Investigation on performance verification of coordinate measuring systems with optical distance sensors

The paper presents an investigation on procedures and artefacts for testing the metrological performances of coordinate measuring systems equipped with optical distance sensors. The lack of internationally recognised standards for testing optical coordinate measuring systems is one of the reasons why users have difficulties in comparing different measuring systems and in evaluating the accuracy of optical measurements. The work is aimed at contributing to the standardization of testing methods. It includes an experimental examination of performance verification procedures proposed in the German guideline VDI/VDE 2617-6.2: 2005, which is considered a fundamental document for the development of future ISO standards on testing of coordinate measuring systems with optical distance sensors. On the basis of specific experimental results, the main problems and limitations arising in the implementation of testing procedures are analyzed and further developments are proposed.