Hexagon Metrology GLORY Series Bridge Coordinate Measuring Machine

Overview

The Hexagon Metrology GLORY Series is a next-generation bridge-type coordinate measuring machine (CMM) engineered for high-precision geometric metrology in industrial production and quality assurance environments. Built upon Hexagon’s decades of expertise in mobile bridge architecture and advanced kinematic design, the GLORY platform integrates patented mechanical innovations—including TRICISION triangular beam topology, monolithic dovetail guideways, and a fully hardened aluminum alloy frame—with state-of-the-art motion control and multi-sensor fusion capabilities. Its measurement principle relies on calibrated Cartesian displacement sensing via high-resolution Heidenhain linear encoders, combined with real-time thermal compensation algorithms aligned to ISO 10360 and VDI/VDE 2617 standards. Designed for operation in controlled metrology labs (18–22 °C) and near-production environments, the GLORY delivers traceable dimensional verification of complex parts—ranging from machined engine components to thin-walled aerospace structures—with volumetric accuracy starting at 1.6 µm and dynamic repeatability validated under ISO 10360-2 conditions.

Key Features

• TRICISION Triangular Bridge Architecture: Optimized structural stiffness-to-mass ratio ensures minimal deflection under acceleration, delivering superior long-term stability and enhanced dynamic performance during high-speed probing or scanning.
• Monolithic Hard-Anodized Aluminum Frame: Lightweight yet thermally stable construction with surface-hardened critical load-bearing surfaces; provides inherent damping and consistent thermal expansion behavior across ambient fluctuations.
• Integrated Dovetail Guideways: Precision-ground, three-face closed-loop guideways eliminate adhesive-bonded joints—reducing long-term drift and improving repeatable positioning accuracy over extended service life.
• Patented Pneumatic Counterbalance System: Enables smooth, low-friction Z-axis motion without mechanical interference between drive train and probe head, maintaining axial positioning fidelity at speeds up to 520 mm/s.
• FLY2 Path Optimization Engine: Dynamically recalculates probe trajectory in real time to minimize idle motion and dwell time—increasing throughput by ≥10% compared to conventional CMM path planning.
• SCAN PILOT Adaptive Scanning: Employs predictive contour modeling to maintain constant probe-to-surface distance during high-velocity scanning of unknown geometries, step edges, and discontinuous surfaces.
• MessageLight Status Indicator: Multi-color LED array mounted on the Z-carrier enables remote visual monitoring of machine state (e.g., measuring, idle, error), supporting lean workflow management and preventive maintenance scheduling.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The GLORY accommodates workpieces from small precision components (e.g., connectors, gears, medical implants) to large-scale assemblies (e.g., automotive body panels, turbine housings), with maximum part weight support determined by optional granite table configurations. It supports ISO/IEC 17025-compliant calibration protocols and meets essential requirements of ISO 9001, AS9100, and IATF 16949 quality management systems. All hardware and firmware are designed to comply with CE marking directives (EMC 2014/30/EU, Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC), and the system architecture supports audit-ready data integrity per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when deployed with PC-DMIS Enterprise Edition and enabled electronic signature workflows.

Software & Data Management

The GLORY operates natively with PC-DMIS—the industry-standard metrology software platform certified to ISO 15530-3 for uncertainty evaluation and compatible with GD&T symbol libraries per ASME Y14.5 and ISO 1101. It enables seamless bidirectional integration with CAD systems (Siemens NX, CATIA, SolidWorks), MES platforms (Rockwell FactoryTalk, Siemens Opcenter), and enterprise QMS solutions (ETQ Reliance, MasterControl). Embedded data logging captures full metrology context—including environmental sensor readings (temperature, humidity, air pressure), probe calibration history, and operator metadata—ensuring full traceability. Optional cloud-enabled SmartLink modules facilitate remote diagnostics, predictive maintenance alerts, and centralized fleet analytics across distributed manufacturing sites.

Applications

The GLORY serves as a foundational metrology node across Tier-1 and Tier-2 supplier networks in automotive and aerospace sectors, performing first-article inspection (FAI), statistical process control (SPC) sampling, tool certification, and reverse engineering validation. Its hybrid sensor capability allows concurrent use of tactile probes (for GD&T compliance checks on machined features), laser line scanners (for rapid sheet-metal contour capture), and vision sensors (for non-contact measurement of fragile or soft-surface components such as elastomeric gaskets or PCBs). In mold-making applications, it verifies cavity geometry, draft angles, and surface finish parameters—directly feeding into CAM toolpath correction loops. For electronics manufacturers, it verifies BGA coplanarity, connector pin alignment, and housing dimensional conformity—supporting IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001 conformance reporting.

FAQ

What environmental conditions are required for optimal GLORY performance?
The GLORY is specified for operation within a temperature-controlled environment of 18–22 °C ±0.5 °C/hour, with relative humidity between 40–60% RH and vibration isolation compliant with ISO 230-2 Annex A.
Does the GLORY support automated integration into factory automation systems?
Yes—it features standardized Ethernet/IP and OPC UA interfaces, enabling plug-and-play connectivity with PLCs, robotic loaders, and MES systems. Modular automation kits include part-present detection, gripper synchronization, and safety-rated door interlocks.
Can PC-DMIS generate AS9102 First Article Inspection reports?
Yes—PC-DMIS FAI module automates report generation per AS9102 Rev D, including characteristic mapping, measurement data tables, deviation summaries, and digital signature workflows compliant with FAA and EASA requirements.
Is thermal compensation included as standard functionality?
Yes—real-time temperature compensation is embedded in the controller firmware using dual-point thermal sensors (on bridge and granite base), aligned with ISO 10360-3 Annex B methodologies.
What is the warranty coverage and service response commitment?
Hexagon offers a standard 24-month comprehensive warranty covering parts, labor, and on-site calibration validation, with optional extended service agreements including predictive maintenance and annual uncertainty reassessment per ISO/IEC 17025.