Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence RA8-7 7-Axis Absolute Arm Coordinate Measuring Machine

Overview

The Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence RA8-7 is a high-performance, portable 7-axis absolute arm coordinate measuring machine engineered for precision geometric metrology in dynamic industrial environments. Unlike traditional bridge or gantry CMMs, the RA8-7 employs a kinematic articulated-arm architecture with seven degrees of freedom and integrated absolute rotary encoders—enabling immediate operational readiness without homing or thermal stabilization. Its measurement principle relies on real-time angular position tracking of each joint via high-resolution optical absolute encoders, combined with calibrated forward kinematics to compute the spatial coordinates of the probe tip or laser scanner origin within a user-defined reference frame. Designed for both shop-floor and field applications—including aerospace component verification, automotive body-in-white inspection, tooling validation, and reverse engineering—the RA8-7 bridges the gap between laboratory-grade accuracy and rugged portability. The system complies with ISO 10360-12 for articulated arm CMMs and, when configured with the RS5 laser scanner, supports ISO 10360-8 Annex D for volumetric performance assessment under scanning conditions.

Key Features

• 7-axis absolute encoder architecture: Eliminates need for power-up homing or warm-up periods; delivers repeatable positioning from cold start.
• Modular wrist assembly with three interchangeable handle options: Optimized for accessibility in confined geometries and ergonomic operation across extended sessions.
• Integrated wrist-mounted LCD display: Provides real-time access to system status, probe configuration, measurement results, and calibration prompts—without requiring external computing hardware.
• Carbon fiber arm construction: Delivers exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio, minimizing thermal drift and mechanical hysteresis while maintaining structural integrity under repeated handling.
• RS5 high-speed laser line scanner (optional): Factory-integrated, tool-changeable unit supporting up to 200,000 points/sec; no recalibration required after attachment/detachment.
• HP-L-20.8 external laser scanner compatibility: Enables extended-field-of-view scanning for large-part digitization without sacrificing point-cloud density.
• HomeDock™ and SmartLock™ safety systems: Passive mechanical docking station and magnetic locking interface protect the probe tip during transport and storage.
• Multi-modal feedback system: Visual (LED indicators), auditory (programmable tones), and haptic (vibration alerts) cues enhance operator awareness in noisy or visually obstructed workspaces.
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity: Enables wireless synchronization with mobile devices and remote diagnostics without compromising data security or real-time latency.
• Redesigned shock-absorbing transit case: Certified for air freight compliance; accommodates full system + accessories with minimal footprint and rapid deployment capability.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RA8-7 accommodates a broad spectrum of part sizes—from small machined components (<50 mm) to large assemblies exceeding 3 meters in span—when used with appropriate probe configurations and environmental controls. It supports contact probing (via tactile trigger probes), non-contact laser scanning, and hybrid workflows combining both modalities in a single setup. The system meets ISO 10360-12 requirements for articulated arm CMMs and, when paired with the RS5 scanner, satisfies ISO 10360-8 Annex D for scanning performance verification. All firmware and embedded control logic are designed to support audit-ready operation per ISO 9001, AS9100, and IATF 16949 quality management frameworks. Data export formats include ASCII, CSV, IGES, STEP AP214, and native Hexagon PC-DMIS-compatible .PRT files—ensuring interoperability with downstream CAD/CAM and PLM platforms.

Software & Data Management

The RA8-7 operates natively with Hexagon’s PC-DMIS software suite, offering full GD&T evaluation, statistical process control (SPC) charting, and automated report generation compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic record/electronic signature requirements. Audit trails log all measurement events—including probe changes, calibration updates, operator login/logout, and parameter modifications—with timestamped, immutable entries. Optional integration with Hexagon’s Metrology Portal enables secure cloud-based data archival, cross-site comparison analytics, and role-based access control aligned with GLP/GMP documentation standards. Raw point cloud data is stored in industry-standard .STL and .PLY formats, supporting third-party mesh processing tools such as Geomagic Control X and PolyWorks Inspector.

Applications

• Aerospace: Inspection of turbine blades, wing ribs, and composite layup tooling using GD&T-compliant reporting.
• Automotive: Body-in-white gap-and-flush analysis, stamping die verification, and prototype dimensional validation.
• Energy: Turbine casing alignment checks, wind blade surface deviation mapping, and weld seam profiling.
• Medical device manufacturing: Dimensional verification of orthopedic implants and surgical instrument assemblies.
• Education & research labs: Teaching kinematic modeling, metrology traceability principles, and hands-on CMM programming fundamentals.

FAQ

Does the RA8-7 require periodic recalibration?
Yes—while absolute encoders eliminate daily homing, annual traceable calibration against certified artifacts (e.g., step gauges, sphere plates) is recommended per ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines to maintain stated uncertainty budgets.
Can the RA8-7 be used in uncontrolled ambient environments?
It is rated for operation between 10–40 °C; however, optimal volumetric accuracy is achieved within ±1 °C of 20 °C. For non-climate-controlled settings, thermal compensation algorithms and material-specific expansion coefficients must be applied in software.
Is PC-DMIS licensing included with the RA8-7 purchase?
A base license for PC-DMIS Touch is bundled; advanced modules (e.g., GD&T, SPC, CAD-based inspection) require separate subscription or perpetual licensing.
What is the warranty coverage for the RA8-7 system?
Hexagon provides a standard 24-month limited warranty covering parts and labor for defects in materials and workmanship, excluding consumables and accidental damage.
How does the RA8-7 compare to the predecessor RA7 model?
The RA8-7 retains all RA7 core functionalities while introducing enhanced encoder resolution, improved carbon fiber rigidity, wrist-mounted LCD interface, expanded Bluetooth capabilities, and updated HomeDock/SmartLock mechanical protection systems.