Probe Mount

The probe mount is a critical component of a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) arm, serving as the physical and electrical interface between the arm's final joint and the measurement probe. Its primary function is to provide a rigid, repeatable, and precise mounting platform for various types of touch-trigger or scanning probes. It ensures accurate transmission of probe signals and maintains the probe's defined position relative to the arm's coordinate system, which is essential for dimensional metrology.

This directory entry covers probe mounts designed for standard CMM probe heads, with a mounting interface conforming to DIN 69893. They accommodate probe diameters in the range of 8–12 mm. The positioning accuracy is specified as ±0.005 mm, and repeatability is ±0.002 mm, both of which are critical for reliable measurements. The maximum load capacity is 50–100 N, suitable for typical probe weights and contact forces. The operating temperature range is 5–40 °C, aligning with common CMM environmental limits.

Materials commonly used include stainless steel, aluminum alloy, and ceramic. A specific material grade listed is Stainless Steel 304, with a surface hardness of HRC 40–45. The weight of the mount is typically 0.5–1.0 kg, designed to minimize inertia. The IP rating is IP54, providing dust and splash protection.

These specifications are reference values from the directory and must be verified for the specific model and application. The listed standards (DIN 69893, ISO 230-2, ASTM A276, ASTM E18, IEC 60529) serve as procurement and verification references, not as proof of certification or compliance. Always confirm model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before purchase or use.

The probe mount provides a standardized mechanical coupling, often using a kinematic or taper-lock mechanism, and electrical connections. It rigidly fixes the probe in place, ensuring that any deflection or vibration from the arm is minimized at the measurement point. When a probe makes contact with a workpiece, the signal (mechanical trigger or analog deflection) is transmitted through the mount's connections back to the CMM's controller to record a coordinate point. The mount's design ensures repeatable positioning and accurate signal transmission, which are essential for dimensional metrology.