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Dimensional Metrology is the science of calibrating and using physical measurement equipment to quantify the physical size of or distance from any given object. Inspection is a critical step in product development and quality control.

Early Metrologists would often create a central measurement standard based on a yard stick or meter. For example, early Egyptian meter sticks where based on a piece of metal that was the size of the Pharaoh's forearm called a Cubit. Carpenters were some of the first dimensional inspectors as seen today.

Modern measurement equipment includes; hand tools, CMM (Coordinate-Measurement Machine), and optical comparators. For hand tools, see Caliper and micrometer. A CMM is based on CNC technology to automate measurement of Cartesian coordinates from physical contact with the part. Optical comparators are used when physically touching the part is undesirable. Optical comparators can now build 3D models of a scanned part and internal passages using x-ray technology.

Data is collected in or compared to a print. A print is a blueprint illustrating crucial features. Prints can be hand drawn or automatically generated by a CAD model.

See also

• Mechanical Engineering

References

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External links

• Description of a high-definition dimensional metrology technology
• An example of Industrial Metrology equipment.
• A machine shop specializing in Dimensional Metrology