API Axxis Portable Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)

Overview

The API Axxis Portable Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) is a high-performance, six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) articulated arm-based metrology system engineered for precision geometric measurement in production floors, assembly lines, tool rooms, and field environments. Unlike traditional fixed-frame CMMs, the Axxis leverages a kinematically optimized carbon fiber arm architecture—designed to minimize thermal expansion and mechanical hysteresis—enabling traceable dimensional verification under variable ambient conditions. Its measurement principle relies on high-resolution absolute encoders at each joint, combined with real-time environmental compensation algorithms, to deliver volumetric accuracy compliant with ISO 10360-2 and ASME B89.4.22 standards. The system supports both tactile probing and non-contact scanning modalities, making it suitable for first-article inspection, GD&T validation, reverse engineering, and in-process quality assurance across large-scale manufactured components.

Key Features

• Lightweight carbon fiber arm (~4 kg) with low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), enabling stable performance across ambient temperature fluctuations (10–40 °C).
• True 6-axis articulation with zero-restriction rotation design—facilitating full-volume access to occluded features, deep cavities, and complex freeform surfaces without repositioning.
• Modular probe compatibility: supports Renishaw TP20/TP200 series trigger probes, API’s broadband laser line scanner (for high-density surface capture), and specialized non-contact tube measurement probes for bent-pipe geometry analysis.
• Real-time environmental compensation via integrated temperature and relative humidity sensors—automatically correcting for thermal drift in accordance with ISO 10360-3 Annex D guidelines.
• USB 2.0 interface with hot-swap capability—enabling rapid deployment and seamless integration into existing shop-floor networks without driver conflicts or reboot requirements.
• Expandable measurement envelope: standard configurations cover 2.6 m, 3.2 m, and 4.2 m spherical diameters; optional articulating stands (manual or motorized) extend reach and improve ergonomic operation.
• Open software architecture—certified interoperability with PowerINSPECT, Mastercam Metrology, Rhinoceros + ScanTools, AlphaCAM QC, and Capps-NT for CAD-based comparison, deviation mapping, and automated reporting.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Axxis accommodates a broad range of industrial workpieces—from thin-walled sheet metal assemblies and turbine blades to cast engine blocks and composite airframe structures. Its tactile and optical probing options allow reliable measurement of machined surfaces (Ra < 0.8 µm), stamped features, weld seams, and tubular geometries with wall thicknesses down to 0.5 mm. All Axxis configurations comply with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for calibration laboratories when operated within defined environmental limits and validated using certified artifact sets (e.g., step gauges, sphere plates, and ring gauges). For regulated industries, the system supports audit-ready data logging—including operator ID, timestamp, environmental readings, and probe calibration history—aligning with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic record integrity expectations when paired with compliant software platforms.

Software & Data Management

The Axxis operates natively with API’s Metrology Software Suite (MSS), which provides full GD&T evaluation per ISO 1101 and ASME Y14.5, automated report generation (PDF/Excel), and cloud-enabled project synchronization. MSS includes built-in statistical process control (SPC) dashboards, multi-part comparison tools, and mesh-to-CAD deviation visualization with color-mapped tolerance overlays. When interfaced with third-party metrology software, raw point-cloud and feature data are exported in standardized formats (IGES, STEP, ASCII XYZ, PC-DMIS-compatible DAT), ensuring long-term archival integrity and cross-platform traceability. All measurement sessions include embedded metadata—probe type, calibration certificate ID, environmental logs, and user authentication—supporting GLP/GMP documentation workflows.

Applications

• Automotive: White body dimensional analysis, fixture and gauge verification, subassembly alignment checks, and stamping die wear monitoring.
• Aerospace: Turbine blade profile inspection, wing spar straightness verification, and structural component reverse engineering for legacy part reproduction.
• Energy: Generator stator/rotor concentricity assessment, steam turbine casing flatness mapping, and piping system as-built documentation.
• Mold & Die: Cavity surface fidelity evaluation, shrinkage analysis, and EDM electrode verification prior to machining.
• Heavy Machinery: Large gear housing bore alignment, hydraulic cylinder rod straightness, and welded frame squareness validation.

FAQ

What accuracy class does the Axxis meet under ISO 10360-2?
The Series 100 models (e.g., Axxis6-100/M) achieve MPE_E0,MPE ≤ 0.060 mm over a 2.6 m diameter sphere, satisfying ISO 10360-2 Class 10 requirements.
Can the Axxis perform ISO 5459 datum establishment and iterative alignment?
Yes—MSS and compatible third-party software support iterative best-fit, 3-2-1, and custom datum feature-based alignments per ISO 5459 and ASME Y14.5.
Is thermal compensation active during scanning operations?
Yes—temperature and humidity data are sampled continuously at 1 Hz and applied to both tactile and laser scan data streams in real time.
Does the system support Gage R&R studies per AIAG MSA guidelines?
Yes—built-in repeatability analysis tools and exportable raw coordinate files enable full MSA-compliant Gage R&R execution with external statistical packages.
Are calibration certificates provided with each unit?
Each Axxis ship includes a NIST-traceable factory calibration certificate valid for 12 months; on-site recalibration services are available through API-authorized metrology partners worldwide.