Hexagon RA8-Compact Absolute Arm Coordinate Measuring Machine

Overview

The Hexagon RA8-Compact Absolute Arm Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) is an engineered solution for high-accuracy, contact-based dimensional metrology in constrained or dynamic production environments. Based on the proven kinematic architecture of Hexagon’s absolute encoder technology, the RA8-Compact operates on the principle of multi-axis angular displacement measurement—each joint integrates a high-resolution absolute optical encoder that eliminates the need for homing or warm-up cycles. This enables immediate measurement readiness upon power-on, supporting rapid deployment directly on shop-floor workbenches, beside CNC machining centers, or within assembly lines. Its portable form factor—combined with battery-powered operation, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and IP54-rated ingress protection—ensures reliable performance under ambient temperatures up to 45 °C and in environments subject to dust and light splashing water. Designed specifically for small-to-medium part verification, the RA8-Compact delivers traceable geometric accuracy compliant with ISO 10360-2 (length measurement error) and ISO 10360-12 (scanning performance), making it suitable for first-article inspection, in-process quality control, tooling validation, and reverse engineering workflows.

Key Features

• Integrated absolute encoders at all six joints—enabling zero warm-up time and eliminating mechanical homing procedures
• Carbon fiber arm structure—providing exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio, thermal stability, and long-term repeatability
• Self-contained, quick-deploy integrated base—removing dependency on external fixtures or repeated repositioning calibration
• Dual-mode operation: supports high-precision tactile probing (with interchangeable styli and trigger probes) and optional entry-level laser line scanning for surface digitization
• Multi-sensory feedback system—including visual status indicators, audible tone alerts, and haptic response—optimized for usability in noisy industrial settings
• IP54-rated enclosure—certified for resistance to dust ingress and water splashes, ensuring operational continuity in non-climate-controlled manufacturing zones
• Battery-powered autonomy—enabling uninterrupted measurements for up to 8 hours per charge, with hot-swappable capability
• Wireless data transmission via Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0—supporting real-time synchronization with Hexagon Metrology software platforms

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RA8-Compact is optimized for parts with nominal dimensions ranging from 50 mm to 1,200 mm and mass up to 15 kg. It accommodates diverse geometries—including prismatic components, castings, machined housings, injection-molded assemblies, and sheet metal fabrications—without requiring dedicated fixturing in most cases. All certified accuracy specifications are validated per ISO 10360-2 (for single-point probing) and ISO 10360-12 (for scanning mode), with full uncertainty budgets traceable to national metrology institutes. The system meets electromagnetic compatibility requirements per EN 61326-1 and safety standards per EN 61000-6-2/6-4. While not classified as GMP or FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant out-of-the-box, its integration with Hexagon’s SFx Asset Management platform enables audit-ready logging of calibration history, usage metrics, and environmental exposure records—facilitating GLP-aligned documentation practices where required.

Software & Data Management

The RA8-Compact operates natively with Hexagon’s PC-DMIS Touch and QUINDOS software suites, supporting GD&T evaluation per ASME Y14.5 and ISO 1101 standards. Measurement programs can be created offline and deployed via secure Wi-Fi push. All probe hits, scan paths, and alignment transformations are stored in vendor-neutral .IGES, .STEP AP214, or .XYZ formats. When connected to SFx, the device reports geolocation, battery level, temperature exposure, and last-calibration timestamp to a centralized dashboard—allowing fleet-wide oversight across distributed facilities. Audit trails include user ID, timestamp, and firmware version for each measurement session, supporting internal quality audits and regulatory review readiness.

Applications

• First-article inspection of machined components prior to batch release
• In-process verification of critical dimensions during CNC machining setup and tool wear monitoring
• Tool and fixture certification—including jig alignment, weld fixture validation, and robotic end-effector calibration
• Reverse engineering of legacy parts lacking CAD documentation
• Assembly gap and flush analysis in automotive body-in-white and aerospace subassemblies
• Weld seam inspection and post-weld distortion mapping using laser scanning add-on

FAQ

Does the RA8-Compact require periodic recalibration?
Yes—while absolute encoders eliminate daily homing, annual traceable calibration per ISO 10360-2 is recommended to maintain certified accuracy; Hexagon-certified service partners provide on-site or depot calibration with NIST-traceable artifacts.
Can the RA8-Compact be used outdoors?
It is rated IP54 and tolerates ambient temperatures up to 45 °C, but direct sunlight exposure, condensation, or rain are outside its design envelope; use is restricted to covered industrial spaces or climate-stabilized transport containers.
Is laser scanning functionality included by default?
No—the base configuration supports only tactile probing; laser scanning requires a separately ordered and calibrated scanner module, compatible with the RA8-Compact’s mounting interface and software licensing.
What software licenses are mandatory for operation?
A valid PC-DMIS Touch license is required for basic measurement execution; advanced GD&T reporting, scanning, or SFx integration necessitates additional module entitlements managed through Hexagon’s License Manager.
How does the integrated base ensure repeatable positioning?
The base incorporates precision-ground reference surfaces and magnetic anchoring points aligned to the arm’s kinematic origin; when placed on a stable, flat surface, it establishes a consistent local coordinate system without requiring iterative releveling or datum redefinition.