Inspection point placement and path planning algorithms for automatic coordinate measuring machine inspection

This paper discusses development of automatic inspection point placement and path planning methods, for use in the integration of computer-aided design with coordinate measuring machine inspection. The proposed system demonstrates that optimal collision-free inspection paths can be efficiently generated for geometrically complex parts consisting of multiple intersecting features. This is achieved by using iterative subdivision of surfaces for point placement coupled with, efficient three-dimensional collision avoidance and path planning. This planning module is an integral part of an overall inspection planner to fully automate rapid and reliable inspection using computer-controlled coordinate measuring machines. The paper discusses the structures and algorithms used, and presents experimental results.