API Axxis Portable Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)

Overview

The API Axxis Portable Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) is a high-performance, 6-degree-of-freedom articulated arm system engineered for precision geometric metrology in dynamic industrial environments. Unlike traditional fixed-frame CMMs, the Axxis leverages a kinematically optimized carbon fiber arm architecture—designed to minimize thermal expansion, mass inertia, and mechanical hysteresis—enabling stable, repeatable measurements across variable workshop conditions. Its core measurement principle relies on high-resolution absolute encoders at each joint, combined with real-time environmental compensation algorithms that dynamically adjust for ambient temperature and humidity fluctuations. This ensures traceable dimensional accuracy per ISO 10360-2 and ASME B89.4.10 standards without requiring climate-controlled labs. The system supports both tactile probing and non-contact scanning modalities, making it suitable for first-article inspection, in-process verification, tooling validation, and reverse engineering workflows across large-scale manufactured components.

Key Features

• Ultra-lightweight carbon fiber arm structure (~4 kg), optimized for thermal stability and portability across shop floor, assembly line, or field service applications.
• Six-axis fully articulating design enabling unrestricted access to complex geometries—including occluded features, deep cavities, and undercuts—without repositioning the part or arm base.
• Volumetric accuracy ranging from ±0.060 mm (Axxis6-100/M) to ±0.350 mm (Axxis6-200/XG), calibrated and certified per ISO 10360-2 Annex B protocols.
• Integrated dual-sensor environmental module (temperature + relative humidity) feeding real-time compensation into the kinematic model—critical for maintaining repeatability across diurnal or seasonal thermal gradients.
• USB 2.0 interface with hot-plug capability simplifies deployment with standard industrial laptops; no external power supply or proprietary docking station required.
• Modular probe ecosystem supporting Renishaw-compatible triggering probes, broadband laser line scanners (for high-density surface capture), and specialized non-contact tube measurement heads for bent-pipe geometry analysis.
• Expandable measurement envelope: base configurations span 2.6 m to 4.2 m diameter; optional articulating base mounts and motorized height-adjustable stands extend operational flexibility without sacrificing rigidity.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Axxis accommodates parts ranging from small machined fittings (<50 mm) to large aerospace subassemblies (>3 m in length), including thin-walled sheet metal, castings, forgings, composite airframe structures, and turbine blade assemblies. Its tactile and optical probing options ensure compatibility with reflective, matte, curved, or thermally sensitive surfaces. All measurement routines adhere to documented calibration hierarchies traceable to NIST standards. System validation reports support GLP/GMP audit readiness, and raw data logs include full metadata (timestamp, environmental readings, probe ID, operator tag) compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when used with validated software platforms such as PowerINSPECT Enterprise.

Software & Data Management

The Axxis operates natively with industry-standard metrology software suites—including Hexagon PowerINSPECT, Mastercam Measure, Rhinoceros + ScanTools, and Capps-NT—enabling seamless integration into existing CAD/CAM/CAI pipelines. All software interfaces support GD&T evaluation per ASME Y14.5 and ISO 1101, automated report generation (PDF/HTML/XML), and direct comparison against nominal CAD models (STEP, IGES, Parasolid). Audit trails record every measurement event—including parameter changes, probe swaps, and environmental corrections—with immutable timestamps. Optional cloud-sync modules enable secure, role-based access to historical datasets across global engineering teams while preserving local data sovereignty.

Applications

• Automotive: White body-in-white (BIW) dimensional verification, fixture and gauge certification, weld seam inspection, and assembly alignment validation.
• Aerospace: Structural component inspection (wing ribs, fuselage frames), turbine vane and blade profile analysis, and reverse engineering of legacy parts lacking CAD documentation.
• Energy: Dimensional verification of steam turbine rotors/stators, pipe spool QA/QC in nuclear and offshore installations, and wear mapping of generator housings.
• Tool & Die: Mold cavity verification, wear progression tracking, and electrode inspection for EDM processes.
• Heavy Machinery: Large gear train alignment, casting dimensional conformity checks, and structural weldment verification per AWS D1.1.

FAQ

What calibration standards does the Axxis comply with?
The Axxis is validated per ISO 10360-2 for portable CMMs and ASME B89.4.10 for articulated arm performance testing. Certificate of conformance includes volumetric error maps and environmental sensitivity coefficients.
Can the Axxis perform GD&T analysis without third-party software?
No—the Axxis hardware functions as a metrology sensor platform; GD&T evaluation requires compatible software such as PowerINSPECT or Capps-NT, which provide certified algorithms per ASME Y14.5–2018.
Is the system suitable for use in uncontrolled production environments?
Yes—its integrated thermal compensation, low-mass carbon fiber construction, and robust encoder design enable reliable operation in ambient temperatures from 10 °C to 40 °C and humidity up to 90% RH non-condensing.
Does the Axxis support automated reporting for quality audits?
Yes—when paired with validated software, it generates ISO/IEC 17025-compliant inspection reports with full traceability, including operator ID, environmental logs, probe calibration status, and uncertainty budgets.
What is the typical recalibration interval?
Annual recalibration is recommended per ISO 17025 guidelines; however, in-house verification using artifact standards (e.g., ball bars, step gauges) should be performed daily or per shift in critical applications.