Top 10 Dimensional Measuring Instrument Brand & Manufacturers

What is a Dimensional Measuring Instrument?

A dimensional measuring instrument is a device used to measure the physical dimensions of an object. These dimensions can include length, width, height, diameter, thickness, angles, and other geometric characteristics. Dimensional measuring instruments play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and precision of manufactured products, as well as in research and development, inspection, and many other fields where accurate size determination is essential.

History of the Dimensional Measuring Instrument

• The history of dimensional measurement dates back to ancient times. Early humans used simple tools like body parts (e.g., fingers, hands, feet) and natural objects (e.g., sticks, stones) to make rough estimates of length and size. As civilizations advanced, more precise tools were developed. The ancient Egyptians, for example, used cubit rods to measure length, which was a significant step forward in standardizing measurements.
• With the Industrial Revolution, the need for more accurate and reproducible dimensional measurements grew. Mechanical measuring instruments such as calipers and micrometers were invented. These tools provided a higher level of precision and were used extensively in manufacturing, enabling the production of more complex and interchangeable parts.
• In the 20th century, the development of electronics and optics led to a new era of dimensional measuring instruments. Tools like optical comparators, laser - based measuring devices, and coordinate - measuring machines (CMMs) emerged. These instruments offered even greater accuracy, speed, and versatility, allowing for more complex and high - precision measurements in a wide range of industries.

Purpose of the Dimensional Measuring Instrument

• Quality Control in Manufacturing: Dimensional measuring instruments are fundamental in manufacturing quality control. They ensure that products are manufactured within the specified tolerances. For example, in the automotive industry, precise measurement of engine components, body parts, and other assemblies is crucial to ensure proper fit and function, as well as safety and performance.
• Product Inspection: These instruments are used to inspect incoming raw materials and finished products. In the electronics industry, for instance, they are used to check the dimensions of printed circuit boards (PCBs), components, and enclosures to identify any defects or deviations from the design specifications.
• Research and Development: In R & D, dimensional measuring instruments help in the design and testing of new products and materials. Scientists and engineers can accurately measure the dimensions of prototypes to optimize designs, evaluate the performance of new manufacturing processes, and understand the physical properties of materials.

Principle of the Dimensional Measuring Instrument

• Mechanical Measuring Instruments: Instruments like calipers and micrometers work on mechanical principles. Calipers use a pair of jaws to measure the distance between two opposite sides of an object. The measurement is read from a scale engraved on the instrument. Micrometers, on the other hand, use a precision - threaded spindle. As the spindle is rotated, it moves a measuring anvil towards a fixed anvil, and the distance between them (i.e., the dimension of the object) is measured with high precision using a calibrated scale.
• Optical Measuring Instruments: Optical comparators project an enlarged image of the object onto a screen. The dimensions of the object are then measured by comparing the image with a calibrated scale on the screen. Laser - based measuring devices work on the principle of the time - of - flight of a laser beam. The time it takes for a laser pulse to travel from the emitter to the object and back is measured, and from this, the distance to the object can be calculated.
• Coordinate - Measuring Machines (CMMs): CMMs use a combination of mechanical movement and sensors to measure the coordinates of points on an object's surface. The machine has a movable probe that can be positioned in three - dimensional space. By touching the object's surface at different points, the CMM measures the X, Y, and Z coordinates of those points and then calculates the desired dimensions such as distances, angles, and curvatures using geometric algorithms.

Features of the Dimensional Measuring Instrument

• Accuracy: Dimensional measuring instruments are designed to provide high - accuracy measurements. The accuracy can range from a few micrometers to fractions of a millimeter, depending on the type of instrument and its intended use. High - accuracy instruments are essential for applications where tight tolerances are required, such as in aerospace and precision - machining industries.[!--empirenews.page--]
• Versatility: They can measure a wide variety of geometric features. Some instruments can handle different shapes and sizes of objects and can measure multiple dimensions simultaneously. For example, a CMM can measure complex three - dimensional shapes and provide a comprehensive set of dimensional data.
• Repeatability: A good dimensional measuring instrument has high repeatability, meaning it can produce consistent results when measuring the same dimension multiple times. This is crucial for reliable quality - control and inspection processes.
• Digital Display and Data Management: Many modern instruments have digital displays that provide clear and easy - to - read measurements. Additionally, they often come with data - management capabilities, such as the ability to store and transfer measurement data. This allows for better record - keeping, analysis, and integration with other quality - control or manufacturing systems.
• Non - Contact Measurement (in some cases): Optical and laser - based instruments can perform non - contact measurements. This is beneficial when the object is delicate, has a soft surface, or when it's not possible to physically touch the object being measured. Non - contact measurement also reduces the risk of damaging the object or the instrument itself.

Types of Dimensional Measuring Instrument

• Calipers: There are different types of calipers, including vernier calipers and digital calipers. Vernier calipers use a vernier scale to provide more precise readings than a standard ruler. Digital calipers have an electronic display and can provide more accurate and easier - to - read measurements. They are used for measuring lengths, widths, and diameters of objects and are suitable for a wide range of applications, from woodworking to mechanical engineering.
• Micrometers: Micrometers come in various forms, such as outside micrometers for measuring external dimensions and inside micrometers for internal dimensions. They offer high - precision measurements and are often used in applications where a very accurate determination of a small dimension is required, like in the manufacturing of precision mechanical parts.
• Optical Comparators: These are used to measure the dimensions of objects by projecting an enlarged image. They are particularly useful for inspecting small and complex - shaped objects. Optical comparators can measure lengths, angles, and other geometric features with good accuracy and are commonly used in the tool - and - die and electronics industries.
• Laser - Measuring Devices: These include laser distance meters and laser - based profilometers. Laser distance meters are used to measure the distance between the instrument and an object. Laser - based profilometers can measure the surface profile of an object, providing information about its shape and roughness. They are used in applications such as construction, surveying, and surface - quality inspection.
• Coordinate - Measuring Machines (CMMs): CMMs are highly sophisticated instruments used for three - dimensional measurement. They can be either contact - type (using a physical probe) or non - contact - type (using optical or laser sensors). CMMs are used in industries where high - precision measurement of complex parts is required, such as in aerospace, automotive, and high - tech manufacturing.

Precautions for using the Dimensional Measuring Instrument

• Calibration: Regular calibration of the instrument is essential to ensure accurate measurements. Calibration should be done using appropriate reference standards and following the manufacturer's instructions. Incorrect calibration can lead to inaccurate readings and poor - quality control.
• Object Preparation: The object being measured should be clean and free of debris, rust, or other contaminants. In the case of non - contact instruments, a rough or uneven surface can affect the accuracy of the measurement. For contact - type instruments, the surface should be smooth enough to allow proper contact with the measuring jaws or probe.
• Proper Use and Handling: The instrument should be used according to the manufacturer's instructions. This includes proper handling to avoid damage to the instrument and correct positioning of the instrument on the object to ensure an accurate measurement. For example, in the case of a caliper, the jaws need to be properly aligned with the object's dimension to be measured.
• Environmental Conditions: Some dimensional measuring instruments can be affected by environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and vibration. For high - precision instruments, it's important to use them in a controlled environment or to make appropriate adjustments to account for environmental factors.[!--empirenews.page--]

Things to consider when purchasing the Dimensional Measuring Instrument

• Application Requirements: Determine the specific requirements of your measurement tasks, such as the type of dimensions to be measured, the accuracy needed, the size and shape of the objects, and the measurement environment. Based on these requirements, select a dimensional measuring instrument with the appropriate measurement range, accuracy, and features.
• Type of Dimensional Measuring Instrument: Consider the different types of instruments available, such as calipers, micrometers, optical comparators, laser - based devices, or CMMs. Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each type for your application. For example, if you need to measure the internal diameter of a small hole, an inside micrometer might be a better choice than a caliper.
• Performance Characteristics: Look at the performance parameters of the instrument, such as the accuracy, resolution (the smallest change in dimension that can be detected), repeatability, and the speed of measurement. These characteristics should match the demands of your application to ensure efficient and reliable measurement.
• Cost and Budget: Establish a budget for the dimensional measuring instrument purchase. The cost can vary significantly depending on the type, performance, and brand of the instrument. Consider not only the initial purchase price but also the long - term costs such as calibration, maintenance, and potential replacement of parts. Sometimes, a more expensive instrument with better performance and reliability may be a more cost - effective choice in the long run.
• Manufacturer Support and Training: Select a reputable manufacturer that provides good technical support and training. Operating and using a dimensional measuring instrument correctly may require some technical knowledge, and the manufacturer should offer resources such as user manuals, online tutorials, and customer support to help you get the most out of the instrument.

Terms of the Dimensional Measuring Instrument

• Tolerance: The allowable deviation from a specified dimension. In manufacturing, products are designed with specific tolerances, and dimensional measuring instruments are used to ensure that the actual dimensions of the parts fall within these tolerances.
• Resolution: The smallest increment of measurement that the instrument can detect and display. A higher resolution means more precise measurements.
• Contact - Type Measurement: A measurement method where the instrument physically touches the object being measured, such as with calipers or CMM probes. This method can provide accurate measurements but may damage delicate objects or affect the measurement if the contact force is not properly controlled.
• Non - Contact - Type Measurement: A measurement method where the instrument does not physically touch the object, such as with optical or laser - based instruments. This method is useful for measuring delicate or hard - to - touch objects and can provide quick measurements over a range of distances.
• Coordinate Measurement: The process of determining the three - dimensional coordinates (X, Y, Z) of points on an object's surface. Coordinate - measuring machines are specifically designed for this purpose and can calculate various geometric dimensions from the measured coordinates.