Optimal Prioritization of the Model of Distribution of Measurement Points on a Free-Form Surface in Effective Use of CMMs

Investigation of the optimal model of the distribution of measurement points (DoMPs) on a free-form surface (FFS) for performing coordinate measurements is vital for the effective use of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). The selection of the optimal model is currently being made in an ad hoc manner. The selection criteria of the best distribution of measurement points in general may depend on the possibility of estimating the curvature on an FFS, the time taken for measurements, the deviations of the substitute geometry from the nominal free-form surface and the deviations calculated based on the probe radius correction process. This manuscript demonstrates the use of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to deal with the multi-criteria nature in the selection of the optimal model of the distribution of measurement points. It also demonstrates how to prioritize the measurement points’ distribution models based on the selection criteria.