Probe Geometry strategy

The Probe Geometry strategy creates a probing operation to measure and verify critical features, such as holes, bosses, surfaces, walls, channels, and corners, using probing cycles (macros) on the CNC machine. The strategy also supports the use of probe paths, which enable you to inspect cylindrical surfaces, such as holes and bosses, and planar surfaces in various orientations not possible with probing cycles. Inspection results can be imported from a machine-generated results file or imported in real-time using a live connection between Fusion and the machine.

Example of a Probe Geometry operation for a circular boss using a probing cycle.

You can use the strategy to check features against specified tolerances to help catch any variations and perform actions based on the results. If measurements exceed the acceptable tolerances, the CNC machine can be instructed to stop with a message.

If using a probing cycle, the tool wear stored in the machine-tool controller can be updated to compensate for tool deflection and reduced diameter to improve the accuracy of future machining operations.

If using a probe path instead of a probing cycle, the strategy provides the ability to fit circles and planes to determine their circularity and flatness. When fitting geometric features, you can set feature tolerances specific to the selected surface type.

For a circle, you can set the following tolerances:

• Position defines the allowable deviation of the circle’s center from its intended position.
• Upper diameter and lower diameter define an acceptable range for the circle’s diameter.
• Form (circularity) defines the allowable deviation of the actual shape of the circle from a perfect circle.

For a plane, you can set the following tolerances:

• Normal defines the maximum allowable tilt or angle deviation of the surface from being perfectly perpendicular.
• Form (flatness) defines the acceptable variation in the overall flatness of the surface.