Hexagon Metrology released the ROMER Absolute Arm 1.2m portable coordinate measuring machine. The portable measuring arm uses technology from the ROMER Absolute Arm to provide high-accuracy 3D measurement in a 1.2m volume. It is reportedly ideal for use within confined spaces, including inside a machining center for dimensional control of molds, parts, tooling, castings, and more. The ROMER Absolute Arm 1.2m streamlines the measurement process as a viable alternative to a range of manual tools such as height gages, dial calipers, bore gages, gage blocks, micrometers, and dial indicators.

To simplify set-ups, a counterweight system enables the ROMER Absolute Arm 1.2m to be used without mountings on any surface. Absolute encoders, a standard feature on the Absolute Arm line, eliminate complicated referencing procedures. The operator can start measuring with merely the flip of a switch. ROMER Absolute Arm feature packs allow wireless battery-powered operation for maximum portability on the shop-floor, while an integrated camera and worklight facilitate inspections in harsh environments.

"The ROMER Absolute Arm 1.2m is our most accurate portable arm CMM to date. It is a convenient way to take high-tolerance 3D measurements on the shop-floor within confined spaces," said Stephan Amann, product line manager at Hexagon Metrology. "It is an easy-to-use switch on and go system that quickly and accurately performs tasks that are usually carried out manually. It is perfect for on-machine verification, fixture positioning or in-process inspection and is an excellent complement to a stationary CMM."

A replacement for the ROMER MultiGage, the ROMER Absolute Arm 1.2m is available in two models and can be certified to ISO 10360-2 or B89.4.22. Usability features include automatic probe recognition to ensure repeatable results for different probes without calibration and haptic feedback to alert users if an axis limit is reached, eliminating the risk of bad measurements. The ROMER Absolute Arm 1.2m is also compatible with all major metrology software packages including PC-DMIS Touch, the revolutionary measurement software that uses high-resolution Multi-Touch display technology on a tablet PC.