector and the +X axis is 45 deg. the Cosine of
which is +.7071.
The difference between the vector and +Y we
are assuming to be 90 deg. the Cosine of which
is 0.
axis is 45 deg. the Cosine of which is +.7071.
Our vector is therefor I=.7071,J=0, K=.7071 or
.7071,0,.7071.
Example 4
In this example the difference between our
vector and the +X axis is 45 deg. the Cosine of
which is +.7071.
Let us assume that the difference between the
vector and the +Y axis is 90 deg. the Cosine of
which is 0.
The difference between the vector and -Z axis is
-45 deg. the Cosine of which is -.7071.
Our vector is therefore =.7071,J=0,K=-.7071 or
.7071,0,-.7071
Our previous examples were all shown in 2 dimensions to make it a little easier to understand.
When we go to three dimensions the concept is identical, the math is just a little harder.
Luckily that is one of the benefits of having a computer, we only have to understand what it is
doing rather than how.
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Why are vectors so important ?

As we have already seen, vectors define direction (the last two examples show the effect of
changing the K vector from +1 to -1. The software uses this information in several ways, for
example, if we have a cylinder as a feature on the part, does the cylinder go up or does it go
down, the vector of its axis will tell.
The vector in this example is 0,0,1
The vector in this example is 0,0,-1
Probe travelling down wrong vector

The other very important use of vectors is in probe compensation, as the software uses the
direction of the vector for compensating a point. The initial point is taken, when under DCC
control, by the machine driving down the opposite vector of the point, probe compensation is
done along this same vector. If this were not done, then you could not confirm which position
the stylus ball had hit the surface, Cosine Error would result.
-46-
Unless probe travelling down correct vector Cosine error will occur
Probe travelling down correct vector
Probe travelling down correct vector therefore no Cosine error
-47-
Probe Changers
-48-
Instructions for using a TP20/TP200 Probe Changer

Positioning the Probe Changer on the machine
1. Using one of the allen wrenches that was provided with the probe changer, tighten the
circular plate down in the desired hole.
2. Position the rack over the circular plate.
3. Align the rack so that it is roughly parallel to one of the machines axes.
4. Using an allen wrench, tighten the rack loosely to the table.
5. Move the probe over so that it is above one edge of the rack.
6. If possible, using the button on the jog box, lock the axis that the probe changer is
parallel to.
7. Move the probe to the other end of the probe changer.
a. If the probe is not still located above the edge of the changer, make small
adjustments as necessary and repeat the above process until it is.
b. This action squares the probe changer to the machine.
8. Using an allen wrench, fully tighten down the probe changer to the table.
Setting up the Probe Changer in PC-DMIS

1. Build all probe files for the probes that will be used in the rack.
2. Go to Edit| Preferences| Probe Changer. The following screen will appear.
If you have a TP200

stylus changer, then
Active Probe
changer would be
TYPE=TP200
If you have a TP200
the Probe Changer
Type would be
TP200
3. Type in the number of probe changers that are on the machine.

4. Select the appropriate Probe Changer Type for each probe changer from the pull
down list
-49-
5. Set the docking speed.

a. The docking speed is the speed at which the machine moves into the rack
and picks up or drops off probes. The default of 5% of machine speed is
generally acceptable.
6. Push the apply button. Notice that three other tabs are now visible on the probe
changer dialog box.
7. Select the Calibrate Tab. The following screen should be visible:
If you have a TP200

Active Probe
changer would be
TYPE=TP200
8. Make sure that the probe changer that you are setting up is selected in the Active
Probe Changer pull down list.
9. Select the probe file that is currently on the machine from the Active Probe File pull
down list.
a. Note: TP20 and TP200 racks should be calibrated with a 2mm by 20mm
probe tip. (this probe should be calibrated before performing the rack
calibration)
10. Select T1A0B0 from the Active Tip pull down list.
11. Push the calibrate button.
a. Follow the instructions on the screen. You will be prompted to take two
manual hits.
b. Once the manual hits have been taken, the calibration routine will proceed
in DCC mode.
c. When the routine is complete the rack is calibrated. PC-DMIS now knows
where the rack is located on the machine.
-50-
12. Press the Apply button and then select the Mount Point tab. The following screen will
appear:
If you have a TP200

Active Probe
changer would be
TYPE=TP200
13. Type in the appropriate Probe Head Wrist Angle.

a. This angle controls what orientation the probe is in when it approaches the
rack.
b. Make sure to orient the probe modules in the rack based on this angle.
14. Create the mount point for the rack by entering values in the X, Y, and Z boxes or by
moving the probe on the machine to the desired location and pressing the Read CMM
button.
a. The mount point is a safe point that the machine will move to before and
after changing probes. The machine should be clear to move from this
point into any slot in the rack.
b. The mount point is generally located above and slightly in front of the
center of the rack. However, if you are using long star probes, the mount
point may need to be in front of and below the rack so that the star can
move into position safely.
-51-
15. Press Apply and then select the Slots tab. The following screen will appear:
If you have a TP200

Active Probe
changer would be
TYPE=TP200
16. This screen allows you to select the probe files that will be located in each slot.
a. Click on the + to the left of the slot that you want to modify.
b. Double click on (no probe) or whatever other probe file is displayed.
c. Select the desired probe file from the list.
d. Repeat this for each slot.
e. If you will not be putting a probe in a particular slot just skip that one or
select no probe.
Loading the probes into the stylus changer

Orient each module so that the shapes are in the appropriate position. This position is
based on the Probe Head Wrist Angle that was selected on the Mount Point tab of the
probe changer setup screen. The easiest way to determine the correct orientation is to
rotate the probe to the position that it will be in when it goes into the rack and then orient
the modules the same way.
-52-
How to Incorporate the Probe Changer into a Part Program

1. Select the desired probe file from the pull down menu (Ex. 3by20, 4by50, etc)
2. Go to Operation| Load Active Probe
a. This is the command that actually tells the machine to go and pick up the
new module when you are writing the program. This will be done
automatically when the program is executed.
b. A screen will appear asking you to select the currently loaded probe. Make
sure that the probe file selected matches the one that is currently on the
machine not the one that you want it to go and pick up.
c. Watch the machine closely the first time that it picks up each probe. The
orientation of the module may not be exactly correct. If this happens, be
prepared to move the module slightly so that the magnetic connection is
made. Once the tip has been picked up the first time the machine will put
it back in the same spot every time.
3. Clearance moves must be inserted into the program to allow the machine to move
from your part to the mount point for the probe changer and then from the mount
point back to your part.
-53-
Instructions for using a SP600 Probe Changer

Positioning the Probe Changer on the machine
1. Using one of the allen wrenches that was provided with the probe changer, tighten
the circular plate down in the desired hole.
2. Position the rack over the circular plate.
3. Align the rack so that it is roughly parallel to one of the machines axes.
4. Using an allen wrench, tighten the rack loosely to the table.
5. Move the probe over so that it is above one edge of the rack.
6. If possible, using the button on the jog box, lock the axis that the probe changer is
parallel to.
7. Move the probe to the other end of the probe changer.
a. If the probe is not still located above the edge of the changer, make small
adjustments as necessary and repeat the above process until it is.
b. This action squares the probe changer to the machine.
8. Using an allen wrench, fully tighten down the probe changer to the table.
Setting up the Probe Changer in PC-DMIS

1. Build all probe files for the probes that will be used in the rack.
2. Go to Edit| Preferences| Probe Changer. The following screen will appear.
3. Type in the number of probe changers that are on the machine.

4. Select the appropriate Probe Changer Type for each probe changer from the pull
down list
-54-
5. Set the docking speed.

a. The docking speed is the speed at which the machine moves into the rack
and picks up or drops off probes. The default of 5% of machine speed is
generally acceptable.
6. Push the apply button. Notice that three other tabs are now visible on the probe
changer dialog box.
7. Select the Calibrate Tab. The following screen should be visible:
8. Make sure that the probe changer that you are setting up is selected in the Active
Probe Changer pull down list.
9. Select the probe file that is currently on the machine from the Active Probe File
pull down list.
Note: This rack should be calibrated with a 8mm by 50mm probe tip. (this
probe should be calibrated before performing the rack calibration)
10. Select T1A0B0 from the Active Tip pull down list.
11. Push the calibrate button.
a. Follow the instructions on the screen. You will be prompted to take two
manual hits.
b. Once the manual hits have been taken, the calibration routine will proceed
in DCC mode.
c. When the routine is complete the rack is calibrated. PC-DMIS now knows
where the rack is located on the machine.
-55-
12. Press the Apply button and then select the Mount Point tab. The following screen
will appear:
13. Type in the appropriate Probe Head Wrist Angle.

a. This angle controls what orientation the probe head is in when it
approaches the rack.
b. When using an SP600 probe, it is a good idea to use a probe head wrist
angle that you do not use to measure things in your part program. This is
because you want the module to reseat itself after each probe change.
A0B90 is an orientation that will only be used with star configurations and
is therefore usually a good choice for the probe head wrist angle.
c. Make sure to orient the probe modules in the rack based on this angle.
14. Create the mount point for the rack by entering values in the X, Y, and Z boxes or
by moving the probe on the machine to the desired location and pressing the Read
CMM button.
a. The mount point is a safe point that the machine will move to before and
after changing probes. The machine should be clear to move from this
point into any slot in the rack.
b. The mount point is generally located above and slightly in front of the
center of the rack. However, if you are using long star probes, the mount
point may need to be in front of and below the rack so that the star can
move into position safely.
-56-
15. Press Apply and then select the Slots tab. The following screen will appear:
16. This screen allows you to select the probe files that will be located in each slot.
a. Click on the + to the left of the slot that you want to modify.
b. Double click on (no probe) or whatever other probe file is displayed.
c. Select the desired probe file from the list.
d. Repeat this for each slot.
e. If you will not be putting a probe in a particular slot just skip that one or
select no probe.
Loading the probes into the stylus changer

Orient each module so that the white dot is in the appropriate position. This position is
based on the Probe Head Wrist Angle that was selected on the Mount Point tab of the
probe changer setup screen. The easiest way to determine the correct orientation is to
rotate the probe to the position that it will be in when it goes into the rack and then orient
the modules the same way.
-57-
How to Incorporate the Probe Changer into a Part Program

1. Select the desired probe file from the pull down menu (Ex. 8by100, 8by50, etc)
2. Go to Operation| Load Active Probe
a. This is the command that actually tells the machine to go and pick up the
new module when you are writing the program. This will be done
automatically when the program is executed.
b. A screen will appear asking you to select the currently loaded probe. Make
sure that the probe file selected matches the one that is currently on the
machine not the one that you want it to go and pick up.
c. Watch the machine closely the first time that it picks up each probe. The
orientation of the module may not be exactly correct. If this happens, be
prepared to move the module slightly so that the connection is made. Once
the tip has been picked up the first time the machine will put it back in the
same spot every time.
3. Clearance moves must be inserted into the program to allow the machine to move
from your part to the mount point for the probe changer and then from the mount
point back to your part.
-58-
Alignment
Summary
-59-
Alignment Summary
Definition of an alignment
A part alignment represents the Datum Reference Frame specified on the
drawing (True Position Diameter .010 to A, B and C). The Primary, Secondary
and Tertiary datums constrain 6 degrees of freedom.
Definition of the 6 degrees of freedom

3 degrees of rotation (about the X, Y and Z-axis).
3 degrees of translation (origin (zero) in X, Y and Z-axis).
Definition of Alignment commands

Level
Constrains 2 degrees of rotation such that the Leveled axis matches the vector of
the selected feature. Note: This will always be the Primary Datum and must be a
3D feature with a vector. Typical features: Plane, cylinder, cone or a constructed
3D line or plane.
Rotate
Constrains 1 degree of rotation about the Leveled axis such that the Rotated axis
matches the vector of the selected feature. Note: This will always be the
Secondary or Tertiary datum and must be a 2D or 3D feature with a vector.
Typical features: Plane, line, cylinder or cone.
Note: You can select any (2) point type features to simulate a line that can be used
to Rotate.
Example: 2 points, 2 circles, 2 spheres or a combination (simulates a line through
2 points, the direction of which is based on the order of the selected features).
-60-
Origin
Constrains 3 degrees of translation (origin / zero) in the X, Y and Z-axes.
Note: Set origin on primary, secondary and tertiary datums or as per drawing
requirements. Typical features: Any feature.
Alignment Tips
1.
Level first, Rotate second and Set Origins in X, Y and Z-axes. Never
Rotate before Leveling!
2.
Always Level before measuring 2D features (lines, circles or slots).
3.
Always Level and Rotate before measuring 1D points (measured point in

X, Y or Z-axis).
4.
There is no limit on the number of alignments saved in a program.
5.
An alignment can be saved to a file using the SAVE ALIGNMENT

command. This is typically done to create a fully automated program
dependent on a holding fixture for the part.
Example
1.
Create a program that establishes an alignment on a fixture and save the

alignment to a file (filename.aln).
2.
Create a part program, recall alignment file at the beginning of the

program and turn DCC on before measuring the first feature.
3.
When executing the program the CMM will pause, prompt the operator to
load the part, then automatically measure the part. (no manual alignment)
RH Rule of Rotation
1.
Point your right hand thumb in the positive direction of the axis you are
rotating about (+X, +Y or +Z).
2.
The direction your hand naturally curls is positive rotation. Negative

rotation is the opposite direction.
-61-
Auto Features
-62-
Auto Vector Point Creation Methods

Using Keyed in Data for a Vector Point
This method allows you to key in the desired X, Y, Z, I, J, K values for the vector point.
Using Surface Data on the Screen for a Vector Point
1.Click on the Surface Mode icon
2.Position the cursor in the Graphics Display window to indicate the desired location of
the point (on the surface)
3.Click on the surface. PC-DMIS will highlight the selected surface.
4.Verify that the correct surface has been selected.
Using Wire frame Data on the Screen for a Vector Point
1.Click on the Curves Mode icon
2.Select two edges (wires) of the surface where the target point will be by clicking on the
desired wires with the left mouse button. (These wires should be on the same surface.)
PC-DMIS will highlight the selected wires.
3.Verify that the correct wires have been selected.
4.Select the target point on the created surface. This final selection will be projected into
the plane that is formed by the two wire vectors and the first wire's height.
Without using CAD Data for a Vector Point
Measure four points on the surface using the CMM. The first three will be used to
calculate the approach vector and the last hit will determine the x,y,z location
Auto Feature Circle Creation Methods

Using Keyed in Data for an Auto Circle
This method allows you to key in the desired X, Y, Z, I, J, K, D values for the circle.
Using Surface Data on the Screen for an Auto Circle
1.Click on the Surface Mode icon.
2.Click on 1 location around the edge of the circle.(preferably this click should be on the
surface rather than in the hole) This click is needed for PC-DMIS to compute the
necessary X, Y, Z, D and I, J, K, data.
Using Wire frame Data on the Screen for an Auto Circle
1.Click on the Curves Mode icon
2.Click near the desired wire-frame circle. (click inside the circle for a hole and outside
the circle for a stud)
3.Verify that the correct feature has been selected. The probe approach is always
perpendicular to the feature, as well as perpendicular to the current probe centerline
vector.
Without using CAD Data for an Auto Circle
1.Take three hits on the surface to find the plane that the circle is lying in.
2.Take three additional hits in the hole (or on the stud). PC-DMIS calculates the auto
circle using all three hits.
-63-
Construct
Point
-64-
Construct Point Information
CONSTRUCT SYMBOL IN EDIT

FEATURE TYPE
WINDOW
Cast Point
CAST
Corner Point
CORNER
Drop Point
# OF
INPUT
FEATS
1
FEAT #1: FEAT #2: FEAT #3:
COMMENTS
Any
Constructs point at centroid of input feature
Plane
Plane
Plane
Constructs point at the intersection of 3 planes
DROP
Any
Cone,
Cylinder,
Line,
Slot
First feature is dropped onto the second line feature
Intersect Point
INTOF
Constructs point at the intersection of the linear

attribute of 2 features
MID
Circle,
Cone,
Cylinder,
Line,
Slot
Any
Mid Point
Circle,
Cone,
Cylinder,
Line,
Slot
Any
Constructs Mid Point between centroids of the inputs
Offset Point
OFFSET
Any
Requires 3 offsets corresponding to X,Y, & Z
Origin Point
ORIGIN
Constructs point at alignment origin
Pierce Point
PIERCE
Cone,
Cyliner,
Line, Slot,
Circle,
Ellipse
Cone,
Cylinder,
Plane,
Sphere,
Circle,
Ellipse
Constructs point where feat_1 pierces surface of

feat_2. Order of selection is important. If first feature is
line, direction is important.
Project Point
PROJ
Any
Plane
1 input feature will project point to work plane
1 or 2
-65-
True Position
-66-
Additional Help for True Position Dimensions

Introduction
This document has been written as an additional resource for answering common
questions that arise with true position dimensions. It should be used after understanding
the True Position section of the Dimension Options chapter in the PC-DMIS help file,
because questions of basic use of these dimensions are explained there. However, PCDMIS V3.2 included some new enhancements to true position dimensions and several
questions have been presented by users. This document will address some of these
questions.
Datums
PC-DMIS V3.2 introduced the ability to select multiple datums. One advantage of this is
that the user can set the datum(s) directly with the dimension, instead of having to create
an alignment with a circular feature to be used in the DD axis. Another advantage is that
by arranging the order of the datums, the user can control the directions that are used for
the X, Y, and Z axes. A third advantage of the ability to select multiple datums, and the
main reason for the new enhancement to PC-DMIS, is that more than one datum can be a
circular feature and have MMC or LMC defined according to the ASME Y14.5M 1994
Dimensioning and Tolerancing standard. However, with these advantages comes the
responsibility to correctly choose the order of the datums. In some cases, changing the
order of some of the datums can result in an unexpected measured, deviation, or bonus
tolerance value.
Types of Features Used as Datums

One common scenario for designs that utilize True Position dimensions is to use a circle
or cylinder as the sole datum feature. Another accepted practice is to select a set of
datum features that follow 3-2-1 alignment principles. (Remember, the minimum
definition for a datum is 3 datum points to describe the first datum, 2 datum points to
describe the second datum and 1 datum point to describe the third datum.) This means
that the selected features would be a plane, a line, and then a single point. However, any
of the datums could have more points than the minimum. This means that 3-2-1
alignment principles can also be used with plane/line/line, plane/line/circle,
plane/plane/plane, plane/cylinder/cylinder, and many other combinations.
-67-
Order of Features Used as Datums

A combination of datums that is important to discuss here is the plane/circle/ circle
because the order of the circles is important in order establish the correct datum reference
frame, which is essentially an alignment for the particular dimension.
CIR2
PLN1
Y
CIR3
CIR1
X
Figure 1 Example part.
Figure 1 shows an example part from which the following dimensions LOC1 and LOC2
were created:
DIM LOC1= TRUE POSITION OF CIRCLE CIR3 UNITS=IN ,$
GRAPH=OFF TEXT=OFF MULT=1.00 OUTPUT=BOTH
AX NOMINAL
MEAS
+TOL
-TOL
BONUS
DEV
DEVANG
X
0.0000
0.0000
0.0000
Y
-7.0080 -7.0080
0.0000
Z
-0.5599 -0.5599
0.0000
DF
1.0000
1.0000
0.0010
0.0010
0.0010
0.0000
D1
PLANE PLN1 AT RFS
D2
1.0000
1.0000
0.0010
0.0010
0.0010 CIRCLE CIR1 AT MMC
D3
1.0000
1.0000
0.0010
0.0010
TP
MMC
0.0000
0.0020
0.0000 180.000
END OF DIMENSION LOC1
DIM LOC2= TRUE POSITION OF CIRCLE CIR3 UNITS=IN ,$
GRAPH=OFF TEXT=OFF MULT=1.00 OUTPUT=BOTH
AX NOMINAL
MEAS
+TOL
-TOL
BONUS
DEV
DEVANG
X
2.0000
2.0000
0.0000
Y
7.0080
7.0080
0.0000
Z
-0.5599 -0.5599
0.0000
DF
1.0000
1.0000
0.0010
0.0010
0.0010
0.0000
D1
PLANE PLN1 AT RFS
D2
1.0000
1.0000
0.0010
0.0010
D3
1.0000
1.0000
0.0010
0.0010
TP
MMC
0.0000
0.0020
0.0000 180.000
END OF DIMENSION LOC2
-68-
OUTTOL
0.0000
0.0000
OUTTOL
0.0000
0.0000
Notice that the order of the datums for D2 and D3 have been reversed for the two
dimensions, as displayed in Table 1.
Table 1 Datum reference frames for LOC1 and LOC2.
Dimension
DF
D1
D2
D3
X Axis of Reference Frame
LOC1
CIR3
PLN1
CIR1
CIR2
CIR1 CIR2
LOC2
CIR3
PLN1
CIR2
CIR1
CIR2 CIR1
The effect of this ordering is that the X, Y, and Z axes give different results, and can be
especially important if only two axes are being used to calculate the deviation for the
dimension, as is usually the case for circles.
CIR2
PLN1
X
Y
CIR3
CIR1
Figure 2 LOC1 Datum Reference Frame

Figure 2 shows that by selecting the datums in the order of PLN1, CIR1, and CIR2, the Z
axis is the same as the PLN1 normal vector, and the X axis used in the dimension is in the
direction of the line between the centers of CIR1 and CIR2. The origin of the reference
frame is positioned at CIR1. Then, the true position of circle CIR3 is measured from this
reference frame.
However, if the order of the datums is switched to PLN1, CIR2, and CIR1, the Z axis is
still the same as the PLN1 normal vector, but the X axis now is in the direction of the line
between the centers CIR2 and CIR1, with the origin at CIR2. This is shown in Figure 3.
-69-
Y
CIR2
PLN1
CIR3
CIR1
Figure 3 LOC2 Datum Reference Frame

In summary, there are some datum sets where the X axis of the datum reference frame
must be calculated between two features, as opposed to directly taking the vector from a
line or a slot. Care must be taken in order to select the appropriate sequence of datums.
Bonus Tolerance
Whenever a circular feature is used in a true position dimension, whether as the main
feature or a datum, the Maximum Material Condition (MMC) or Least Material
Condition (LMC), or Regardless of Feature Size (RFS) can be selected. If the circular
feature is a hole, MMC is the smallest hole allowed by the diameter tolerance, while
LMC is the largest hole allowed. If the circular feature is a pin, MMC is the largest pin
allowed by the diameter tolerance, and LMC is the smallest pin allowed. For most cases,
the MMC is the appropriate material condition to use. See the Dimensioning and
Tolerancing standard ASME Y14.5M 1994 for special cases where LMC is the preferred
method.
-70-
Figure 4 shows the increase in positional tolerance (bonus tolerance) due to deviation
from the MMC for a hole, as interpreted from the ASME standard.
Tolerance zone when hole is at

MMC (minimum diameter)
Tolerance zone increased by an amount equal to
departure from MMC (larger than minimum diameter)
Bonus tolerance allowed due to
departure from MMC
True position
Hole at MMC
(minimum diameter)
Actual hole
(larger than minimum diameter)
Figure 4 Increase in Positional Tolerance where Hole is not at MMC.
-71-
One Circular Datum

Versions of PC-DMIS prior to V3.2 only had the ability to use one circular datum. As
Figure 5 shows, in the case where there is only one circular datum the total bonus
tolerance for the features TP axis is a sum of the increase in individual bonus tolerance
of the feature (DF axis) and the datum (D1 axis). In other words, the feature is allowed to
move its position even more than the initial TP plus tolerance by the total amount that the
feature and datum deviate from their MMC conditions, as long as their diameters are
within their own diameter tolerances.
Increase in tolerance
Feature
Datum
Figure 5 Increase in Positional Tolerance for Both the Feature and the Datum.
-72-
Multiple Circular Datums

However, a confusion arises from the case that is illustrated in Figure 6, where there are
two circular datums (actually there are three datums the top plane, and then the two
circles, but for our purposes here the plane isnt illustrated). In this case, it is NOT
correct to assume that the total bonus tolerance of the feature is the sum of the individual
bonus tolerances of the feature and the two datums. The reason is that while the bonus
tolerance from datum 1 allows the feature to move in one direction, the bonus tolerance
from datum 2 allows the feature to move in another direction, and additionally the bonus
tolerance from the feature itself allows for movement of the position in any direction.
The restrictions from these datums depend upon the distances from the feature to the
datums, as well as the directions to those datums. If the bonus tolerance from datum 1 is
smaller than the bonus tolerance from datum 2, the features position may not be able to
move much in the Y direction, even though there is enough bonus tolerance there.
Y
Datum 2
Increase in tolerance
Feature
Datum 1
Figure 6 Increase in Positional Tolerance for the Feature and Two

Circular Datums
In order to calculate the correct bonus tolerance for the entire dimension (TP axis), PCDMIS creates an initial guess of the coordinate system or datum reference frame. The
initial guess is from the 3-2-1 alignment system created from the three datums. Then the
-73-
reference frame is moved using 2D or 3D best fit methods as it is adjusted within the
degrees of freedom and within the allowable positional tolerance. Because of this, when
you change the plus tolerance of the TP axis, the axes will be recalculated and the
measured and deviation values may differ slightly than those of a true position dimension
that only differs by the plus tolerance of the TP axis. This best-fit method calculates the
position of the datum reference frame that provides the largest tolerance allowed for the
dimension (both from the total bonus tolerance and the TP plus tolerance).
Composite Positional Tolerance

Figure 7 shows a composite positional tolerance of a pattern of holes. This is called
composite positional tolerance because there are two separate tolerance values that are
interrelated. This type of tolerance is used to locate the entire feature pattern as well as
define the position and orientation of each of the features in the pattern set. For specific
interpretations of the tolerance zones please refer to Section 5.4 of the Dimensions and
Tolerances standard, ASME Y14.5M 1994. However, one important note here is that the
top part of the composite position dimension governs the individual holes, while the
bottom part of the dimension is applied to the entire pattern.
6X 5
+0.25
0
0.8
0.25
50
C
4X 45
50
50
B
-74-
In PC-DMIS V3.2, true position dimensions can be defined to allow for these types of
dimensions. In order to do this, first create a true position dimension for each of the four
small circles, making sure you select the appropriate datums, either the planes A, B, and
C, or features created from these planes that represent a 3-2-1 alignment. The TP plus
tolerance for this example would be the 0.8, as defined on the top part of the composite
position dimension.
.25 M
A
For the second part of the callout
the print is asking for the position of the holes relative to each other as opposed to
Datums A, B and C. The steps necessary to accomplish this would be as follows:
Be sure that the measured circles have Nominal data. Having nominals is
necessary for the upcoming best fit alignment.
Insert a 2-D Best fit alignment using the circles measured in the pattern. When
creating this alignment be sure that Translate & Rotate are selected.
Dimension the position of each hole in the pattern. Be sure to un-check Use
Datums when creating the dimension.
o Note: This dimension will report the position of the circles relative to each
other via the 2-D Best Fit Alignment. Also keep in mind that everything
that is dimensioned from this point on will be relative to this best fit
alignment Therefore, once this position is completely dimensioned be sure
to recall another alignment before dimensioning other features in the
program.
-75-
Web Sites
&
Phone Numbers
-76-
WEB SITES
www.brownandsharpe.com
Brown and Sharpe corporate website.

Information about software, CMMs, trade show schedule and more.
PC-DMIS Forum
o A forum to ask questions regarding PC-DMIS. These questions will be
responded to by Brown and Sharpe engineers, or fellow PC-DMIS users.
Training
o A list of all training classes offered by Brown and Sharpe and their
scheduled dates they are to be held.
o The list can be sorted by office (i.e. Elgin) to view classes offered in a
specific Precision Center.
o An email link and phone number for the National training coordinator
Rhonda Schulte. Use this link or phone number to register for any Brown
and Sharpe training class.
www.wilcoxassoc.com
A website created and managed by the creators of PC-DMIS.

Information (Release Notes) regarding released versions of PC-DMIS.
Versions of PC-DMIS software
o Note : Do not download and load any PC-DMIS versions unless
specifically instructed by Brown and Sharpe.
Help files to be viewed or downloaded for more advanced PC-DMIS functions.
Downloadable executable programs to help in certain applications. (i.e. A
program written to extract data from PC-DMIS and dump directly into a
Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet.)
www.pc-dmis.com
A website created and managed by a PC-DMIS user group.

A good resource for frequently asked questions.
PHONE NUMBER
Technical Support or Training
1 800 343 7933
When calling technical support please have available the serial number of your
machine and the version of PC-DMIS that is being used
Note: Go to Help| About PC-DMIS for Windows to obtain the version number
-77-
Additional
Class Syllabi
-78-
PC-DMIS CAD
Class Syllabus
Course Objective: To train first time users of PC-DMIS to attain a basic understanding of the
software, and measurement necessary to write and execute part programs.
Pre Requisite:
Basic Knowledge of PCs in the windows environment.
Subject
Day 1
Day 2
CMM overview and demonstration

PCDMIS Overview
File Management
Tool Bar
Lab Exercise 1
Probes
Calibration/Qualification
Probe Utilities
Lab Exercise 2
Quiz # 1
Work Planes
Feature Recognition
Comments
Edit Window
Lab Exercise 3
DCC Mode
Clearance Plane
Move Options
Parameters
Dimensioning Part 1
Print Options
Execute Options
Lab Exercise 4
Page 1 of 2
-79-
Subject
Day 3
Quiz # 2
Auto Features without CAD
Setup Options
Lab Exercise 5
CAD Introduction
Auto Features with CAD
Constructions
Lab Exercise 6
Quiz # 3
Dimensioning Part 2
Edit Window/Hot keys
Lab Exercise 7
Statistics
Pass Through Planes
Lab Exercise 8
Quiz # 4
Analysis Option
Review
Final Lab Exercise
Day 4
Day 5
Page 2 of 2
-80-
PC-DMIS CAD ++
Class Syllabus
Course Objective: To learn the functionality of the CAD ++ package including the Sheet Metal
options, and DCC Scanning using a solid CAD model.
Pre Requisite:
PC-DMIS CAD plus 100 hours
Subject
Day 1
Day 2
CAD Review
AUTO Features
Vector Point
Surface Point
Lab Exercises 1A and 1B
Edge Point
Angle Point
Corner Point
High Point
Plane
Line
Quiz # 1
AUTO Features
Circle
Cylinder
Square Slot
Round Slot
Sphere
Ellipse
Notch
Cone
Dimensioning Review
Marked Sets
Pattern Offsets
Lab Exercise 4
Page 1 of 2
-81-
Subject
Day 3
Day 4
Quiz # 2
Iterative Alignments
Overview and Demonstrations
Lab Exercises 5 and 6
Best fit Alignments
Analysis
Graphical and Textual
Introduction to Hyper Reporting
Lab Exercise 7
Quiz # 3
DCC Scanning
Overview and Demonstrations of:
Linear Open
Linear Closed
Patch
Lab Exercise 9
Section
Perimeter
UV Scan
Lab Exercise 10
Page 2 of 2
-82-
PC-DMIS Intermediate
Class Syllabus
Course Objective: To expand the knowledge of users of PC-DMIS beyond the basic level, with
or without the Curves and Surfaces package.
Pre Requisite:
Basic PC-DMIS DCC + 100 hours
Subject
Day 1
Probe Utilities
Tool Changer
Overview (if applicable)
Work Planes
Part Alignment
Review
Best fit 2D
Best fit 3D
Dimensioning
Day 2
CAD Review
Auto Utilities
With and without CAD
Move options
Iterative Alignment
Overview
Day 3
Edit Window
Marked Sets
Pattern Offsets
Analysis
Graphical and Textual
Analysis window
Graphics Options
Constructions
Introduction to Hyper Reporting
Day 4
Program Mode
Overview
Auto Features
Using Auto Features for off line programming
Path
Show and Animate Path
Machine Display
-83-
Datapage R/T for Windows

Class Syllabus
Subject
Day 1
Day 2
Statistical Process Control (SPC)

Overview and presentation
PC-DMIS Setup for Statistics

Steps necessary to collect statistics
Tracefields
DATAPAGE Introduction
Overview of Pull down menus and Toolbar
Opening a database
Creating a new database
File Menu
Overview
Report Menu
Overview of all Reports
Chart Menu
Overview of all Charts
Options Menu
Overview
Macro Mode
Datapage Editor
Overview of pull down menus
Queries
Variable Sets
ASCII data handling
Database management
Database backup and restore
Datapage error codes
Monitor Mode
-84-
Scanning with the SP600

Class Syllabus
Course Objective: This course is designed to train students in all aspects of measuring with the
SP600 scanning probe through lecture, demonstrations, and hands-on
experience.
Pre Requisite:
Basic PC-DMIS DCC/CAD + 100 hours, and Curves & Surfaces/CAD ++
Class length:
1 day
Subject
How an SP600 scanning probe works
Error mapping and Calibrating the SP600 scanning probe
Single point probing

Overview
Parameters
Maximizing the accuracies with the SP600 using single point probing
Probing soft material
Scanning
Parameters
Open loop scanning
Closed loop Scanning
Scanning soft material
Maximizing the accuracies with the SP600 using Scanning.
PC-DMIS scanning options
Gauss filters
-85-
Editing .Dat Files
-86-
Modifying .DAT Files

Logo.dat, Elogo.dat, Header.dat
LOGO.DAT
The PC-DMIS report has a logo that comes standard with the software. This is also referred to as
the header. The logo looks like the graphic below.
The logo contains a graphic and the date and time. The graphic is a Brown and Sharpe company
logo in a bitmap format. The date and time will be generated from the computer clock. This logo
can be modified to not include a graphic, or to include a graphic of your own choice (i.e. company
logo). In order to modify this logo it is necessary to modify a file that comes included with PCDMIS. This file is called LOGO.DAT. It should be located in the same directory as the PC-DMIS
software (i.e. PCDMISW). This file can be found using Windows Explorer or My Computer. Before
making any changes to the LOGO.DAT file it is recommended to create a backup copy.
If you want to remove the graphic from the logo, follow these steps:
Open the LOGO.DAT file. This should be opened in Notepad. It may be necessary to
associate the file to Notepad the first time it is opened.
This file should contain the following information:
#BMP=C:\PCDMISW\bns3.bmp
DATE=#DATE
Highlight and remove the entire first line. The file will now contain:
DATE=#DATE
TIME=#TIME
TIME=#TIME
Save the file after making this change. The report will now only display the date and time.
-87-
If you want to replace the graphic with a graphic of your own, follow these steps:
Open the LOGO.DAT file. This should be opened in Notepad. It may be necessary to
associate the file to Notepad the first time it is opened.
This file should contain the following information:
DATE=#DATE
TIME=#TIME
Place the graphic file (your company logo) into the same directory specified in the first
line of the LOGO.DAT file (PCDMISW). This graphic must be in bitmap format. Also, this
graphic cannot be resized or modified in PC-DMIS, therefore, size it accordingly before
inserting it into the LOGO.DAT file.
Change the file name in the first line to be the name of the graphic you wish to add.
An example of what the file will now contain:
#BMP=C:\PCDMISW\yourcompanylogo.bmp
DATE=#DATE
TIME=#TIME
Save the file after making this change. The report will now display the logo with the
graphic that has been referred to in the LOGO.DAT.
An example of the logo with a different graphic:
-88-
The following is a list of the available formatting keywords and their functions. You can insert
these keywords into the .DAT files to have them displayed in the report.
Formatting Keywords
NOTE: These keywords are case sensitive.
#DATE
#TIME
#PAGE
#TRn
#PARTN
#DRWN
#SERIALN
#SEQUENCE
#SHRINK
#NMEAS
#NOUT
#ELAPSTIM
#BMP
Inserts the current date.

Inserts the current time.
Inserts the current page number. This is ideal for use in the HEADER.DAT file.
Inserts the value of trace field n, when n is the trace field number.
Inserts the part program name.
Inserts the revision number.
Inserts the serial number
Inserts the sequence number.
Inserts the scale factor
Inserts the total number of dimensions.
Inserts the total number of dimensions that are out of tolerance.
Inserts the time elapsed between start and execution. This is ideal for use in the
ELOGO.DAT file.
Inserts a bitmap with the specified name in the bitmap path variable. You must
specify the full path of the bitmap file (i.e. D:\Files\Bmp\Pchead.bmp).
An example of what the file will contain with 3 trace field keywords added to the standard
LOGO.DAT:
DATE=#DATE
TIME=#TIME
#TR1
#TR2
#TR3
These keywords can also be added to the HEADER.DAT and ELOGO.DAT files.
The HEADER.DAT file determines what appears on the top of all pages other than the first page
of the report.
An example of this would be:
PART NUMBER=TRAINING
DATE=3/19/03 TIME=3:30:00 PM
PAGE#=2
The ELOGO.DAT file determines what appears at the bottom of the last page in the report. This
is also known as the footer.
An example of this would be:
END OF MEASUREMENT FOR
PN=TRAINING
DWG=REVISION 1
SN=123456
TOTAL # OF MEAS = 10
# OUT OF TOL =1
# OF HOURS =00:05:00
-89-
Analysis
Window
-90-
EXAMPLE ROUNDNESS PLOT IN ANALYSIS SCREEN
-91-
Course
Evaluation
-92-
BROWN & SHARPE TRAINING

COURSE EVALUATION
Name (Optional): ___________________________________
Course Instructor: __________________________________
Date:
Course Title:
___________________________________
Course in General:
__________________________________
(Please circle one)
Did the course meet your expectations?
Satisfied
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Dissatisfied
Please rate the course content.
Satisfied 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Dissatisfied
Please rate the classroom environment.
Satisfied 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Dissatisfied
Please rate this course overall.
Satisfied 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Dissatisfied
Please rate the instructors knowledge.
Satisfied 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Dissatisfied
Please rate the instructors response to questions.
Satisfied 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Dissatisfied
Please rate the instructors communication skills.
Satisfied 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Dissatisfied
Please rate the instructor overall.
Satisfied 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Dissatisfied
Please rate the written course materials.
Satisfied 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Dissatisfied
Please rate the lab equipment (machines).
Satisfied 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Dissatisfied
Please rate the projection/ overhead materials.
Satisfied
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Instructor:
Course Materials:
Comments and Suggestions for Improvements:
-93-
Lab Exercises
-94-
PC-DMIS PRO - Manual

Lab 1
PC-DMIS Overview
Purpose: A complete overview of PC-DMIS screens and toolbar functions. The following will be
accomplished in this lab:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Creating a New Part

Introduction to Display Screens and Saving Views
Translating and Rotating the Cad Model
Changing the Display Colors
Introduction to Setup Options
NOTE: Please refer to the included toolbar icon key in this workbook as a
reference to the toolbar icons mentioned in the lab exercises in this class.
I.
CREATING A NEW PART

1.
Activate PC-DMIS by double clicking the PC-DMIS icon.

a.
From the OPEN screen, Select CANCEL, if necessary.
b.
From the FILE menu, select NEW
c.
Place the cursor in the Part Name space, and type lab_1.
d.
Fill in Drawing Revision or Serial Number (optional).
e.
Select Inches.
f.
Select OK.
2.
The Probe Utilities window will appear.

a.
Highlight an existing probe file from the Probe File pull-down list.
b.
Select OK (Probes will be discussed in greater detail later on).
3.
From the FILE menu, select IMPORT.

a.
Select IGES from the Import submenu. From this window, highlight the
Bsbsolid.igs file. It may be necessary to Browse to the PCDMIS directory to
locate this IGES file. Once the file is selected, the file name will appear in the File
Name box. Click Import.
b.
At the IGES FILE screen click on the process button, and wait for completion,
then click OK.
-95-
Lab 1
II.
INTRODUCTION TO DISPLAY SCREENS AND CHANGING VIEWS
1. Before continuing, select the toolbars listed below. This can be accomplished in two ways:
1) From the View menu, select Toolbars. Now select the toolbars listed below.
2) Using the mouse, right click on the toolbar area of the display screen. This will
bring up a right click menu similar to what is shown below. Now select the
toolbars.
Position the toolbars as desired in the toolbar area of the display. This is done by dragging
the toolbars with the left mouse button and dropping them in their desired location.
2.
3.
a.
Click on the SCALE TO FIT Icon.
b.
c.
Click the CREATE VIEW Icon.

Type 1VIEW in the name space and hit OK.
a.
b.
c.
Select the VIEWSETUP icon from the tool bar.

Click on the first Blue/Red icon under the Layout portion of the window.
For the Views choose: Blue: Z+, Red: ISO by hitting the down arrow and
scrolling down to the selection.
Press APPLY and then OK.
Click on the scale to fit icon.
Pick the CREATE VIEWS icon and name this view: 2VIEWS.
Click OK.
d.
e.
f.
g.
-96-
Lab 1
4.
a.
From the Views ID pull-down list select 1VIEW.

The software will prompt the operator:
OK to insert a RECALL/VIEWSET command in the part program?
b.
c.
III.
1.
Select No at this time. The graphics display window will change from the 2
views currently displayed back to the single view of the demo block.
In order to see the 2 views again, simply repeat the above procedure and select
2VIEWS. At the next prompt, click NO.
TRANSLATING AND ROTATING THE CAD MODEL

a.
b.
Press the TRANSLATE MODE icon.

Put the cursor anywhere on the screen and with the RIGHT mouse button, hold
and drag the cursor. Once you let go the screen will have moved in the same
direction and amount in which it was dragged.
c.
Select the SCALE TO FIT icon to reset the view.
2.
a.
Click the RIGHT mouse button anywhere ABOVE an imaginary equator which
goes horizontally through the center of the graphics display window. The graphics
display window ZOOMS OUT.
3.
a.
Click the RIGHT mouse button anywhere BELOW the equator. The graphics
screen ZOOMS IN.
NOTE: Depending on the cursor position, the zoom is less if the cursor is slightly
off center. The further away from the center, the greater the zoom factor. Press the
SCALE TO FIT icon to reset the view.
4.
a.
b.
c.
d.
5.
Place the cursor above and to the left of the cone on the cad model.
Hold down the LEFT and RIGHT mouse buttons together and drag a window
around the cone.
Release the mouse buttons, the view will zoom in on the selected area.
Select the SCALE TO FIT icon.
a.
b.
Click on the ROTATE 2D icon.

Hold down the RIGHT mouse button and drag the cursor on the screen. The part
will pivot about a center location on the screen.
c.
Press the SCALE TO FIT icon.
-97-
Lab 1
6.
a.
b.
Click on the ROTATE 3D icon.

Within the rotate window, you may select 1, 5, 10 or 45 degree increments of
rotation. (5 degrees is the default). Click on the +/- X, +/- Y and +/- Z to rotate
the view.
7.
a.
Once this is done, you may also rotate the view by placing the cursor somewhere on
the screen and holding down the RIGHT mouse button and dragging the cursor
about the screen. The software will rotate the graphics according to the mouse
movement.
8.
a.
b.
To reset the view, select RESET. The view will change to the closest
horizontal/vertical view plane.
Click on CLOSE.
a.
b.
Return to the split screen view, select 2VIEWS from the VIEW ID pull-down list.
Select NO.
9.
Lab 1
-98-
IV.
1.
CHANGING THE DISPLAY COLORS

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
2.
From the Edit Menu, select Graphics Display Window, CAD Elements.
Under the Feature Types portion, be sure that only the surfaces box is selected.
Check the Change Color box, and then click on COLOR. Choose a desired
color for the IGES file. Press OK.
If necessary, move the Edit CAD Elements Window out of the way by placing the
cursor in the Title Bar, and while holding down the LEFT mouse button, drag the
window out of the way.
Place the cursor somewhere in the upper/left portion of the graphics display area and
while holding down the LEFT mouse button, drag the cursor to create a window
around the entire part. This is used to select the desired features.
Once all features have been selected, select APPLY, then OK.
a.
From the Edit menu, select Graphics Display Window, Screen Color.
b.
If you wish to change the background color then within the Background portion
of this screen, select EDIT and choose a screen color.
If you wish you can change the color of the Highlight as well. Using red, which
is the default, is a good universal choice for the highlight. Press APPLY and OK.
c.
-99-
Lab 1
V.
1.
INTRODUCTION TO SETUP OPTIONS

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
From the Edit menu select Preferences, Setup.

The Setup Options window will appear, click on the ID Setup tab.
In the Labels For: pull-down list, select Features.
From the Labeling Method pull-down list select By Type.
Under the Type pull-down list select Circles.
Verify the Show All ID box is checked.
In the Starting Letters text box enter the ID you would like for a Circle (i.e.
CIR or CIRCLE). This determines how the program will label features in future
labs.
In the box next to Starting, verify the number 1 is entered. This initializes the
starting number for measured circles.
Repeat the above steps for the following Types:
Cone
Cylinder
Point
Line
Plane
Once all the changes have been made, click on APPLY.
The following Message window will appear: Changes are going to be applied.
Would you like to continue? Click YES.
When finished entering all of these Types, click Default, YES then OK.
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
From the Edit menu select Preferences, Setup.

Click on the General tab.
Select Automatic file save.
Verify that 1 is entered for Minutes to Save, as shown below.
3.
From the File menu, select Save. Then select Close, or select the toolbar icons to
and Close
the program. By closing the program the layout of the toolbars,
Save
graphic and edit window will be saved as well.
CONGRATULATIONS, THIS LAB IS COMPLETE!
-100-
Lab 1

Lab 2
Probe Qualifications
Purpose: Practice the following PC-DMIS functions:

1.
2.
3.
4.
I.
Creating a new probe file

Defining the Qualification Tool
Calibrating a new probe (Manually)
Adding angles using the Probe Angle Matrix
CREATING A NEW PROBE FILE

1.
From the FILE menu, select New

a. Place the cursor in the Part Name space, and type lab_2.
b. Fill in Drawing Revision or Serial Number (optional).
c. Select Inches.
d. Be sure that CMM1 is selected as the interface.
e. Select OK.
2.
The Probe window will appear on the screen. If the probe window is not displayed,
from the Operation pull down menu, select Calibrate/Edit, Active Probe.
3.
In the Probe Utilities window, type your first name in the Probe File space.
4.
In the probe description section there are two possible scenarios.

a. Scenario 1: The first line will say No probe defined. If this is the case then
select this line, and proceed to step 5.
b. Scenario 2: The first line will already contain the first probe component of the
CMMs current configuration (i.e. PROBEPH10M). If this is the case then the
last line in the description should say Empty Connection #1. Select this line if
it is not already highlighted, and proceed to step 5.
-101-
Lab 2
5.
In order to complete creating a new probe file every component from the end of the
Z rail needs to be defined. It will be necessary to select these components one at a
time. A standard probe configuration consists of a probe head, probe body and
probe stylus. This may vary depending on the probe configuration that is currently
being defined. Any questions on the probe set-up, consult the Instructor.
a. Defining the probe head:
Note: If the first line of the probe description already contains the probe
head as outlined in step 4b above, then proceed to step 5b.
Click the down arrow and select the appropriate probe type from the pull
down menu
Examples of probe heads are PROBEMIP, PROBEPH9 and
PROBEPH10M.
b. Defining the adaptor, if present.
Before selecting this component, verify that empty connection #1 is
highlighted.
Click the down arrow and select the appropriate adaptor type from the pull
down menu.
An example of a PAA1 adaptor in the list would be
CONVERT30MM_TO_M8THRD.
c. Defining the probe body, if present.
highlighted.
Click the down arrow and select the appropriate probe body type from the
pull down menu.
Examples of probe bodies are PROBETP2, PROBE_TP20 and
PROBE_TP200 etc.
d. Defining the probe stylus.
highlighted.
Click the down arrow and select the appropriate probe stylus from the pull
down menu.
Examples of probe styli are TIP2BY20MM and TIP3BY20MM.
6.
Once the probe stylus has been selected the empty connection #1 will no longer
appear. Also, a tip should appear in the active tip list above (i.e. T1A0B0). The
creation of this probe file should now be complete.
-102-
Lab 2
II.
DEFINING THE TOOL AND CALIBRATING A NEW PROBE

1.
Once all probing components have been defined, select the ADD ANGLES
button.
2.
Under Individual Angle Data, type 90 in the a angle space and -90 in
the b angle space. Click the ADD ANGLE button and the new angle will
appear in the list. Select OK.
3.
Click the MEASURE button.
4.
Select Manual and type 5 in the number of hits space. Keep the default
values for Move and Touch Speed and Prehit/ Retract.
5.
Under the Type of Operation section select Calibrate Tips.
6.
Change the Calibration Mode to Default Mode.
7.
Click the ADD TOOL button.
8.
Type your name in the Tool ID space.
9.
Select Sphere from the Tool Type pull down list.
10.
Enter the Shank Vectors (Refer to the class lecture). The TAB key on the
keyboard moves the cursor from box to box.
11.
Enter the diameter of the sphere (identified on the tool). Select OK.
12.
Make sure that the tool defined, your name, is selected in the List of Available
Tools.
13.
Select the MEASURE button. Click YES for OK to measure all probe tips.
Select YES to Has the qualification tool been moved? Select OK when
the next window appears.
-103-
Lab 2
14.
Take five (5) probe hits on the qualification sphere in the following order:
a. Take the first hit normal to the spheres surface with the probe approaching
parallel to the probe direction, i.e. when the probe is in the 0,0 angular position,
the first hit is taken at the north pole of the sphere.
b. The remaining four (4) probe hits should be taken at the equator
(0 degrees) of the sphere.
NOTE: View the # of hits space on the lower right message bar to ensure that
the hits are being recorded. If you need to delete the previous hit, strike the ALT MINUS (-) key combination on the keyboard.
Select the END key on the keyboard (or the Continue button from the Execution
window) when all probe hits are completed.
NOTE: If there is a manual probe head on the CMM, the software will now
prompt you to rotate the probe head to a particular attitude, based on a tip angle that
was created in Step 2. If there is a DCC probe head on the CMM, the software will
display a message OK to rotate. At this time be sure that the probe is safe to
rotate automatically before proceeding. Follow the prompt and qualify the new
probe attitude as in the step above.
15.
Select the Results button. Note the results in the measured row. Observe the
Diameter and Standard Deviation results. Select Print, and then select OK.
-104-
Lab 2
III.
ADDING ANGLES USING THE PROBE ANGLE MATRIX

1.
From the Probe Utilities window, select ADD ANGLES.
2.
From the Probe Angle Matrix select the following angles:

A90B0, A90B90, A90B180
3.
When selecting the angles from the matrix, notice that the angles change in the
dialog box below the Clear button. This will display the angle the mouse arrow is
pointing to in the matrix. Once an angle has been selected, the box turns red; the
angle is added to the list, and the graphic of the probe in the utilities window
changes to display the selected orientation. Once all angles have been selected from
the matrix, select OK.
4.
MOVE THE PROBE AWAY FROM ANY OBSTRUCTIONS.
5.
Select the A90B0 tip from the list. While holding the CTRL key, select the
A90B90 tip, then while holding CTRL select the A90B180 tip.
6.
Select MEASURE. From the Measure screen, verify all values and that the
proper Tool is selected. Select MEASURE. Select NO to Has the qualification
tool been moved?
-105-
Lab 2
7.
The software will now prompt you to rotate the probe head to a particular attitude,
based on a tip angle that was created above.
NOTE: If there is a manual probe head on the CMM, the software will now
prompt you to rotate the probe head to a particular attitude, based on a tip angle that
was created in Step 2. If there is a DCC probe head on the CMM, the software will
display a message OK to rotate. At this time be sure that the probe is safe to
rotate automatically before proceeding. Follow the prompt and qualify the new
probe attitude as done previously.
NOTE: Keep in mind that the North Pole is the Pierce point of the sphere,
when it approaches it normal to the surface. Therefore, the North Pole will be
different for each probe attitude.
After completion, the Probe Utilities window will appear.
8.
Click the RESULTS button and verify that three sets of data are present. Observe
the Diameter and Standard Deviation results. Select Print then OK.
9.
Select the OK button. The OK button saves the qualification information to the
probe file.
10.
From the File menu, select Save. Then select Quit, or select the toolbar
icons to Save
and Quit
the program.
-106-
Lab 2
PC-DMIS PRO Manual

Lab 3
Manual Alignments of the Demo Block
Purpose: Familiarize the students with the following PC-DMIS techniques:

1. Introducing operator comments
2. Measuring features with Feature Recognition
3. Aligning the Demo Block with the Step Method:
Plane, Line and Point
4. Aligning the Demo Block with Auto align
Plane, Line and Point
5. Creating a 3 Plane alignment
6. Offsetting the origin in an alignment using 2 holes
7. Rotating the axes by an angle in an alignment using 2 offset holes
8. Recalling an alignment
I.
ALIGNING WITH THE STEP METHOD PLANE, LINE AND POINT

1.
From the File Menu, create a New file called lab_3.
2.
In the Probe Utilities window, select the Probe File you created (your first
name).
3.
Verify the Probe Description matches the probe installed on the machine and
select OK.
4.
From the Insert menu, select Report Command, Comment.
5.
Highlight the text Please Edit Comment Text and type in Align
demo block such that Datum B is along the x-axis.
6.
Select OPERATOR and click OK.
7.
Verify that Datum B of the demo block is along the x-axis by the referencing
drawings. Secure the Demo Block to the table.
-107-
Lab 3
8.
Select T1A0B0 from the Probe Tips pull down list on the toolbar.
This will select the tip which has an A & B angle of 0 (pointing down). A message
will appear to ask if it is OK to rotate Be sure that the probe is clear of all
obstructions before clicking Yes.
9.
From the Workplane pull-down menu on the toolbar, verify that the ZPLUS
workplane is selected. If it is not, select it now. (It is important that the correct
workplane is selected prior to measuring 2D features such as a circle or 2D line.)
10.
Take at least four (4) manual hits spread out across Datum A (top of the demo
block, reference the drawings).
Verify that the correct number of hits have been recorded by checking the box
in the bottom, right hand corner of the display screen, then select the END key on
the keyboard or the Done button on the Jog Box.
NOTE: If a hit is taken incorrectly, it can be deleted by striking the
MINUS (-) key on the keyboard or the Alt (-) key combination.
11.
From the graphics display window, verify that a plane was created.
12.
From the Insert menu, select Alignment, New. In the bottom left box in the
window,
a. Highlight Plane1
b. From the pull down list located next to the LEVEL button, select ZPLUS (if
it is not already set to ZPLUS).
c. Select the LEVEL button
d. Notice a new line of text appears in the box at the top corresponding
to the function just entered.
e. Select OK. The part has now been leveled to the measured plane. This is good
measuring practice before measuring 2-D features.
-108-
Lab 3
13.
Take at least two (2) manual hits along Datum B (front surface), Refer to the
supplied drawings. Take these hits from left to right (+X direction). Note: The
order in which you take the hits will determine the direction, or vector, of the line.
NOTE: Hits must always be taken NORMAL to the surface.
Verify two (2) hits recorded and strike the END key or the Done button on the
Jog Box.
14.
Take at least two (2) manual hits along Datum C (lower left outermost side of
part, Refer to the supplied drawings). Verify the correct number of hits recorded
and strike the END key or Done button.
15.
From the Constructed Features toolbar, select the Construct Point icon.
Select the 2 measured lines from the feature list. Select CREATE. This will
construct an intersection point. Select the CLOSE button to close the window.
16.
Select the View Setup icon.

a. Select the 1st red/blue icon.
b. In Views, select Z+ for Blue View and Y-for Red View.
c. Select APPLY and OK.
d. Select the Scale to Fit icon.
17.
Select the Create Views icon, type a name and click OK.
NOTE: If you would like this view to be recalled at this point in the program when
executed, you must select the view from the Views ID pull-down list
and select Yes to insert the viewset command in the part program. Just
saving the view will not recall the view in the part program during
execution.
18.
Referring to the display screen, there should be two views displayed, the top view
above and the front view below.
19.
From the Insert menu, select Alignment, New.
20.
In the bottom left box in the window,

a. Highlight Plane1
b. From the pull down menu located next to the LEVEL button, select ZPLUS
(if it is not already set to ZPLUS).
d. Notice a new line of text appears in the box at the top corresponding
to the function just entered.
21.
Highlight Line1.
a. Verify that the Rotate to is set to XPLUS.
b. In the About space, select ZPLUS.
c. Select ROTATE.
-109-
Lab 3
22.
Highlight Point1.
a. In the ORIGIN check boxes, select X & Y.
b. Verify that the Offset Distance is blank.
c. Select ORIGIN. Note: We are assigning, or translating, Point1
to be X = 0 & Y = 0.
23.
Highlight Plane1.
a. In the ORIGIN check boxes, select Z (only).
b. Click the ORIGIN button.
24.
Referring to the display screen, notice the axes origin is level with Plane1 and
aligned with Point1.
NOTE: To verify the alignment, move the probe to the location in which the origin
should be (corner). Once positioned, look at the counter display on the right of
the lower toolbar. Verify that X, Y, and Z are close to 0. To further verify the
axes, move the probe in a positive X direction and view the counters. Repeat this
for Y and Z.
Once satisfied with the alignment, select OK.
II.
ALIGNING WITH AUTO ALIGN PLANE, LINE AND POINT

1.
2.
Change the name of this alignment to ALN_ABC. To do this, type the name in the
ID field at the top of the window and press the tab key.
3.
In the lower left text box of this window, select Plane1. A (1) will appear next to
the text. Select Line1 and Point1 in that order. A (2) and (3) will appear next
to each feature name.
4.
Click the AUTO ALIGN button.
5.
Look at the bottom view on the screen and notice that the axes origin is level with
Point1. This graphic illustrates that Z is set to 0 at Point1 instead of at Plane1. In
order to change this, select the last line in the top text window (ex. ZPLUS
translated to POINT ID = POINT1). Click on Point1 in the lower text window,
which is now highlighted, to un-select. Select Plane1 from the same window and
select Origin. Notice that the last line in the top text window now includes Plane1,
and the graphic reflects this change as well. Notice the axes origin is level in Z with
Plane1 and aligned in X and Y with Point1. Select OK.
NOTE: Verify the alignment by moving the probe to the location in which the
origin should be (corner). Once positioned, look at the counter as done in the
previous lab to verify that X, Y, and Z are close to 0.
-110-
Lab 3
III.
CREATING A 3 PLANE ALIGNMENT

1.
Using the jog box, measure Datum B as a plane with 4 points.
2.
Using the jog box, measure Datum C as a plane with 4 points.
3.
4.

a. Select Datum A (First plane measured)
b. From the pull down menu located next to the LEVEL button, select
ZPLUS (if it is not already set to ZPLUS).
5.
Highlight the Datum B plane (Second plane measured).

a. Verify that the Rotate to is set to YMINUS.
b. In the About space, select ZPLUS.
c. Select ROTATE.
6.
Highlight the Datum C plane (Third plane measured).

a. In the ORIGIN check boxes, select X.
c. Select ORIGIN. Note: We are assigning, or translating, Plane3
to be the x origin which is where X will be equal to 0.
7.
Highlight the Datum B plane (Plane2).

a. In the ORIGIN check boxes, select Y.
to be the Y origin which is where Y will be equal to 0.
8.
Highlight the Datum A plane (Plane1).

a. In the ORIGIN check boxes, select Z.
to be the Z origin which is where Z will be equal to 0.
d. Select OK.
Lab 3
-111-
IV.
OFFSETTING THE ORIGIN IN AN ALIGNMENT USING 2 HOLES

1.
Using the jog box, take 4 hits inside Hole B, Refer to the supplied drawings.
2.
Using the jog box, take 4 hits inside Hole F.
3.
4.

a. Highlight Plane1.
b. Verify the axis next to the LEVEL button, is set correctly.
c. Select the LEVEL button.
5.
Highlight Hole B & Hole F (CIRCLE 1 and CIRCLE2).

a. Verify the Rotate to, and the About fields are correct.
b. Select ROTATE.
c. This established the Rotation, or timing, with the 2 measured holes.
6.
Highlight Hole B.
a. Verify the Offset Distance is blank.
b. Select ORIGIN. This established X and Y as zero in Hole B.
7.
Highlight Plane1.
b. Click the ORIGIN button and select OK.
8.
In this step the goal is to offset the origin to match the print in which Datums A; B
and C intersect.
a. From the Insert menu, select Alignment, New.
b. Select the X (only) box located near the Origin button.
c. Enter the THEORETICAL value necessary to offset the origin in the X
direction. Refer to the print for the value, and place it in the Offset Distance
box.
d. Drag the Alignment window out of the way, in order to be able to see the
display of the Axes on the main screen.
e. Select Origin.
f. Repeat steps b - e for the Y axis.
g. Is it necessary to offset the Z axis?
h. Select OK.
Note: Watch the tri-hedron in the graphic display window as you create this
alignment. This will help guide you as the alignment changes are made. Notice the
axis origin has moved to the THEORETICAL intersection of Datum A, B and C.
-112-
Lab 3
V.
VI.
ROTATING THE AXES BY AN ANGLE USING 2 OFFSET HOLES

1.
Using the jog box, measure hole E with 4 points.
2.
3.

4.
Highlight Hole B & Hole E (CIRCLE 1 and CIRCLE3).

b. Select ROTATE.
5.
Highlight Hole B.
6.
Highlight Plane1.
7.
In this step the goal is to offset the alignment by an angle so the axes are parallel to
datum B. Then the origin will be offset to where Datums A, B and C intersect.
a. From the Insert menu, select Alignment, New
b. Drag the Alignment window out of the way, in order to be able to see the
display of the Axes on the main screen.
c. In the Offset Angle box next to the ROTATE button, type in 15.928.
Should this be a Positive or Negative number?
d. Verify that the Rotate to box has XPLUS selected and the About box
below that has ZPLUS selected.
e. Click the ROTATE button. Note the graphic of the axes has rotated.
f. If the axes are now parallel to datum B, finish offsetting the origin to the
intersection of Datums A, B and C as done in section IV step 8.
g. Click OK.
RECALLING AN ALIGNMENT
1.
From the Alignment pull down list (on the toolbar) select the alignment that was
created in Section II using Auto Align (should be named ALN_ABC). This will
recall the alignment completed in this lab that used auto align to establish the
alignment where the measured Datum A, B and C intersect. Reference the Edit
Window to view this Recall command in the program.
2.
Use the toolbar icons to Save
and Quit
the program.

-113-
Lab 3

Lab 4
Manual Alignment of the Demo Block

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
I.
Manual alignment of the Demo Block

Measuring using Feature Recognition
Introduction to Dimensioning
Printing the report
Executing the program
MANUAL ALIGNMENT OF THE DEMO BLOCK

1.
Create a New file called lab_4.
2.
name).
3.
Verify the Probe Description matches the probe installed on the machine and
select OK.
4.
Insert an OPERATOR comment that says Align demo block such that Datum
B is along the x-axis.
5.
6.
Select tip T1A0B0 from the drop down list on the toolbar.
7.
Take at least 4 hits spread out across Datum A (top of the demo block, reference
the drawings) to measure this feature as a plane.
-114-
Lab 4
8.
window,
a. Highlight Plane1
b. Select the LEVEL button
c. Select OK. The part has now been leveled to the measured plane.
9.
Take 4 hits inside Hole B, Refer to the supplied drawings. Press DONE, or End.
10.
Take 4 hits inside Hole F. Press DONE, or End.
11.
Change the view layout and create a view, as done in previous labs.
12.
13.

14.
Highlight Hole B & Hole F (CIRCLE 1 and CIRCLE2).

b. Select ROTATE.
15.
Highlight Hole B.
16.
Highlight Plane1.
17.
In this step the goal is to offset the origin to match the print in which Datums A; B;
& C intersect.
a. From the Insert menu, select Alignment, New.
b. Change the name of this alignment to M_ALN_ABC. To do this, type the name
in the ID field at the top of the window and press the tab key.
c. Enter the THEORETICAL values necessary to offset the origin from the center
of Hole B, to the corner where Datums A; B; & C intersect (Refer to the
attached print).
d. Watch the graphic axes display as the alignment is being constructed.
e. Once satisfied, select OK.
origin should be (corner). Once positioned, look at the counter to verify that X, Y,
and Z are close to 0.
-115-
Lab 4
II.
III.
MEASURING USING FEATURE RECOGNITION

1.
Measure Hole A and C with four (4) hits and hitting the END key on the keyboard
or DONE on the Jog box after each hole.
2.
Measure hole D as a cylinder. With the jog box, take 4 hits inside hole D
approximately halfway down the cylinder (Be sure that it is not too deep as to hit
the shank of the tip). Take 4 hits near the top of the hole, and then strike the END
key on the keyboard or DONE on the JOG BOX
INTRODUCTION TO DIMENSIONING
1.
From the Dimension toolbar, select the Location icon.
2.
In the text box on the left, highlight all the measured holes and cylinders by clicking
once on each name. This can also be accomplished by clicking on the actual feature
in the display window.
In the Axes selection box, select X, Y and D.
4.
In the Tolerances: sections have Axes set to All. Enter a value of 0.01 for
both Plus and Minus. Select CREATE, then CLOSE.
5.
Reference the Edit Window and view the results of the dimensioning. Type in the
correct Nominals for all of the holes and cylinders. Refer to the supplied drawings
for the nominals.
NOTE: If you change the Nominals you may be asked the question Carry
nominals back to the feature? Select No.
IV.
PRINTING THE REPORT

1.
From the File menu, select Printing, Edit Window Print Setup. Select
Printer and select OK.
2.
From the Edit menu, select Preferences, Edit Window Layout.

a. Select the Report tab.
b. Select Show Header/Footer.
c. Under the Dimensions section select the Show checkbox and be sure the
All radio button is selected.
d. Click Apply and Close the window.
-116-
Lab 4
V.
EXECUTING THE PROGRAM

1.
From the toolbar, select the Clear Marked icon.
2.
Now select the Mark All icon.
3.
A window will appear with the message: OK to mark manual

alignment features? Click on YES.
4.
From the View menu, select Status Window. This will bring up a large
window that will display messages during the execution of the program. These
messages will be easier to see as opposed to reading from the execution window.
5.
Select the Execute icon. A message window will appear, click OK.
6.
You are now running the part program which you created. PC-DMIS will
prompt you to take hits with the probe. The Execution Mode Options
window will appear, follow the prompts under the Machine Commands.
The first prompt will be Take hit 1 of 4 on Plane ID=Plane1 The
Probe will also appear on the screen to graphically illustrate the location of the
points.
7.
Take four hits on the Plane and select the Continue button, or Done on the jog box.
8.
Continue following the PC-DMIS prompts to complete the program.
9.
From the toolbar, Save
and Quit
the program.
-117-
Lab 4

Lab 5
Measuring using AUTO Features

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
I.
PART SETUP
1.
II.
Part setup
Measuring with AUTO Features
Dimensioning & Printing the report
Fixture the Demo Block on the table with Datum A facing in the positive X
direction and Datum B face down. Be sure to place part on risers, in order to safely
measure all features in this exercise.

1.
Create a New file called lab_5.
2.
name).
a. Verify the Probe Description matches the probe installed on the machine.
b. Verify the probe angles necessary to measure the features in this lab are included
in the probe file. If necessary, add and calibrate the necessary angles.
3.
From the Edit menu select Preferences - Setup

a. Click on the GENERAL tab.
b. In the list click on AUTOMATIC FILE SAVE and type 1 in Minutes to
Save. Click OK.
-118-
Lab 5
4.
Insert an OPERATOR comment that says Align demo block such that Datum
A is facing in the positive X direction, and Datum B is face down.
5.
Select tip T1A90B-90 from the drop down list on the toolbar.
6.
Take at least 4 hits spread out across Datum A (reference the drawings) to
measure this feature as a plane.
7.
window,
a. Highlight Plane1
b. Before continuing be sure to consider what direction to level the axis to. Should
it be Z+ or X+ based on the current part orientation? Once the decision has been
made regarding the direction, select the appropriate axis from the pull down list
and select the LEVEL button
c. Select OK. The part has now been leveled to the measured plane.
8.
Be sure to have the correct work plane selected from the toolbar to measure holes B
and F properly.
9.
Take 4 hits inside Hole B, Refer to the supplied drawings.
10.
Take 4 hits inside Hole F.
11.
Change the format of the view and create it, as done in previous labs.
12.

a. Select Plane1. Verify the axis next to the LEVEL button, is set correctly and
press the LEVEL button.
b. Select Hole B & Hole F (CIRCLE1 & CIRCLE2) to ROTATE to. Before
completing the rotation step of the alignment, be sure to decide which direction
to Rotate to. Also, be sure that the rotation is About the same axis as the
level. Once these decisions have been made regarding the direction, select the
appropriate axis from the pull down list and press the ROTATE button.
c. Use Hole B (CIRCLE1) and Plane1as the ORIGIN. Before completing the
origin step of the alignment be sure to consider which axis and feature to choose
when setting the X, Y and Z origin based on the current part orientation. Once
these decisions have been made, select the appropriate feature from the list, axis
box and press the ORIGIN button.
d. Once satisfied the alignment is complete, select OK.
-119-
Lab 5
13.
III.
Go back to the Alignment screen to insert a new alignment.

a. Change the name of the alignment to ALN_ABC.
b. Offset the origin to match the print in which Datums A; B; & C intersect.
1. Enter the THEORETICAL values necessary to offset the origin from the
center of Hole B, to where Datums A; B; & C intersect (Refer to the
attached print).
2. Once satisfied, select OK.
MEASURING WITH AUTO FEATURES

1.
From the Auto Features toolbar select the Auto Circle icon.
.
a. The Auto Feature screen will open with the Circle screen active.
b. To measure an auto circle without nominal data, it will be necessary to measure
3 points on the top surface of the demo block. Then the next step will be to take
3 points in the hole that is to be measured.
1. Take 3 points on the Datum A surface of the block, approximately .2 away
from hole A (Refer to the attached image for location of points).
2. As these points are being taken notice the dialog box in the lower left corner
of the MAIN display. This display will provide helpful instructions to
complete the steps necessary to measure this hole using Auto Circle.
3. Take 3 hits inside of hole A.
4. Do NOT hit the Done button at this time.
c. After all the hits are taken; view the information being displayed in the auto
circle screen. PC-DMIS has calculated the information relating to the hole. The
Normal Vector, which is the vector (direction) of the surface, the Location (X,
Y, Z), and the Diameter should be calculated. Verify the Normal Vector is
correct. Verify that the Starting & Ending Angle are both set to 0. Change
them if necessary.
d. Enter .2 for the Depth.
e. Select 0 for Initial and 0 for Perm. Also enter 0 for the Spacer.
f. Change the ID to correspond with the hole to be measured (i.e. A).
g. Be sure to have the Measure box UN- checked.
h. Select Create.
i Repeat the above steps for Holes: G; H; & K.
-120-
Lab 5
2.
From the Auto Feature screen,

a. Select Cylinder from the drop down list.
b. To measure an auto cylinder without nominal data, it will be necessary to
measure 3 points on the top surface of the demo block. Then the next step will
be to take 3 points in the cylinder that is to be measured. This procedure is very
similar to measuring an Auto Circle.
from cylinder I.
complete the steps necessary to measure this hole using Auto Cylinder.
3. Take 3 hits inside of cylinder I.
cylinder screen. PC-DMIS has calculated the information relating to the
cylinder. The Normal Vector, which is the vector (direction) of the surface, the
Location (X, Y, Z), and the Diameter should be calculated. Verify the Normal
Vector is correct. Verify that the Starting & Ending Angle are both set to
0. Change them if necessary.
d. Enter .1 for the Depth, .5 for the Height, and enter 3 for the # Rows.
e. Enter 4 for the # Hits.
f. Select 3 for Initial and 3 for Perm. Also enter .1 for the Spacer.
g. Change the ID to correspond with the cylinder to be measured.
h. Be sure to have the Measure box UN checked and select Create.
NOTE: Having entered sample hits in this screen, PC-DMIS will prompt you to
take these Sample Points before you measure the cylinder during the execution
of the program. These points would be helpful when measuring flexible or
varying material.
i. Repeat the above steps for cylinder J.
-121-
Lab 5
3.
From the Auto Feature screen,

a. Select Vector Point from the drop down list.
b. To measure an auto vector point without nominal data, it will be necessary to
measure 4 points on the surface of the demo block.
1. Take 4 points on the Datum A surface of the block (Refer to the attached
image for location of point PT_HEIGHT).
2. As these points are being taken notice the dialog box in the lower left
corner of the MAIN display. This display will provide helpful instructions
to complete the steps necessary to measure this point using Auto Vector
Point.
vector point screen. PC-DMIS has calculated the information relating to the
point. The Normal Vector, which is the vector (direction) of the surface, and
the Location (X, Y, and Z) should be calculated.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
IV.
NOTE: If a message appears Take more hits . verify that the Normal
Vector is correct and proceed to the next step.
Be sure to have the Measure box UN - checked.
Change the ID to PT_HEIGHT for the point to be measured.
Select Create.
Repeat the previous steps to measure another Vector Point called PT_WIDTH
(Refer to the attached image for location of point PT_WIDTH).
NOTE: Notice that this point is on the surface opposite of Datum B. Verify
the Normal Vector is correct.
Close the Auto Feature window.
DIMENSIONING
1.
2.
In the text box on the left, highlight all the measured circles and cylinders listed.
3.
From the Axes section, select Y, Z and D.
4.
In the Tolerances section, have Axes set to All. Enter a value of +/- 0.01
and select CREATE.
5.
The vector point PT_HEIGHT was measured to dimension the height of the block.
Therefore, highlight PT_HEIGHT, select the appropriate axis, and then select
CREATE.
6.
The vector point PT_WIDTH was measured to dimension the width of the block.
Therefore, highlight PT_WIDTH. Select the appropriate axis, and then select
CREATE and CLOSE.
-122-
Lab 5
7.
Go to the Edit Window. View the results of the dimensioning in the Edit
Window. Type in the correct Nominals for all dimensions.
8.
V.
VI.
While in the Edit Window, change the Tolerance for the first dimensioned
Diameter. Change this to +/- .005. Say Yes to the message Carry forward to
like tolerances. The above action will apply the +/- .005 tolerance to all the
remaining D axes in the program.
PRINTING THE REPORT

1.
2.

d. Click Apply and OK.
3.
From the toolbar, Save the program.

.
1.
From the toolbar, select the Clear Marked icon.
2.
3.
A window will appear with the message: OK to mark manual

alignment features? Click on NO.
NOTE: Due to the choice that was made in this step, PC-DMIS will not prompt
you to measure the features used in the manual alignment. We are also
assuming the part has not been moved.
4.
Select the Execute icon. A message window will appear, click OK.
5.
Save and quit the program.
CONGRATULATIONS THIS LAB IS COMPLETE!
-123-
Lab 5
AUTO FEATURE GRAPHICAL AIDS

A
HOLE_A
PT HEIGHT
A
C
2
1
3
B
PT_WIDTH
2
1
-124-
Lab 5

Lab 6
Alignment and Measurement of the Demo Block

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
I.
PART SETUP
1.
II.
Part setup
Measuring features with AUTO Features
Printing the report to the printer and to a file
Fixture the Demo Block on the table with Datum A facing in the positive Z
direction, and Datum B parallel to the X-axis.
1.
Create a new file called lab_6. Select the Probe file.
2.
Put an operator comment that says Align demo block such that Datum B is along
the CMMs X-axis.
3.
Go to the view setup and split the screen as done in previous labs.
4.
Before measuring any features, be sure to select the proper probe tip from the
toolbar.
5.
Using the CMM, measure Datum A, Datum B, and Datum C as done in previous
labs.
6.
Construct an intersection point as done in previous labs.
7.
Insert an alignment to align the part to the position on the part where Datums A, B
and C intersect, as done in previous labs.
8.
From the Edit menu, select Preferences, Setup.

a. Select the General tab.
b. Click on AUTO FILE SAVE and type 5 in Minutes to Save. Select OK.
-125-
Lab 6
III.
MEASURING FEATURES WITH AUTO FEATURES

1.
..
a. The Auto Features screen will open with the Circle screen active.
3 points on the top surface of the demo block. Then the next step will be to take
3 points in the hole that is to be measured.
from hole A.
3. Take 3 hits inside of hole A.
correct. Verify that the Starting & Ending Angle are both set to 0. Change
them if necessary.
d. Enter .2 for the Depth.
f. Change the ID to correspond with the hole to be measured (i.e. A).
g. Be sure to have the Measure box UN - checked, then click CREATE.
h. Repeat the above steps for holes E, F, G, H, and I.
i. Click the CLOSE button, to close Auto Features.
2.
From the Construct toolbar, select the Circle icon.

a. In the Construct window, select holes G, H and I from the list of features.
These circles will now be highlighted.
b. Click on the ID = box and enter a name for the constructed circle.
c. Select Best Fit and click Create.
3.
Add dimensions X, Y, and D with tolerances = +/- 0.010 for all measured holes
and the constructed bolt circle.
4.
From the Dimension toolbar select the Distance icon.

a. In the DIM ID # box, enter DIST_AE.
b. Select Hole A and Hole E.
c. Select mode to 2 Dimensional
d. Enter .005 for the Plus and Minus Tolerances
e. Click CREATE.
-126-
Lab 6
5.
From the Auto Features toolbar, select the Auto Vector Point icon.
a. Verify the Vector Point screen is active.
b. To measure an auto vector point without nominal data, it will be necessary to
measure 4 points on the surface of the demo block.
1. Take 4 points on the Datum B surface of the block.
2. As these points are being taken notice the dialog box in the lower left
corner of the MAIN display. This display will provide helpful instructions
to complete the steps necessary to measure this point using Auto Vector
Point.
vector point screen. PC-DMIS has calculated the information relating to the
point. The Normal Vector, which is the vector (direction) of the surface, and
the Location (X, Y, and Z) should be calculated.
d.
e.
f.
g.
NOTE: If a message appears Take more hits . verify that the Normal
Vector is correct and proceed to the next step.
Be sure to have the Measure box UN - checked.
Name this feature DATBPT, and select CREATE.
Repeat the previous steps to measure another Vector Point on the Datum C
surface. Therefore, repeat the same steps however use the Datum C surface and
name it DATCPT.
Close the Auto Feature window.
-127-
Lab 6
IV.
V.
PRINTING THE REPORT TO THE PRINTER AND TO A FILE

1.
From the File menu, select Printing, Edit Window Print Setup.
a. Select the File box. Be sure that Auto is selected and the format is
Portable Document Format (.PDF). Click on the browse button to view
where this file will be saved.
b. Select the Printer box and select OK.
2.

EXUCUTING THE PROGRAM

1.
From the toolbar, select the Clear Marked then Mark All icon.
2.
Say NO to marking the manual alignment.
3.
Execute the program.
4.
5.
After the program is executed go to windows explorer and locate the electronic
copy for the inspection report that was saved in the previous section. This file can
be opened using Adobe Acrobat Reader.
-128-
Lab 6
Demo Block
Part Prints
-129-
-130-
-131-
Toolbar Key
-132-
Toolbar Key
Draw
Surfaces
Save Viewset
Curves Translate
Text Box Mode
Mode Mode
3D Rotate
Graphics Modes
View Setup
Create Viewset
Surface Mode
Scale to Fit
Current Alignment
Program Mode
2D Rotate
RePaint
Assembly
Current Probe Tip

Settings
Current Probe File
Current View
Clear Marked
Current Work Plane
Next
Full Report
Paste with
Bookmark Mode
Remove all
Copy Pattern
Summary
Breakpoint
Mode
Redo
DMIS Mode
Mark
Edit
Window
Execute
Paste
Mark All
Command
Toggle
Cut
Mode
Bookmark
Insert/Remove
Last Execution
Clear All
Breakpoint
Report Mode
Bookmark
-133-
Undo
Print
Toolbar Key
Angle Between
True Position
Line
Coaxiality Perpendicularity Profile
Symmetry
Straightness
Runout
Dimension
Location
Roundness Parallelism
Surface Angularity
Flatness
Concentricity
Profile
Distance
Key In
Generic
Circle Slot Cylinder Sphere
Feature Set
Line
Constructed
Features
Point
Cone
Plane Ellipse Curve
Angle point
Surface Point
Gauss
Surface Filter
Square Slot
High Point
Circle
Cylinder Sphere
Line
Notch
Auto
Features
Vector Point
Edge Point
Plane
Corner Point
Characteristic
Point
Round Slot
Ellipse
Gap
Slot
-134-
Cone Guess
Toolbar Key
Quit
Save As
Open
File Operations
New
Close
Save
Summary
Report
Maximize Edit Window
Window Layout
Hide Edit Window
Program
Save Window Layout
DCC Mode
Probe Mode
Manual Mode
-135-
Saved
Layout
Toolbar Key
Cone
Circle
Guess
Line
Measured
Features
Point
Cylinder
Plane
Sphere
Probe
Wizard
Iterative
Alignment
CAD
Import
Add-Ins
321
Alignment
Dmis-out
Multi
Execute
Database
Wizard
Customize
Right Click Mode
Virtual
Keyboard
Touch
Screen Mode
Virtual Keyboard
Left Click Mode
Record
Arm 1 Active
Execute on Arm 1
Macro
Play/Record
Active Arms
Play
Execute on Arm 2
Arm 2 Active
-136-
Stop
Bonus
Lab Exercises
-137-

Bonus Lab
Using the Quick Start Menu
Purpose: Familiarize the students with the following PC-DMIS techniques using the Quick start
Menu:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
I.
Calibrating the probe using the Quick Start menu

Manual Alignment using a Quick Start procedure
Manual alignment using the Quick Start Alignment icons
Measuring and Dimensioning features using the Quick Start menu
Printing the report
CALIBRATING THE PROBE USING THE QUICK START MENU

1.
Create a New file called BonusLab_QuickStart in Inches.
2.
In the Probe Utilities window, select a Probe File. Verify the Probe
Description matches the probe installed on the machine or create the appropriate
probe file, and select OK.
3.
Before continuing, enable the Quick Start toolbar. This can be accomplished in
two ways:
1) From the View menu, select Toolbars. Select Quick Start.
2) Using the mouse, right click on the toolbar area of the display screen. This will
bring up a right click menu. Select the Quick Start toolbar.
-138-
4.
From the Quick start menu, select the top icon, which may be one of the following:
5.
Select the Calibrate/Edit icon.
6.
Select the Calibrate Probe icon from the Quick start menu.
7.
From the Probe Utilities screen, select and calibrate the A0B0 tip.
8.
9.
Select tip T1A0B0 from the drop down list on the toolbar.
10.
Insert an operator comment explaining part setup.
-139-
II.
CREATING A MANUAL ALIGNMENT USING A PROCEDURE

1.
Select the top icon to bring up the main menu of choices in the Quick start menu
(should be Calibrate/edit).
2.
From the menu of choices select the Align icon.
3.
Select the Proc 4 icon.
NOTE: This procedure will prompt you to measure a plane and two lines. PCDMIS
will use these features to construct a part alignment. Also, the dialog box in
this screen and the lower left corner of the display screen will walk you
thru this routine.
a. Take at least 4 hits spread out across Datum A (top of the demo block,
reference the drawings) to measure this feature as a plane.
b. Once the points have been taken, press the Next button.
NOTE: Do NOT press the End key or the Done button on the jog box after taking
measurements during a routine such as this. Use the Next or Finish button
to proceed from step to step in the routine.
c. Measure Datum B as a line using 2 points from left to right. Once the
measurement is complete, press the Next button.
d. Measure Datum C as a line using 2 points. Once the measurement is complete,
press the Finish button. Select Close.
e. Reference the Edit Window to view the commands PCDMIS entered into the
program from the routine just completed. Notice the features and the alignment
have been added to the program.
origin should be (corner). Once positioned, look at the counters to verify
that X, Y, and Z are close to 0.
-140-
III.
MANUAL ALIGNMENT USING THE ALIGNMENT ICONS
1.
Select the top icon to bring up the main menu of choices in the Quick start menu.
2.
Select the Measure icon.
3.
Select the Plane icon from the list of choices.

a. Take 4 hits on Datum A.
b. Select the Level and Translate icons from the screen.
c. Select the Finish button.
NOTE: The Alignment Utilities window will open. The Level and Translate
command referencing the plane should appear in the dialog box at the top
of this screen.
d. Select the OK button. The alignment is now level to the plane and Z is zero at
the location of Datum A.
4.
From the drop down list in the quick start screen, select Line.
NOTE: The graphic should change to display a line.
a. Take 2 hits on Datum B from left to right.
b. Select the Rotate icon.
c. Select the Finish button.
NOTE: The Alignment Utilities window will open. The Rotate command
referencing the line should appear in the dialog box at the top of this
screen.
d. Select the OK button.
5.
From the drop down list in the quick start screen, select Circle.
a. Take 4 hits in Hole B to measure it as a circle.
b. Select the Translate icon,
then the Finish Button.
NOTE: The Alignment Utilities window will open. The Translate commands
referencing the circle should appear in the dialog box at the top of this
screen. This will set X and Y to zero in the hole.
c. Select the OK button.
-141-
6.
Select the Close button from the quick start screen. Look in the edit window to
view the features and alignment commands that were just added from the previous
steps.
7.
Verify the alignment is located at the center of Hole B and is level with the plane.
8.
Insert a new alignment to offset the origin to match the print, in which Datums A;
B; & C intersect,
a. Enter the THEORETICAL values necessary to offset the origin from the center
of Hole B, to the corner where Datums A; B; & C intersect (Refer to the
attached print).
b. Watch the graphic axes display as the alignment is being constructed.
c. Once satisfied, select OK.
origin should be (corner). Once positioned, look at the counter to verify that X, Y,
and Z are close to 0.
IV.
MEASURING AND DIMENSIONING FEATURES

1.
From the Measure choices in the quick start menu, select circle.
a. Name the feature and then take 4 points inside Hole A.
b. Once the points are taken, select the Finish button from the quick start screen.
c. Repeat the previous steps for hole C, E and F.
2.
3.
In the text box on the left, highlight all the measured holes; A, B,C,E, & F.
4.
In the Axes selection box, select Auto.
5.
In the Tolerances: section have Axes set to All. Enter a value of 0.01 for
both Plus and Minus.
6.
Select CREATE, then CLOSE.
7.
Reference the Edit Window and view the results of the dimensioning. Type in the
correct Nominals for all 5 holes. Refer to the supplied drawings for the nominals.
-142-
8.
From the Quick Start menu, select the Relation icon.

a. Select the Distance icon.
b.
c.
d.
e.
9.
Select the Circle-Circle icon.

Measure hole I using 4 points. When done taking points select the Next button.
Measure hole K using 4 points. When done taking points select the Finish
button. Select Close.
Reference the edit window and notice that the routine that was just completed
added hole I, and K to the program. It also calculated and added the distance
between the holes. Enter the nominals and tolerances for this dimension.
From the Relation menu, select the Angle icon.

a. Select the Line-Line X Y icon.
b.
c.
Measure the 16 angled line using 3 points from left to right. When done
taking points select the Next button.
From the feature list on the right of the Quick Start screen, select the Datum B
line. Select the Finish button. Select Close.
The default name

for this line may be
Line1.
d.
Reference the edit window and notice that the routine that was just completed
added the angled line to the program. It also calculated and added the angle
between the measured line and Datum B. Enter the nominals and tolerances for
this dimension.
-143-
V.
VI.
PRINTING THE REPORT

1.
2.

3.
From the toolbar, Save the program.

1.
From the toolbar, select theClear Marked icon.
2.
3.
A window will appear with the message: OK to mark manual alignment

features? Click on NO.
4.
Select the Execute icon and execute the program.
5.
-144-

Bonus Lab
Dimensioning, Constructions, Comments and Editing

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
I.

Measuring features with Feature Recognition
Measuring features with AUTO Features
Inserting Input and Report Comments
Dimensioning & Printing the report

1.
Create a new file called Bonuslab_dim. Select the Probe file.
2.
Put an operator comment that says Align demo block such that Datum B is along
the CMMs X-axis.
3.
Insert an input comment that says Serial number. Go to the edit window and
toggle the input comment from NO to YES. This instructs PC-DMIS to include
the input comment in the report.
4.
Go to the view setup and split the screen as done in previous labs.
5.
Before measuring any features, be sure to select the proper probe tip from the
toolbar.
6.
Measure Datum A, Datum B, and Datum C as done in previous labs.
7.
Construct an intersection point as done in previous labs.
8.
Insert an alignment to align the part to the position on the part where Datums A, B
and C intersect, as done in previous labs. Name this alignment ALN_ABC.
9.
Set the AUTO FILE SAVE to 5 Minutes to Save.
-145-
II.
III.
MEASURING WITH FEATURE RECOGNITION

1.
Measure the 16 angled line with 3 points from left to right. Name the feature
ANGLED.
2.
Measure Cone D as a cone with 3 rows of 4 points, totaling 12 points. Take 4 hits
inside cone D as deep in the cone as the probe tip will allow (approximately three
quarters down inside the cone, if possible), then take 4 points approximately
halfway down the cone. Finally take 4 hits near the top of the cone, and then strike
the END key on the keyboard or DONE on the JOG BOX
MEASURING USING AUTO FEATURES

1.
.
a. Verify the CIRCLE screen is active.
3 points on the surface of the demo block. Then the next step will be to take 3
points in the hole that is to be measured.
1. Take 3 points on the step surface surrounding Hole D on the demo block,
approximately .2 away from hole D.
3. Take 3 hits inside of hole D.
correct.
d. Set the hits to 4, and .20 for the Depth.
f. Change the ID to correspond with the hole to be measured (i.e. D).
g. Ensure that Type is Hole.
h. Starting and Ending angle?
i. Be sure to have the Measure box UN - checked, then click CREATE.
j. Repeat the above steps to measure holes C, G, H, I, & K. Name all features
except for hole K which should be identified as DATUM_D.
k. Click the CLOSE button, to close Auto Features.
-146-
IV.
DIMENSIONING
1.
Offset the origin to DATUM_D,

a. Set the origin to the center of the measured DATUM_D hole.
b. Name the alignment ALN_ABD.
2.
Insert a Report comment that says The following true position dimensions are
relative to Datum A, Datum B and Datum D.
3.
From the Dimension toolbar select the True Position icon

a. Highlight circles G, H and I from the list of features or from CAD.
b. Un-check the Use Datums box.
c. Ensure that M is selected as the feature modifier.
d. Under Axes select X and Y.
e. Click Create.
4.
Reference the Edit Window to view the results of the dimensioning. Verify the
nominals and enter +/- .005 for the tolerance on the diameters. Enter 0.014 for the
TP tolerance, per print.
5.
From the Alignment drop down menu, recall ALN_ABC.
6.
From the Construct toolbar select the Circle icon

.
a. The following steps will construct an intersecting circle from Cone D and
Datum A.
b. Select Cone D and the measured Datum A plane from the feature list or from
the graphic.
c. Click on the ID = box and enter a name for the constructed circle.
d. Select Intersection.
e. Click Create.
f. The graphic display window now displays a circle at the intersection of the cone
and the plane.
7.
Insert a Report comment that says The following dimensions are relative to
Datum A, Datum B and Datum C.
8.
Add dimensions X, Y, and D with tolerances = +/- 0.010 for all measured holes
and the constructed circle. While in this dimension screen, dimension the angle of
Cone D.
-147-
9.
From the Dimension toolbar select the Angle Between icon

.
a. Select the measured Datum B line from the feature list.
b. Select the line ANGLED (16 angled line) from the feature list.
c. Select 2 Dimensional as Angle Type.
d. Select Create.
10.
From the Dimension toolbar select the Concentricity icon

.
a. Select hole D, then select hole C from the feature list.
Note: By selecting the holes in this order, PC-DMIS calculates hole D as the
feature and hole C as the datum.
b. Enter + .005 as the tolerance.
c. Select Create.
11.
Reference the Edit Window to view the results of the dimensioning.

Enter +/- .005 for the tolerance on all the diameters and, +/- 1 for all angles, per
print. Verify the nominals are correct including the intersection circle constructed
from cone D and Datum A.
12.
While in the Edit window change the number of hits in DATUM_D,

a. Position the cursor to the left of the circle feature named DATUM_D.
b. Hit the F9 key on the keyboard.
c. The Auto Feature screen will now appear. This is an editing
version of this screen that will allow changes to be made to the feature.
d. Change the number of hits to 10.
NOTE: Be sure the Measure box is UN- checked when OK is selected, otherwise
PC-DMIS will prompt you to measure the feature right away.
e. Select OK. This will not create a new feature, however, it will
create the code necessary for the change that was just made.
f. Look at the code for DATUM_D to note the change that was made.
g. Place the cursor at the end of the program before continuing.
13.
Dimension the Roundness of DATUM_D. Enter a tolerance of +.001.
-148-
V.
PRINTING THE REPORT

1.
VI.
Setup the printer to print the edit window, and modify the edit window layout with
only the Dimensions, Comments and the Header/Footer as done in previous labs.

1.
Execute the program without marking the manual alignment.

NOTE: When the program executes an Input Comment screen will appear
waiting for a value to be entered. This is the input comment that was
inserted into the program at the beginning of this exercise. Type in the
number 123456 into this field as if this was the serial number for this
part and press OK. When the report is printed, this typed in value will
appear on the inspection report along with the report comments that were
entered during this exercise.
2.
CONGRATULATIONS, THE LAB IS COMPLETE!
-149-

Bonus Lab
Inserting Digital Pictures using Hyper Reports
1.
Take a digital picture of the part setup. Load this picture onto your computer and
save it as a bitmap. (This can be done by going to Start| Programs| Accessories|
Paint, pasting the picture and then saving the file.)
NOTE: Bitmaps are the only picture type that can be inserted into a hyper report.
(no jpgs, gifs, etc)
2.
Open PC-DMIS.
3.
From the View menu, select Hyper-Report Editor. This will bring up the hyper
report screen.
4.
From the Object Bar, select the Bitmap icon.

NOTE: To draw the box for the bitmap to be placed in the hyper report, move the
mouse over the working area of the screen. The arrow will change into a crosshair.
Use the left mouse button and drag the crosshair into a box the size that you wish
the bitmap to be.
5.
The Bitmap Dialog box will now appear. Select the Load button, and find the
digital picture that was created in step 1. Select the file and click on Open. A
preview of the picture will appear in the dialog box. Click on OK to insert the
picture into the hyper report.
6.
From the Object Bar, select the Text Box icon.

Draw the box above the digital picture.
NOTE: To draw the box for the text box to be placed in the hyper report, move the
mouse over the working area of the screen. The arrow will change into a crosshair.
Use the left mouse button and drag the crosshair into a box the size that you wish
the text box to be.
7.
Select the Text area of the box and type instructions to the operator.
NOTE: An example of the text would be Setup the part as shown in the picture
below.
-150-
8.
Before saving the report, you can now position the boxes as desired. The text in the
text box can also be modified by changing it to be bold, and/or increasing the font
size from the toolbar.
9.
Once the report is complete, select Save from the File menu and give it a name. The
file extension for a Hyper Report is .rpt.
10.
From the File menu select Close. This will close the report and the part program
should now be displayed.
11.
Go to the edit window and position the cursor close to the beginning of the
program. A good place to position the cursor may be just after the TIP command
that follows the LOADPROBE command.
12.
From the Insert menu select Report Command, Hyper view Report. Select
the report file created previously. This placed a command in the program to instruct
PC-DMIS to display the report when the program is executed.
-151-

Bonus Lab
Inserting Digital Pictures as an External Object
1.
Take a digital picture of the part setup. Load this picture onto your computer and
save it as a bitmap. (This can be done by going to Start| Programs| Accessories|
Paint, pasting the picture and then saving the file.)
2.
Open PC-DMIS.
3.
From the Insert menu, select Report Command, External Object. This will bring
up the insert object screen.
-152-
4.
From the Insert Object screen.

a. Select the Create from File radio button.
b. Select the Browse button and browse for the file that you wish to insert into the
PC-DMIS program. (The example file is FRONT1.jpg)
c. Place a checkmark in the Display as Icon box.

NOTE: Checking the Display as Icon box will result in an icon appearing in the
edit window. However, when the program executes the digital picture
will appear on the screen.
The edit window will look similar to the graphic below.
-153-
Marking External Objects for Execution

By default, external objects print and do not execute when executing a part program. However,
with some objects, the desired action may be to execute and not print.
Example: When embedding a graphic, the desired action may be to print the graphic to the report;
while when embedding a sound or movie clip, the desired action may be to execute the object to
play the clip at execution time.
External objects have four modes of execution:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Print Don't execute

Don't print Don't execute
Don't Print Execute
Print Execute
To switch between the different modes, press F3 while the insertion point is on the same line as the
external object in the Edit window.
Hash lines and hashed borders are used to indicate the objects current mode of execution. See the
examples below.
No hash lines When no hash lines appear over
the object, the object will print to
the report.
When a hashed border outlines the
Hashed
object, the object will execute.
border
Note: The execute action is always the same action that occurs when an external object is double
clicked. For media clips, this default action is usually play. For most other objects, the default
action is edit.
Play Sound clips will play sound. Movie clips will play their movie, etc.
-154-
Edit Objects that have a default action of edit will usually not be objects that would need to be
executed. However, some application objects also have the ability to run custom basic scripts upon
being activated. A word document or excel spreadsheet are examples of this type of external
object. With these types of objects and the PC-DMIS automation commands, it is possible to
change the object using data from the part program. For example, an excel graph could be inserted
inside a part program that has a basic script that, when activated, would pull data out of the part
program using the PC-DMIS automation commands and adjust the graph accordingly before it was
printed on the inspection report.
When the program is executed the picture will appear similar to the example below.
-155-

Bonus Lab
Using Pattern Offsets and Marked Sets

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
I.
PART SETUP
1.
II.
Part setup
Measuring and Dimensioning Features
Using Pattern Offsets
Creating Marked Sets
Executing the program using Marked Sets
Fixture the Demo Block on the table with Datum B parallel to the X-axis and
Datum A facing in the Z+ direction.
MANUAL ALIGNMENT OF DEMO BLOCK

1.
Create a new file.
2.
In the Probe Utilities window, select a Probe File.
3.
Place an Operator comment explaining the part setup.
4.
Measure the top surface (Datum A) as a plane.
5.
Measure the front surface (Datum B) as a line.
6.
Measure the left (outermost) surface (Datum C) as a line.
7.
From the Construction toolbar select the Point icon. Construct an intersection
point between the previously measured lines.
8.
From the Insert menu select Alignment, New

a. Select the Plane as the Level
b. Select Datum B for Rotate
c. Select the constructed point as the Origin for X and Y, the Plane as the Origin
for Z.
d. Select OK.
-156-
III.
MEASURING AND DIMENSIONING FEATURES

1.
Using Feature Recognition, measure Hole A, Hole B and hole K as circles.
2.
From the Alignments screen, set the Origin to the center of Hole K.
3.
Using Feature Recognition measure Hole I.
4.
From the Dimension toolbar select the True Position icon.

a. Highlight circle I from the list of features.
b. Un-check the Use Datums box.
c. Ensure that M is selected as the feature modifier.
d. Click Create.
5.
Reference the Edit Window to view the results of the dimensioning.

Enter the Nominals, and enter +/- .005 for the tolerance on the diameters. Enter
0.014 for the TP tolerance, per print.
nominals back to the feature? Select Yes. It is essential that these
nominals are carried back to the feature in order to create a perfect feature
to be used in the pattern.
IV.
USING PATTERN OFFSETS

1.
From the Edit Window, use the mouse to highlight the commands associated with
measuring Hole I, including the True Position dimension. Now that this is
highlighted, select the Copy icon.
2.
From the Edit menu, select Pattern. Under Offset, type 90 in the Angle space.
Type 2 for the Number of Times to offset.
3.
Position the cursor at the end of the program. Select the Paste w/ Pattern icon.
NOTE: Look in the edit window and observe the 2 new circles that have been
created from the pattern, along with their dimensions. Also, move the edit window
to view the 2 circles in the graphical display.
4.
From the Edit Window, verify the Nominals and tolerances have been entered for
ALL of the features.
-157-
V.
CREATING MARKED SETS

1.
From the View menu, select Marked Sets Window,

Create a marked set to execute the entire program
a. Using the mouse, double click in the center of the marked sets window (grey
area).
b. A window will appear prompting to Enter Mark Set Label. Name this set
Full Inspection.
NOTE: Do not close this Marked Sets window. This window needs to remain open
to complete these steps; however, it can be minimized or moved out of the way.
c. The Print options screen will appear. Place a checkmark in the Printer box by
selecting the box. Select OK.
d. From the toolbar, select the Clear Marked icon.
e. From the toolbar, select the Mark All icon.
f. Say Yes to marking the Manual alignment.
Create another marked set to execute only the part measurement
g. Using the mouse, double click in the center of the marked sets window (grey
area).
h. A window will appear prompting to Enter Mark Set Label. Name this set
Part Only.
i. The Print options screen will appear. Place a checkmark in the Printer box by
selecting the box. Select OK.
j. From the toolbar, select the Clear Marked icon.
k. From the toolbar, select the Mark All icon.
l. Say No to marking the Manual alignment.
VI.
EXECUTING THE PROGRAM USING MARKED SETS

1.
Save the program before continuing.
2.
From the View menu, select Marked Sets, if this window is closed.
3.
Using the mouse, select the Full Inspection set.

NOTE: PCDMIS will now execute this set, which represents the entire inspection.
Set the jog box to run slowly and proceed.
4.
Once the program is complete, select the Part Only set.

NOTE: PCDMIS will now execute this set, which represents ONLY the measured
features after the alignment. Therefore, the alignment will not be re-executed.
-158-
Quizzes
-159-

Name:________________________
Date: _________________________
Quiz # 1
1) Name the three (3) axes that make up a coordinate system:
____________________
____________________
____________________
2) The point where the three axes of a CMM are equal to zero is called the machine origin.
True
False
3) With PC-DMIS you can set up your own directory structure to store your part programs.
True
False
4) In PC-DMIS, it is not possible to have multiple programs open at the same time.
True
False
-160-
5) The first program that is opened in PC-DMIS is online with the CMM. All other programs are
what?
_____________________________
6) To ZOOM in on a specific area of a part (depicted by a CAD graphic), you must box in the
selected window by using:
A) The LEFT mouse button only
B) The RIGHT button only
C) The LEFT and RIGHT mouse buttons together
D) None of the above
7) If you wish to create a copy, or backup, of a part program in PC-DMIS, which option would
you choose from the File menu?
A) New
B) Execute
C) Operations
D) Import
8) To bring up the probe utility window, you can use the shortcut Ctrl+Alt+P or you can select
which menu options?
A) Edit| Preferences| Setup
B) View| Probe Readout Window
C) Operation| Calibrate/Edit| Active Probe
9) In order to un-draw a probe component, you must do what to it in the probe utilities window?
A) Single Click
B) Double Click
C) Right Click
-161-
10) Probe calibration determines what TWO things?

__________________________________
__________________________________
11) Taking more points in a probe calibration improves the accuracy of
dimensions in the part program.
True
False
12) When viewing the calibration results, what is the desired range for the standard deviation?
________________________________
13) What is an example of a cause for the standard deviation in the calibration results screen to
be outside the desired range?
_____________________________________________________
14) If using a 1 inch calibration sphere whose shank is straight up and down, how would you fill
out the ADD TOOL dialog box?
-162-

Name:________________________
Date: _________________________
Quiz # 2
1) A part origin is:
A) The first point measured on the part
B) A reference point on the part
C) The name of the place where the part was manufactured.
D) The centroid of the calibration sphere.
2) Name the three (3) elements that make up a part alignment system.
______________
______________
______________
3) It is important to level before measuring two-dimensional features.
True
False
4) When you are creating a basic alignment, the level to axis and the rotate about axis should be
the same.
True
False
-163-
5) To move the alignment from the center of the hole to the point where the two lines intersect,
you would have to use the offset distance box in the alignment screen. The sign for the offset
distances for x and y should be what respectively?
A) Positive, Negative
B) Negative, Negative
C) Negative, Positive
6) Seven feature types are supported under PC-DMIS's Feature Type Recognition capability.
The feature types are points, line, planes, circles, cylinders, spheres, and what?
A) Slots
B) Cones
C) Ellipses
7) Circles and lines measured using Feature Recognition are dependent on the active workplane
for calculation purposes.
True
False
8) Name TWO methods of constructing an Offset Alignment within the Alignment Utilities
option.
___________________________________
___________________________________
-164-
9) To erase a measured hit, which keyboard key(s) would you strike ?

A) TAB key
B) ESC key
C) Alt (minus) key
D) F1 hot key
10) From the Dimension Location window, it is possible to dimension more than one feature at a
time.
True
False
11) To dimension the angle of a cone you would select which option from the dimension menu?
A) Angle Between
B) Location
C) Distance
12) Once a part program has been created in Inches (in), it is possible to dimension in
Millimeters (mm) inside the program.
True
False
13) If you wish to create an electronic copy (pdf or word document) of the inspection report as
well as a hard copy, you need to select which menu options and then check the File box?
A) Edit| Preferences| Edit Window Layout
B) File| Printing| Edit Window Print Setup
C) File| Printing| Edit Window Print
-165-
14) If you wish to change the order of the columns on your inspection report, (Nominals, Meas,
Tol) you need to select which tab under Edit| Preferences| Parameters?
A) Probing
B) Motion
C) Dimension
LINE2
LINE1
15) If you select LINE1 and LINE2 to rotate to X plus about Z plus what will the alignment look
like? (Note: This is not good measuring practice.)
Y
A)
X
X
B)
Y
C)
-166-
16) If you wanted to dimension the width of the block you would select LINE1 and LINE2 from
the list in the dimension screen. If you chose parallel to in the orientation section, what box
would you check in the relationship section?
A) To X Axis
B) To Y Axis
C) To Z Axis
17) To dimension the length of the round slot you would select CIR1 and CIR2 from the list in
the dimension screen and then select which item from the circle options section?
A) No Radius
B) Add Radius
C) Sub Radius
18) If you wanted to dimension the distance between LINE3 and CIR3 perpendicular to LINE3
you would check to feature from the relationship section. Which feature would you select
first from the list in the distance screen?
_______________________
-167-
PC-DMIS PRO Manual

Name: ________________________
Date: _________________________
Quiz # 3
1) What do IJK values define?
A) A vector
B) A part alignment
C) A centroid of a sphere
2) When taking points to measure a line, how is the direction (vector) of the line determined?
__________________________________________
3) What is the name of the function in PC-DMIS that allows you to bring in a CAD file?
A) Activate
B) Copy
C) Import
D) New Part
4) What is the name of the function in PC-DMIS that allows you to translate a PC-DMIS program
into another format (ex. DMIS, IGES, AVAIL etc)?
A) Copy
B) Export
C) Activate
D) New Part
-168-
5) After calibrating a probe tip, what function would you select from the Probe Utilities screen to
verify the accuracy of the probe calibration?
A) Measure
B) Mark Used
C) Results
D) Edit
6) In order to compensate for fluctuation in an uncontrolled environment (i.e. temperature, etc.), it

is recommended to calibrate on a daily basis.
True
False
7) If the part is moved while learning the program, what are the necessary steps in order to
continue learning the program?
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
8) To create a LINE between two previously measured circles which PC-DMIS function would
you use?
A) Construction
B) Dimension
C) Operation
9) When constructing a feature, what is the difference between the best fit and best fit recomp
types?
_________________________________________________
-169-
10) To establish a relationship with the current alignment and the CAD data, which of the
following options would you select from the Alignment Utilities screen?
A) Auto Align
B) Iterative
C) Set Origin
D) CAD = PART
11) Before pressing CAD=Part, you must build an alignment that is equal to the alignment used in
the CAD model.
True
False
12) When changing the colors of a CAD drawing, you can select the desired features by doing
what?
___________________________________
13) The value set in the find nominals tolerance field is usually larger for solid models than it is for
wire frame models.
True
False
-170-

Name: ________________________
Date: _________________________
Quiz # 4
1) Please match the following file extensions with their associated file type.
___ .prg
a. Probe Files
___ .prb
b. Alignment Files
___ .aln
c. Part Program Files
2) Which keyboard key would you use to move between the fields within a window (i.e.: New
Part Program window).
A) Enter key
B) ESC key
C) Tab key
D) Any of the above
3) After making changes in the editor, you must re-execute the program in order for the changes
to take place.
True
False
-171-
4) Autosave is an important function in PC-DMIS that prevents complete loss of your program if
a power failure occurs.
Which options would you select to activate the Autosave function ?
A) Edit/ Preferences/ Setup / General
B) Edit/ Preferences / Setup/ Dimension
C) Edit/ Preferences / Parameters/ Dimension
5)
By selecting the Autosave function, it is not necessary to select Save from

the File menu, or toolbar, at any time.
True
False
6)
For correct calculations and results, you must know the direction (vectors) of
lines.
True
False
7) A True Position tolerance produces a square tolerance zone.

True
False
8) In a Feature Control Frame what does this symbol mean
__________________________________
9) When creating a true position dimension, what column is added to the inspection report that is
not present when creating a location dimension?
A) Bonus
B) Nominal
C) Max
-172-
10) If you have a material condition on a datum, then you must un-check the Use Datums Box.
True
False
11) When dimensioning a feature that relates to a Datum (i.e. Concentricity), the Datum feature is
selected
First
Second
Either
12) When you save a window layout, it also saves the options that you have selected under Edit|
Preferences| Edit Window Layout.
True
False
13) In order to delete a saved window layout, you must hold down what key and then drag the icon
into the graphics display window?
A) Control
B) Alt
C) Shift
14) Icons for executable files like Excel, Datapage, and the calculator can be added to a toolbar.
True
False
-173-
DCC Section
15) Where on the calibration sphere is 90 deg when setting up the starting and ending angles in
PC-DMIS's Measure Probe function ?
A
B
16) Which function do you select from the Probe Utilities screen to input your motion parameters
(Touch Speed, Move Speed etc) for calibration?
A) Edit
B) Mark Used
C) Results
D) Measure
17) It is a good measuring practice to incorporate a DCC alignment in a part program to achieve
more accuracy.
True
False
-174-
18) If you wish to change the machine speed, touch speed, prehit or retract values, which tab
under Parameters would you choose ?
A) Clearance Plane
B) Motion
C) Dimensions
D) Probe
19)
For the sake of accuracy and precision, the touch speed used in the probe
calibration should be the same as that used in the part program.
True
False
20) Name THREE types of DCC Move commands that can be inserted into a program to provide
clearance for the probe.
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
-175-

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This workbook is written as an aid to learning PC-DMIS measurement software in a

Forms to be filled out during class by attending student

This workbook was created by Steve Gregorio using Microsoft Word

Student Background Questionnaire

Email address: ______________________________

Is your company planning on using CAD for programming in PC-DMIS?

If yes then which CAD package will be used? _______________________________________________________________________________

If yes then how was this experience acquired?

Please rate your experience level using a windows based computer:

Type of probe head on the above system:

Basic Knowledge of PCs in the windows environment.

CMM overview and demonstration

Open File Dialog Box

New File Dialog Box

Menus & Toolbars

Sections of the PC-DMIS Interface

Top: File| Quit Btm: File| Operations

Edit| Graphics Display Window| View Setup

Insert| Report Command| Save Viewset

Probe Utility Window

Operation| Calibrate/Edit |Active Probe

Double click on probe component

Un-drawing Parts of a Probe Configuration

Measure Probe Screen

From Probe Utility Window: Measure Button

Add Tool Dialog Box

Qualification Tool Message

Calibration Results Screen

7 Feature Recognition Feature Types

Change a Guessed Feature Type

Feature Measurement Hot Keys

Deletes the last feature

Probe Readout Window

Left: View| Probe Readouts

Insert |Alignment| New

Alignment Offset Methods

Saving an Alignment Externally

Insert |Alignment| Recall

Insert| Parameter Change| Probe| Manual / DCC Mode

Insert| Parameter Change| Clearance Planes

Dimension Output Options

File| Printing| Edit Window Print Setup

Edit Dimension Colors

Edit| Graphics Display Window| Dimension Color

Auto Feature Vector Point

Insert| Feature| Auto| Point| Vector

Auto Feature Circle

Auto Feature Cylinder

Insert| Feature| Auto| Cylinder

General Setup Options

Edit| Preferences| Setup| General Tab

Dimension Setup Options

Edit| Preferences| Setup| ID Setup Tab

Edit| Preferences| Set Search Path

Set Search Path

Processing an IGES File

File| Import| IGES| Import Button

CAD=Part & Find Nominals

Top: Insert| Alignment| New (Ctrl+Alt+A)

Shading a Solid CAD Model

Edit| Graphics Display Window| View Setup

Changing CAD Colors

Edit| Graphics Display Window| CAD Elements