Moving Bridge Structure for CMM | Component Directory

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Moving Bridge Structure

Definition

The moving bridge structure is a critical component of automated coordinate measuring machine (CMM) systems, serving as the primary structural element that carries the Z-axis ram and probe assembly. It moves with high precision along the machine's granite base (X-axis guideways), providing the necessary rigidity and stability to maintain measurement accuracy while traversing the measurement volume. Its design minimizes deflection and vibration to ensure repeatable positioning of the measuring probe. The structure is typically fabricated from aluminum alloy (e.g., 6061-T6) or granite composite, with precision steel components for critical interfaces. It is mounted on precision air bearings or mechanical bearings that ride along hardened and ground guideways on the machine base. A servo motor drives the bridge via a precision ballscrew or linear motor system, with position feedback from linear encoders ensuring accurate movement to programmed coordinates. The moving bridge structure is available in a range of configurations to suit different measuring ranges and performance requirements. Key parameters include measuring range (X-axis) from 500 to 2000 mm, maximum permissible error (E0, MPEE) from 1.5 to 3.5 µm per ISO 10360-2, repeatability from 1.0 to 2.0 µm, maximum drive speed from 300 to 500 mm/s, and maximum acceleration from 1000 to 2000 mm/s². Operating temperature range is 15 to 30 °C, relative humidity 40 to 70% RH, and air supply pressure 0.5 to 0.7 MPa with air consumption 50 to 150 L/min. Supply voltage is 220–240 V AC, power consumption 1.0 to 2.5 kW, and weight 1500 to 5000 kg. The guide system is typically air bearing, requiring clean and dry air. These values are reference ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application with the legal manufacturer or supplier.

Working Principle

The moving bridge structure is mounted on precision air bearings or mechanical bearings that ride along hardened and ground guideways on the machine base. A servo motor drives the bridge via a precision ballscrew or linear motor system. Position feedback from linear encoders ensures accurate movement to programmed coordinates, allowing the probe to access any point within the machine's X-axis travel range. The structure's rigidity and damping characteristics are designed to minimize deflection and vibration, ensuring stable and repeatable positioning during measurement cycles.

Common Materials

Aluminum alloy (e.g., 6061-T6), Granite composite, Precision steel components

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Measuring Range (X-axis)	500–2000 mm	Determines maximum part length measurable.
Maximum Permissible Error (E0, MPEE)	1.5–3.5 µm	Critical for measurement accuracy.ISO 10360-2
Repeatability	1.0–2.0 µm	Consistency of repeated measurements.ISO 10360-2
Maximum Drive Speed	300–500 mm/s	Affects throughput and dynamic performance.
Maximum Acceleration	1000–2000 mm/s²	Influences dynamic accuracy and cycle time.
Operating Temperature Range	15–30 °C	Outside this range, accuracy may degrade.ISO 10360-2
Relative Humidity Range	40–70 % RH	Non-condensing; high humidity can cause corrosion.
Air Supply Pressure	0.5–0.7 MPa	Required for air bearings; must be clean and dry.ISO 8573-1
Air Consumption	50–150 L/min	Depends on bearing design and load.
Supply Voltage	220–240 V AC	Single phase, 50/60 Hz.IEC 60204-1
Power Consumption	1.0–2.5 kW	Includes drives, controller, and accessories.
Weight	1500–5000 kg	Affects foundation and installation requirements.
Material (Structural)	Aluminum 6061-T6	High stiffness-to-weight ratio; granite base optional.ASTM B221
Guide System	Air bearing	Frictionless, high precision; requires clean air.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Bridge Beam Part
Main horizontal structural member that spans the machine base and carries the Z-axis

Material: Aluminum alloy or granite composite
Carriage/End Supports
Vertical structures at each end of the bridge beam that house the bearing systems and connect to drive mechanisms

Material: Aluminum alloy or cast iron
Bearing System
Precision air bearings or linear roller bearings that enable smooth, frictionless movement along guideways

Material: Ceramic, steel, or composite materials
Drive Connection Part
Interface point for the ballscrew nut or linear motor primary that transmits motion from the drive system

Material: Steel
Servo Drive and Ballscrew
Moves the bridge along X at the commanded speed and position.
Linear Encoders
Report actual bridge position; the machine's accuracy is read off them.

Manufacturers of Moving Bridge Structure

Manufacturer profiles associated with Moving Bridge Structure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of the moving bridge structure?

It carries the Z-axis ram and probe assembly and moves along the X-axis guideways to position the probe within the measurement volume, providing rigidity and stability for accurate measurements.

What materials are commonly used for the moving bridge structure?

Aluminum alloy (e.g., 6061-T6), granite composite, and precision steel components are typical materials, as listed in the directory.

How is the moving bridge structure driven?

It is driven by a servo motor via a precision ballscrew or linear motor system, with position feedback from linear encoders for accurate positioning.

What are the typical performance ranges for the moving bridge structure?

Measuring range (X-axis) is 500–2000 mm, maximum permissible error (E0, MPEE) is 1.5–3.5 µm, repeatability is 1.0–2.0 µm, maximum drive speed is 300–500 mm/s, and maximum acceleration is 1000–2000 mm/s². These are reference ranges; verify with the manufacturer.

Data Basis

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Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Atmospheric (non-pressure application)
other spec:	Max bridge travel: 500-2000mm, Positioning accuracy: ±0.5-2μm, Max load capacity: 50-200kg
temperature:	15-25°C (operating), 10-35°C (storage)

Moving Bridge Structure

Product Specifications

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Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

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