NAME=95 % Confidence Factor
Given a Gaussian distribution (or filter) of errors, an adequate number of hits, and the resulting standard deviation, you can be 95% confident that the actual dimension will be less than the measured value.
NAME=AB angles
The position of these A and B axes determine the angles a probe will use during tip calibration. These are also referred to as AB positions. * A is the vertical wrist angle. A = 0 when the tip is pointing straight down and it is normal to the probe. * B is the rotation angle. B = 0 will vary according to machine type and brand and also probe head type.
NAME=Active Tip
The active tip refers to the part of the probe (also referred to as the stylus) that is currently loaded for use. Several tips can be considered active at a time and are referenced in the Active tip list.
NAME=Active Tool
This refers to the calibration tool that is used to calibrate the active tip. See also Tool.
NAME=ACTL
This means Actual, meaning the "measured" size or location information as opposed to the "theoretical" size or location information.
NAME=Actual Point (APT)
Out of the multiple readings that the controller takes during the probing cycle, the Actual Point is the one that is returned from the controller.
NAME=Alignment Block
This is a section of part program code in the Edit window beginning with the "Label = ALIGNMENT/START,..." command line and continuing to the "ALIGNMENT/END" command line.
NAME=Alignment offset
This is the distance of the part from the X, Y, and Z (0, 0, 0) location.
NAME=Alignment Rotation Feature
This Rotate button (found in Alignment dialog box) allows you to rotate the part about a particular axis. This is used for creating alignments.
NAME=Analog Probe
This type of probe is an electronic device capable of performing a continuous contact scan of a part's surface without having to leave the part's surface in order to record measurement data. When not performing scans, the probe functions similar to a Touch Trigger Probe (TTP).
NAME=Anti-aliasing
A technique used in computer software to smooth jagged edges that appear on curved or diagonal lines drawn on a computer screen.
NAME=Arguments
These are conditions used in a subroutine or equation, such as an IF THEN statement. IF a certain argument (or condition) is met THEN a certain result follows.
NAME=Assignment
Assignment is the process of giving the value of an operation, set of operations, or a real number to a variable and is accomplished by use of the assignment operator (=). The assignment operator is automatically created when the assignment option is selected (from the menu bar, select the Assignment option).
NAME=Asterisk (*) Meta-Character
The asterisk (*) meta-character will match, or take the place, of any character or characters in a search.
NAME=Axes
This is plural for axis. See Axis.
NAME=Axis
An axis is one of the reference lines in a system of coordinates. The various axes (plural for axis) are XPLUS, XMINUS, YPLUS, YMINUS, ZPLUS, and ZMINUS. An axis can also be defined as the derived median line along the length of a cylinder, cone, slot, or ellipse.
NAME=Axis Counters
These are digital readout hardware devices connected to your machine that give a readout of the machine's axes X, Y, and Z positions.
NAME=Ball Tip
Tip shaped as a small ball.
NAME=Baricenter
The center of gravity for a hole of any shape.
NAME=Basic Script
A basic script is a series of basic commands written in the programming language BASIC.
NAME=Baud
This is the rate at which data can be transmitted or received by a computer. This is usually defined as a number of bits per second (bps).
NAME=Bend Radius
This is essentially an outside cylinder (pin) measurement for sheetmetal. It measures the center location and size.
NAME=Best Fit
This is a mathematical process that calculates feature or alignment parameters by minimizing certain error conditions between measured and theoretical points or features.
NAME=Best Guess Algorithms
These are mathematical calculations that PC-DMIS uses to determine what feature type is being measured based on the number of hits taken. Based on the results of the calculations, PC-DMIS makes its best guess to determine the feature type. Incorrect guesses can be overridden using the Override command on the main menu.
NAME=Block Edit
This refers to moving a portion of text from one area of the Edit window to another area.
NAME=Boss
A "boss" is usually an external cone or cylinder that has a flat top to it that a bolt may thread into. Sometimes this is also termed as a "Stud".
NAME=Boundary Crossings
This numerical value (used in the Number of Boundary Crossings box) tells PC-DMIS how many times the probe's BallCenter can cross the given condition's surface (planar, spherical, cylindrical) before stopping a given scan. Once the BallCenter crosses the condition's surface for the nth time (where n = the number entered), then the scan stops.
NAME=Boundary Plane
The Boundary Plane is created perpendicular to the Boundary Plane Vector with the same XYZ coordinates as the start point of the scan. The Boundary Plane is often used to determine when to stop a scan by indicating a maximum number of times the scan may cross the boundary plane.
NAME=Boundary Plane Vector
The Boundary Plane Vector is determined initially by the direction from the start point of a scan to the direction point of the scan.
NAME=Boundary Points
These are sample points which will determine the limits of the area to be contained within a scanned line or surface.
NAME=Box Selecting
Box selecting is a function within the Graphic Display area that allows you to draw a box with the mouse around a group of features, highlighting those features in a Feature ID list box.
NAME=Box Tolerancing
A variation of Box Selecting. Box Tolerancing can be performed with an open Dimension dialog window and Box Selecting a group of measured features. The tolerance options in the Dimension Dialog box can then be used to apply the same tolerances to all of the features that are selected.
NAME=Branching
Branching is the path (not the probe path but the logical path or flow that an executing part program takes) followed during execution of a part program which may be variable as a result of some logical statement, such as IF, ELSEIF, ELSE, DO, and WHILE, that causes the part program to execute differently depending on the value of some input or variable that is computed or measured in the part program.
NAME=CAD Coordinates
The position, expressed as X, Y, and Z values, of a feature in a CAD file.
NAME=CAD file
A CAD file is a graphical image file created using Computer Aided Drafting which contains information about a part or parts and their features' dimensions, orientations, and sizes. These files are usually saved in one of the following formats: IGES, DFX, DES, STEP, and XZYIJK.
NAME=Cal Wrist
Abbreviation for Calibrate Wrist. Used to calculate the probe head offsets for each wrist position that is used.
NAME=Calculate Boundary
Abbreviation for Calculate Boundary Points. Used with Perimeter Scans to determine the limits of travel during the scanning operation.
NAME=Calibration
This process simply tells PC-DMIS the location and diameter of the probe tip. It is also referred to as "qualification".
NAME=Calibration Tool
A Calibration Tool is a calibrated artifact used to qualify a probe tip. It is normally a precision tooling ball. It is also known as a "Qualification Tool".
NAME=Capability
This is a calculated number based on measured data and the tolerances (USL and LSL). It tells you how well a process can produce parts with respect to the specified tolerances.
NAME=Capability in Equation Form
It is the minimum between: (USL-XBarBar)/(3*sigma) and: (XBarBar - LSL)/(3*sigma). Where XBarBar is the mean of the subgroup's means for the data in consideration. In order for the process to be labeled as "capable", the calculated capability (above equation) must be greater than the user entered capability threshold. If a process is not capable it is considered "incapable".
NAME=Capability Threshold
This is the number by which the process's capability is determined. The capability and the capability threshold are two different values.
NAME=Car Body Alignment
Most Car Body (and Aircraft) alignments have a coordinate system that is off in space. In the case of a car, it is usually down in the lower center of the car, under the instrument panel. Dimensioning of features takes place from that point.
NAME=CD
Collision Detection.
NAME=Centroid
The center most point of a feature.
NAME=Characteristic Point
This is a measurement used by the NC-100 video probe that is essentially an Angle Point measurement. It has two measurement types.1) Measures a point at the intersection of two surfaces (this measurement type is most like an angle point).2) Measures two points, one on each surface at a specified distance from the intersection.
NAME=Child
A 'child' is a command that is dependent upon another command in order to function.
NAME=Circ Move
Circular Move.
NAME=ClearP
An abbreviation for Clearance Plane. It is also a command entered in the Edit window to define the plane the probe must clear to avoid collision with the part.
NAME=Cmk
Machine capability process. This value is used to determine how well a given process can match the specification limits for the process.
NAME=CMM
Coordinate Measuring Machine.
NAME=Collision Tolerance
Indicates a measurable value from the surface of the CAD data. It is designed to alert you to any collisions between the probe and part.
NAME=Column locator
Another term for "Gripper".
NAME=Column passing lane
The column passing lane is a small corridor behind the usable fixture volume where columns are moved from one arm to the other and pulled from the rack for placement on the machine table.
NAME=Comm
Communications port.
NAME=Continuous Contact Scanning
A Continuous Contact Scan can be performed only when using either an analog probe, hard probe, or some laser probes and optical probes. In this type of scan the probe tip is brought in contact with the surface of a part and moved in a linear fashion without leaving the surface of the part until the scan or a portion of the scan is complete.
NAME=Controller
Every CMM has a controller. The controller drives the servos to move the machine, reads the scales to keep track of the position, interfaces to the actual probe, etc.  A given CMM (or machine) can any one of several different types of controllers.
NAME=Coordinate System
A coordinate system consists of an origin and X,Y, and Z axes.
NAME=Coplanar
Coplanar means that features reside in the same plane.
NAME=Cpk
Process capability index. This value is used to determine how well a given process can match the specification limits for the process.
NAME=CTE
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion
NAME=Cut Plane
The Cut Plane is a theoretical plane which is created perpendicular to the Cut Plane Vector with the same XYZ coordinates as the start point of the scan. The Cut Plane is used to enable a scan to be created with all points being at the same level relative to the Cut Plane Vector.
NAME=Cut Plane Vector
The cut plane vector is the cross product of the initial touch vector and the line between the start and end boundary points on scans. If there is no end point, then the line between the start and direction point is used.
NAME=CutVec (Cut Vector)
See Cut Plane Vector.
NAME=DataPage
DataPage(tm) is a statistical processing software package which links seamlessly with PC-DMIS.
NAME=Datum
A datum is an "imaginary" and "perfect" user-defined feature used as a reference point from which to measure other features on a part.
NAME=Datum Reference Frame
A datum reference frame is an alignment created from the current set of datums. It is defined by the order of your A, B, C, etc. datums.
NAME=DCC
Direct Computer Control.
NAME=DCC Mode
This mode puts the Coordinate Measuring Machine into Direct Computer Control (or DCC). With this mode turned on, the computer is in control of many CMM functions.
NAME=DCI
Direct CAD Interface
NAME=DCT
Direct CAD Translator
NAME=DD
Diameter of Datum.
NAME=Delimiter
The verb, to delimit, simply means to separate pieces of information. A delimiter then is a symbol that separates distinct pieces of information. In written English for example, the period, question mark, and exclamation mark are delimiters that delimit (or separate) the sentences.
NAME=Delta
Used to indicate an option where change or an amount of change is expected to occur.
NAME=Dependent curve
A Dependent curve is dependent on the feature set it was created from. This means if the feature set is changed later on, then the constructed curve may also change.
NAME=Dependent surface
A Dependent surface is dependent on the feature set it was created from. This means if the feature set is changed later on, then the constructed surface may also change.
NAME=Depth
This defines the distance below the surface of a part where the measurement will be taken.
NAME=DES
If importing a DES file type, this stands for "Data Exchange Standard". If working with statistical databases, DES stands for "Data Evaluation System".
NAME=DF
Diameter of Feature.
NAME=Diameter
The maximum chord length of a circle, cylinder, or sphere. In the case of PC-DMIS, the chord length will be applied to a best fit feature unless specified otherwise. Imagine a round feature with a line passing through the center of it. The length of this segment is referred to as the diameter. It is sometimes referred to as the thickness or width of the feature.
NAME=DIMS
Dimensional Inspection Measurement System file format. This is the format of the PC-DMIS part program files.
NAME=Direction Point
The Direction Point of a scan sets the direction of the scan. The scan will continue from the Start Point heading in the direction of the Direction Point until it reaches the End Point.
NAME=Disk Tip
Tip shaped as a small disk.
NAME=DRO
Digital Read Out.
NAME=DXF
Drawing Interchange File.
NAME=Element
An element is simply another name for a feature.
NAME=ELM1
This abbreviation stands for Element 1.
NAME=ELM2
This abbreviation stands for Element 2.
NAME=ELOGO.DAT
This data file is used to format the Edit Report's footer. It is only used on the very last page of the Edit Report.
NAME=End Ang
Ending Angle.
NAME=End effector
An artifact that is placed against the part to hold it stationary in at least one axis. Typically this is a sphere with a defined diameter. Spheres are used because they will only contact the part at a single location. Other types of end effectors can be pins (for mating holes), cylinders for locating edges, and specialty pieces specifically tailored to the part being fixtured.
NAME=End Point
This is the Ending Point of a scan. When the scan execution reaches this point it stops.
NAME=End Touch Vector
The compensation vector for the last point of a scan.
NAME=End-of-ram
This term refers to the XYZ coordinates at the end of the arm (or ram) only, not figuring in the XYZ coordinates of the probe tip.
NAME=EndVec (End Vector)
See End Touch Vector.
NAME=Error Map
All CMM's are constructed with inherent inaccuracies. After construction, most CMM manufacturers laser verify their machines to record these inaccuracies. These errors are then stored electronically in a computer file (called abcomp.dat) which can be accessed by PC-DMIS to enhance the accuracy of the CMM. In essence, the computer file is an Error Map of the CMM. See Volumetric Compensation.
NAME=Export
The process of converting the drawing information contained in a PC-DMIS part program to a CAD standard output file such as IGES.
NAME=Expression
An expression is a user defined condition used with PC-DMIS'S flow control commands. If the condition is met or not, you can determine what action PC-DMIS takes.
NAME=Extrude
When a probe is moved from one location to another, geometric volume is created through the move. The term "extrude" is used to define the volume of space that a probe will be in as it moves from one point to the next. The volume is then checked for collision with the part or table.
NAME=Faro Arm
This refers to the articulating arm CMM produced by Faro Technologies, Inc.
NAME=Feature Height
The distance from the base to the top (center ) of the feature.
NAME=Feature Length
The measured value along its greatest dimension.
NAME=Feature Pointer
A Feature Pointer is a variable type that works directly with an existing feature, providing direct access to that feature. For example, the statement ASSIGN/V1 = CIR1 would create a feature pointer to the feature CIR1 and assign it to variable V1. V1 could then be used to access CIR1. CIR1.X would access the measured x component of the centroid of CIR1.
NAME=Feature Set
A Feature Set is a collection of previously measured or created elements into one constructed element. The items making up the Feature Set do not necessarily have to be of the same feature type.
NAME=Feature Width
The measurement of a feature from side to side. The measured value along a feature's shortest dimension.
NAME=FILE I / O
This menu option stands for File Input / Output. Data can be Input (written) to or Output (read ) from these files.
NAME=FindNoms
Find Nominal Values. When this option is selected from the Nominals option of a scan dialog, PC-DMIS will pierce the closest selected CAD surface in an attempt to gather the theoretical CAD data for each scanned data point. This information will then be used to calculate the deviation of each point.
NAME=Fixed Delta
An option for manual scanning with a hard probe where data points will only be gathered at specific, or 'fixed,' increments between each other.
NAME=Fixed probe
A fixed probe is synonymous with a "hard probe". It is a probe that doesn't use a touch trigger.
NAME=Flat feature type
Flat feature types are planar features. See Flat features.
NAME=Flat features
Flat features are defined as points, planes, and lines. See Flat feature type.
NAME=Flat Guess
This is a mode of operation utilized when using a hard probe to set order of precedence for the software to guess the type of feature being measured. Flat Guess will attempt to solve for a plane before a circle, cylinder, cone, or sphere. See also Round Guess and Guess Mode.
NAME=Floating toolbar
A floating toolbar is a toolbar that is able to be moved out of its set position and allowed to "float" at a desired location on the screen.
NAME=Flow Control
This refers to options within the software that allow you to control the direction of the part program.
NAME=Fly Mode
This is an option referring to how PC-DMIS will move the probe around the part during the measurement process. To be utilized, the CMM must have a DCC controller capable of Fly Mode operation.
NAME=FOV
Field of Vision. This refers to what you can see through the eye of a camera, an integral portion of video probes.
NAME=Gap & Flush
GAP = Distance (in the same plane) between two mating sheet metal parts. FLUSH = Height difference between two mating sheet metal parts. For example, if you're looking at a top view of an automobile, the distance between a car's fender and hood is the gap (distance between the two parts in one plane). If you look at a side view of the car the flush for the fender and the hood would be the height difference.
NAME=Gaussian Filter
See 95% Confidence factor.
NAME=GD&T
Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing. This is a standardized, international language that uses a recognized symbology to communicate a part's design specifications.
NAME=Geometries
Geometries are features or geometrical shapes such as lines, circles, etc.
NAME=Global setting
A global setting is a statement or command that is added to the part program that remains in effect for the remainder of the part program unless it is changed by another modal command.
NAME=Gripper
This device, used with flexible fixturing, is placed on the end of the ram. It "grips" (or holds) columns in order to either remove them from their rack and position them on the worktable, or remove them from the worktable and place them back in their rack. The gripper also uses air injectors (much like air hockey) to lift the column off of the worktable.
NAME=Guess Mode
When a fixed probe is used, PC-DMIS can't determine the type of feature that is being measured. Guess mode allows you to indicate whether the feature is flat or round reducing the possibility of an incorrect guess.
NAME=Hard probe
A hard probe is a probe without a touch trigger or removable stylus.
NAME=HEADER.DAT
This data file is used to provide formatting information for the Edit Report's headers. This includes all the pages after the first page.
NAME=High Point Feature
A High Point Feature is the type of feature created when using the High Point option of Auto Features. (From the main menu Access the Auto Features dialog box and then select the High Point tab) The High Point is the point along a specific vector through a surface which has no other point at a higher distance along that vector when compared to the centroid of the surface.
NAME=Hit
Contacting the stylus tip with the part. Also known as probing.
NAME=Hit Buffer
The hit buffer stores probe hits before you create a feature from those hits. The stored hits can be deleted by pressing the ALT and '-' (minus) key combination.
NAME=Hit Retract
This number is a user specified distance which tells the probe at what point to speed up again, after retracting from a probe hit on a part.
NAME=Home position
This XYZ position is the 0,0,0 machine location that the probe moves to each time the machine is powered on or off.
NAME=I/O channels
A numbered device in the controller that allows you to set the state to 1 or 0. Compatible devices can then be connected to each channel. One common example is to connect one channel to an air supply for an external device. Setting the channel to 1 turns on the air and setting it to 0 turns it off.
NAME=ID
Identification or Identity. Also Label or Feature Name.
NAME=IGES
International Graphics Exchange Specification file format.
NAME=Import
The process of retrieving a CAD file from a database and processing it into the PC-DMIS part program.
NAME=Indent
A value set in from the edge of the feature (to the point location).
NAME=Independent curve
An Independent curve no longer depends on the feature set that was used to create it. If the feature set changes, the independent curve will not change.
NAME=Independent surface
An Independent surface no longer depends on the feature set that was used to create it. If the feature set changes, the independent surface will not change.
NAME=Indexable
The ability of the probe wrist to be positioned at certain predefined (indexed) angles. These positions are mechanically set at regular increments on indexing probe heads. These indexes can vary from 15 to less the 0.1. When a wrist is indexable it means that it has the capability of being moved to different positions within the increments available on that specific wrist.
NAME=Indirection
The value of the variable pointed to by the given variable.
NAME=Init Sample Hits
The initial sample hits are taken when learning a particular feature. Sample hits are used to determine the surface vector into which the measured feature projects.
NAME=Initial Touch Vector
The compensation vector for the start point of a scan.
NAME=InitVec (Initial Vector)
See Initial Touch Vector.
NAME=INTOF
Intersection of the given feature.
NAME=Iterative Alignment
This alignment takes a number of points which approximates the ideal (or nominal). From the points, a mathematical computation repeatedly adjusts or tries to approximate the alignment to the nominal. In a sense, it does a "best fit" computation with the points.
NAME=Kinematic Mount
A kinematic mount refers to a set of usually 3 precision tooling balls, receivers for the balls, and a fastening device which is used to provide a highly repeatable connection point for styli, probes, or probe heads. Kinematic mounts are frequently found on devices which may employ an automatic changer and will preclude the need for requalification.
NAME=Knot
A knot is a part of the mathematical definition of a spline. They are associated with the control points of a spline and help to define the shape of the spline.
NAME=Learn Mode
This term is used to describe the state of PC-DMIS when creating or appending to a part program's instructions in the Edit window.
NAME=Learning
This term is often used to describe the process of creating instructions which appear in the PC-DMIS Edit window. This can be done through typing in the actual entries, selecting menu command from the menu bars, or by touching measurement points on a physical part with the CMM and pressing the jog box's DONE button or the keyboard's END key.
NAME=LEVEL - 3 +
This means that three or more features are needed to perform the Level command for an iterative alignment.
NAME=LEVEL set
This is the set of features needed to perform the Level command for an iterative alignment. See LEVEL -3 +.
NAME=Line Distance
The length of a line segment between two features.
NAME=Literals
Operands whose symbols literally describe their value. "3" is a literal of type integer. "3" means the number three. It never means "4" or "2". A variable, such as "V1" does not literally denote its value, rather it is a label or holding place for a value. "V1" could hold a value of "2", "3", or "4" or any other number of object type. Literals often have very specific functions and meanings and at times can be used in place of arguments. See also "String Literals".
NAME=LK systems
LK systems are CMMs or CMM controllers produced by LK, as opposed to SHARPE models.
NAME=LMC
Least Material Condition.
NAME=Logo.dat
This data file contains information that formats a document header for the first page of the Edit Report. It may contain information such as date, time, etc.
NAME=Looping
The act of repeating any portion of the part program a predetermined number of times.
NAME=Machine Capability
This is the same as the process capability (see Capability Threshold), except standard deviation is calculated in a different way. It this case standard deviation is calculated based on the individual data, not subgroup data. This is essentially the only difference.
NAME=Machine Coordinates
The position, expressed as X, Y, and Z values, of a feature or object within the measurement volume of a CMM with respect to the machine's zero reference position.
NAME=Manual Probing Point
This refers to the fact that the operator manually moves the machine when taking the hit rather than the machine moving itself in DCC mode.
NAME=Mark Set
This highlights a group of features that will be measured when the part program is executed.
NAME=Mark Used
The Mark Used function (selected from the Probe Utilities dialog box) will scan a PC-DMIS part program and mark or highlight the probe angles that are used or referenced by the part program. This will then allow an operator to easily determine which probe angles or tips need to be qualified.
NAME=Master Arm Mode
This mode allows one arm, designated by the user as the "Master", on a multi arm CMM, to take precedence over another arm, designated as "Slave", in order to avoid collision of the arms. This is also known as Master / Slave mode.
NAME=Material Thickness
Material Thickness is a property which can be associated to CAD files. Many times, especially on parts constructed of sheetmetal, a CAD file will represent only one side of the material. Therefore, in order to accurately measure and dimension on the opposite side of the part, a correction thickness must be applied.
NAME=MDI
Multi-Document Interface. This is a program or user interface that allows more than one file open at a time (PC-DMIS for example allows you to have more than one part program open at a time, making it an MDI application).
NAME=Measurement Volume
The measurement volume is the area in the machine that can actually be used for measurement. Although the machine dimensions may be large, the actual space that is available to use for measurement can be much smaller. The measurement volume can increase or decrease depending on the probe configuration (type of wrist, probe body & stylus) being used.
NAME=Meta-Character
A meta-character is a character that acts as a wild card for another alpha-numeric character or characters. There are two meta characters available in PC-DMIS: the Asterisk (*) meta-character and the Question mark (?) meta-character.
NAME=Microns
A micron is a unit of measurement, one millionth of a meter.
NAME=Minus-Lower tolerances
Gives a plus tolerance in the Minus Tolerance field. (i.e. 1.000 + .003 / +.001).
NAME=MMC
Maximum Material Condition.
NAME=MMIV
This stands for the Micro Measure IV(tm) measurement software package.
NAME=Model-space
This is the 3D coordinate space to which surface and curve geometry is mapped.
NAME=Modes
Modes are different program states available to PC-DMIS. Each mode offers specific functions. The modes available to PC-DMIS include: Program Mode, Translate Mode, DCC Mode, Manual Mode, and Text Box Mode.
NAME=Mount point
A defined XYZ location used during certain fixture and probe changer operations.
NAME=Movement Range
The actual space (volume or area) that can be used on a machine for measurement. It is also known as Measurement Volume.
NAME=Moving Average
This is the average value of a set of data points that moves over time. Example: Given a subgroup size of 3 (the number of data points used in calculating a moving average) and the following set of data: [1,2,3,4,3,4,5,4,3,2,3] the first moving average is calculated from the first three points: [1,2,3]. Its value is 2. The second moving average is calculated by moving over one step to the right within the data, giving the following data: [2,3,4]. Its value is 3. The next 3 points are: [3,4,3]. Its average is 3.33. The next 3 are: [4,3,4]. This is done up to the end of the data.
NAME=Mrad
This is an abbreviation for milliradians. A milliradian is an angular angular distance of one thousandth of a radian.
NAME=Nested subroutines
These are subroutines which are called from (or nested within) another subroutine.
NAME=Newtons
A "newton" is a unit of force. One newton is the force needed to accelerate a mass of 1 kilogram to a speed of 1 meter per second per second.
NAME=Normal To
The phrase "normal to" a certain feature or geometrical element, simply means "perpendicular to" or at a 90 angle to some other feature.
NAME=Notch
A feature type which is similar to one-half of a square ended slot.
NAME=Num Hits
See # Hits.
NAME=Num Rows
See # Rows.
NAME=ODBC
Open Database Connectivity
NAME=Offset Feature
PC-DMIS allows three types of Offset Features, Offset Points, Offset Lines and Offset Planes. An Offset Feature is on constructed one or more other features. Each feature comprising the Offset Feature may then have an offset or correction value associated with it. Thereby, each feature contained in the offset feature may or may not actually coincide with the new constructed feature.
NAME=OLE
This stands for Object Linking and Embedding.
NAME=On Error
On Error is a function of some CMM controllers where if an electronic probe contacts or doesn't contact a part unexpectedly, the PC-DMIS part program will branch to a separate set of instructions to be executed. This function may be called from the main menu by selecting the On Error menu item.
NAME=Open GL
Open Graphics Library. This refers to a library of graphic routines used to aid in the display of graphical information.
NAME=Operand
The part of an equation that is being operated on by an operator. In the equation "2+3", the numbers 2 and 3 are operands and the plus sign (+) is the operator.
NAME=Optical Probe
An Optical probe is a probe that uses optics to determine its location. For example, a laser probe would be considered an Optical Probe.
NAME=ORIGIN set
This is the set of features needed to perform the Set Origin command for an iterative alignment. See SET ORIGIN - 1.
NAME=Outliers
Outliers are "wild points" and usually result from glitches in the measuring process rather than representing actual material. You may find it useful to identify and ignore such points.
NAME=PA
This abbreviation stands for Polar Angle. Also seen as PANG. The Polar Angle is used in cylindrical coordinates and is used with Polar Radius. See PR.
NAME=Pang
This abbreviation stands for Polar Angle. Also seen as PA. The Polar Angle is used in cylindrical coordinates and is used with Polar Radius. See Prad.
NAME=Parameter-space
This is the 2D coordinate space of a surface's parametric domain. For example, one corner of a surface is defined at parameter position (0,0) and the opposite corner is at (1,1). Varying this parameter between these two positions defines the entire surface. Given the geometric definition of surface, a parameter-space position can be mapped to a model-space point.
NAME=Parent
A 'parent' is a command (or information from a command) used in another command.
NAME=Part Coordinates
The position, expressed as X, Y, and Z values, of a feature on a physical part with respect to an origin location.
NAME=Part Program
The part program is the textual description of how to measure or inspect an object. Each part program has a unique name with a .prg extension. The part program is created by the CMM operator. The part program can be, but is not always, associated with a CAD model. If it is associated with a CAD model, the CAD file will have the same file name as the part program with a .CAD extension.
NAME=Perm
Abbreviation for permanent. See Perm Sample Hits.
NAME=Perm Sample Hits
The number of sample hits which will be used in measuring a particular feature during execution of a part program.
NAME=PH9
This is the model number of a particular Renishaw probe head. The abbreviation stands for Probe Head 9. This term is also used to refer generically to articulating motorized wrist type probe heads.
NAME=Pierce Point
An intersection point found on a CAD surface using the measured hit coordinates and approach vector. It is equivalent to a ray that uses the approach vector and starts from the hit's XYZ location and then, using the approach vector, pierces the surface at an appropriate point.
NAME=Pins
Pins are removable features that stick out of a part (as opposed to holes which go into the part). Pins are similar to  "studs".
NAME=Pitch
Pitch is the distance moved along the axis of the feature in one revolution.
NAME=PlaneVec (Plane Vector)
See Boundary Plane Vector.
NAME=PNT TOL
This abbreviation for vector point tolerance is used in the Edit window (as PNT TOL = n) to specify the vector point tolerance for manual touches in an iterative alignment.
NAME=Point to Point Digitizing
Point to Point Digitizing is a process of gathering the data about the surface of a part for reverse engineering purposes. Data is gathered by scanning the part with a machine and software capable of generating discrete measurement points. Once a sufficient number of points are gathered, they are taken as a group and processed to generate the electronic surfaces of a part which can be used by CAD software to complete a design.
NAME=POLAR
Refers to a Polar (also seen in the Edit window as POLR) coordinate system containing U and V coordinates. U represents the polar radius and V represents the polar angle or vector.
NAME=POLR
An abbreviation for Polar.
NAME=Polyline
In computer graphics, a polyline is a continuous line made up of one or more line segments. A polyline is sometimes treated as a single object, or it may be divided into its component segments.
NAME=Potentiometers
These are instruments that measure electromotive forces.
NAME=PPAP
PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) defines requirements for production part approval.
NAME=PR
Stands for Polar Radius. Also seen as Prad. The Polar Radius is used in cylindrical coordinates with Polar Angle. See PA.
NAME=Prad
Stands for Polar Radius. Also seen as PR. The Polar Radius is used in cylindrical coordinates with Polar Angle. See PA.
NAME=Pre-Hit
This is number which determines at what distance a probe will reduce speeds while approaching a part to take a hit.
NAME=Precedence
Precedence in algebraic expressions or assignment operations refers to the order in which operations occur. For example, multiplication has a higher precedence than addition therefore, the expression "2 + 3 X 6" evaluates to 20 since 2 is added to the result of 3 X 6. Not following precedence might result in the errant result of 30.
NAME=Probe
The sensing unit that is attached either to the Ram of the CMM or the indexable wrist. The probe requires a stylus be mounted to it in order to gather measurement data (except in the case of a hard probe).
NAME=Probe Changer
A rack placed in the measurement volume of the CMM. The probe changer secures multiple probe types for use in a single part program. The CMM can switch between probe types without the need for operator assistance.
NAME=Probe Depth
The Probe Depth is the location of the probe along the Z axis, normal to the CMM's table.
NAME=Probe Extension
A Probe extension is a cylindrical piece that is inserted between the probe head and the probe itself.
NAME=Probe Shanking
This is the accidental contact of the probe's shank with the part or a feature on the part.
NAME=Probing Cycle
This is the cycle of operation an analog probe/controller goes through to take a point.
NAME=PROE
ProEngineer CAD file format.
NAME=Profile
"A profile is the outline of an object in a given plane (two-dimensional figure). Profiles are formed by projecting a three-dimensional figure onto a plane or by taking cross sections through the figure."-ASME Y14.5M-1994 Dimensioning and Tolerancing. Often on CAD drawings, when you look at a surface in different views, it won't look like a surface, but a curve, line, or a collection of individual points. These are the result of this projection of a three-dimensional figure onto a plane or by taking cross sections through the figure.
NAME=Profile Error
This is the deviation of the actual or measured profile from the theoretical or nominal profile
NAME=Program mode
This mode allows you to create your part program in the Edit window. It also shows the image of the probe in the Graphical Display window.
NAME=Pt
Abbreviation for Point.
NAME=Qualification Tools
See Calibration Tool.
NAME=Qualify
To qualify also means to calibrate, or determine the position (of a probe tip, for example).
NAME=Question Mark (?) Meta-Character
The question mark meta-character (?) acts in the same way as the asterisk (*), except that the question mark meta-character will match only 1 alpha-numeric character.
NAME=Radian
A radian is a unit of angle measurement such that an angle of one radian has an arc length along the edge of the circle equal in length to the radius.
NAME=Ram
This refers to the end of the arm to which the probe is attached. On a horizontal machine, the Ram is the horizontal beam on the machine and usually moves in the X or Y axis of the machine. On a vertical machine (commonly called a "bridge" machine) the ram is mounted vertically and moves in the Z axis of the machine.
NAME=Read POS
Read Position. This function will get the current XYZ coordinates from the CMM controller.
NAME=RECT
Rectangular. Used where the referenced coordinated system should be expressed in rectangular (XY) or Cartesian (XYZ) form.
NAME=References
An expression syntax that refers to the value of data. All of the syntax used to access different data elements of the part program. "CIR1.X" is a reference to the measured x value of the centroid of the feature called CIR1. "LINE.LENGTH" is a reference to the length of LINE. "C1.INPUT" is a reference to the input of the comment named C1.
NAME=Relearn Mode
This is a scan option for execution of a scan. If the Execute option is selected to RELEARN, then every time a scan is reexecuted the compensation vectors for each scan point are recalculated.
NAME=RFS
Regardless of Feature Size.
NAME=RLE
RLE stands for Run Length Encoding and is a way of compressing bitmap files.
NAME=Rmeas
Relative Measurement. Can be used to create a new auto feature at coordinates which are derived from the actual measured coordinates of a previously measured feature.
NAME=ROI
This is a computerized box displayed on the computer screen for the NC-100 video probe. Measurement of the feature must be within the box.
NAME=ROTATE - 2 +
This means that two or more features are needed to perform the Rotate command for an iterative alignment.
NAME=ROTATE set
This is the set of features needed to perform the Rotate command in an iterative alignment. See ROTATE - 2 +.
NAME=Round feature type
A round feature type is a circular or curved feature. See Round features.
NAME=Round features
Round features are defined as circles, spheres, cones, and cylinders. See Round feature type.
NAME=Round Guess
This is a mode of operation utilized when using a hard probe to set order of precedence for the software to guess the type of feature being measured. Round Guess will attempt to Solve for a circle, cylinder, cone, or sphere before a plane. See also Guess Mode.
NAME=RTF
Rich Text File.
NAME=Scan Point Density
The Scan Point density determines the number of hits that the CMM returns for each millimeter.
NAME=Scripting
See Basic Scripting.
NAME=Section lines
Section Lines are CAD entities that can be superimposed on a CAD drawing. Though they contain no dimensional or drawing information, they can be referenced by a Section scan to provide a linear scan across one particular section of a part. These are reference lines used by engineers when specifying locations of part features.
NAME=SET ORIGIN - 1
This means that one feature is needed to perform the Set Origin command for an iterative alignment.
NAME=Shank
This is the shaft portion of the stylus that extends from the measuring tip to the stylus mounting joint. In the case of a shank tip, there is no precision tip (see shank tip). The shaft which supports the qualification tool is also referred to as a shank.
NAME=Shank Qual
Shank Qualification is utilized with sheetmetal styli to provide the axis direction of the shank as well as the center point of the spherical tip end.
NAME=Shank Tip
Tip shaped like a straight shaft.
NAME=Shanking
A term used when the probe is triggered by contacting the part with the shank of the stylus as opposed to the tip of the stylus. When this occurs, erroneous data is gathered.
NAME=Sheet Bodies
This is Unigraphic's modeling engine's terminology for surfaces.
NAME=Sheetmetal Stylus
A sheetmetal stylus is designed for measuring very thin part. The sheetmetal stylus will have semi-spherical ball on its end with a short section of shank which is coaxial and concentric to the center of the ball.
NAME=Sheetmetal Thickness
See Material Thickness.
NAME=SHSP
Stylus Holder Setting Piece
NAME=Sigma
The Greek letter often used to represent standard deviation.
NAME=SNSDEF
This statement is a DMIS major word used to defined sensors in the DMIS language.
NAME=Soft Probing
Soft Probing (or SFT) is Leitz terminology for a frequently used probing mode used to measure soft materials.
NAME=Solid Bodies
This Unigraphic's modeling engine's terminology for solids.
NAME=Spacer
A user defined value indicating the offset distance between the edge of a feature and a sample point.
NAME=SPC
This stands for Statistical Process Control. In PC-DMIS SPC charts can be created and updated from a defined database.
NAME=Spline
A spline is a specific type of curve or surface. Splines are used in modeling because of their mathematical properties which make them easier to use in a wide variety of ways. Splines can be used in both curves and surfaces.
NAME=Square-up
"Square-up" means to align (or rotate) the part in the Graphical Display window until that part lines up and is parallel to an edge of the screen.
NAME=Standard Deviation
This is the root mean square of the deviation from the mean. In equation form it is: sqrt((sum((xi-m)^2))/n-1) where: m = the mean value n = the number of data points xi = the ith data point.
NAME=Start Ang
Starting Angle.
NAME=Start point
The Start Point in a scan is the beginning point of the scan's execution.
NAME=State Mode
The four states of operation are Translate Mode, 2D Rotate Mode, 3D Rotate Mode, and Program Mode. These four options can be individually selected from PC-DMIS'S toolbar icons.
NAME=Statistical Output File
This file contains printable stats for a part program. Information is saved in the file named "xtats11.tmp" usually in the PCDMIS directory or the location that you chose to install PC-DMIS.
NAME=STEP AP203 & AP214
STEP stands for Standard for the Exchange of Product Model Data. STEP was forwarded to the international community in 1988. It is a standard for the computer-interpretable representation and exchange of product data. The objective of STEP is to provide a neutral medium capable of describing a product throughout its life cycle.
NAME=Step Mode
Step Mode is a variation in execution of a part program in which the CMM will execute only one block of commands at a time. User intervention is required for the program to continue. In effect, this is 'stepping' through the part program.
NAME=Stitch Type Scan
This is the type of scanning performed on DCC CMMs which have Touch Trigger Probes. During the scan, the CMM will contact the part, move away the retract distance, move to the next prehit point, then move in and contact the part. This process continues to repeat until the scan is complete. The term Stitch Type comes from this process which is similar to the functioning of a sewing machine.
NAME=STL
Stereolithography format. An ASCII or binary file used in manufacturing, provides a list of the triangular facets that describe a computer generated solid model.
NAME=Studs
Studs are non-removable features that stick out of a part (as opposed to holes which go into the part). Pins are similar to "studs".
NAME=Stylus
Also referred to as "Probe Stylus" is a cylindrical shaft (shank) with a high precision tip. The stylus screws into the probe body and is usually interchangeable with other Styli (plural for stylus).
NAME=Stylus Changer
The stylus changer is a rack that is placed in the measurement volume of the CMM. It holds multiple styli to allow for the use of multiple styli in a single Part Program. The CMM is able to automatically switch between styli without the need for operator intervention.
NAME=Stylus Extension
A Stylus extension is a cylindrical piece that attaches to the probe body and to the stylus. It is used to extend the length of the measuring tip. Multiple extensions can be used at one time.
NAME=Subroutine
A subroutine is a sub-program within the part program. These sub-programs contain commands from the current file or an external file and that are able to be used repeatedly.
NAME=Surface of Revolution
This is a surface which may be generated by rotating a curve plane about an axis in its plane.
NAME=System Calibration
This is the process of checking the accuracy of a CMM and making adjustments mechanically to the CMM or electronically to the VolComp file to reduce the inaccuracy.
NAME=T-Value
The distance of the measured hit from the nominal point along the nominal CAD surface vector. In technical terms, it is the composite of the difference in the 3 axes for the hit, essentially the square root of the sums of the squares.
NAME=TAPER TIP
Tip that has been tapered to a conical shape which gets smaller toward the end.
NAME=TARG
This stands for target. It is the size or location information at which the CMM will try to measure.
NAME=Tessellation
The act of breaking up a surface into a group of polygons in order to shade a graphical image.
NAME=THEO
This stands for theoretical. It is the nominal size or location information.
NAME=Thread
The portion of the tip that is screwed into another part is referenced by the size of thread. The tread is the corkscrewed band that holds the parts together.
NAME=Time Delta
This user specified value is used to weed out hits taken with manual scans using a hard probe that come in faster than the specified time increment. The increments are in seconds.
NAME=Tip
This is the portion of the stylus that comes into contact with the part being inspected/measured. Styli may have several types of tips. The tip can be a ball, disc, or a pointer.
NAME=TOG
TOG is a "toggle" field in the Edit window. To toggle through the available options within the Edit window, place the cursor over toggle field and press F7.
NAME=Tool Changer
See Probe Changer.
NAME=Touch Trigger Probe
This type of probe automatically triggers a hit when it touches the part.
NAME=TP
True Position.
NAME=Trace Field
This is a two field command in the Edit window. The first field represents the name, or title of the trace field. The second field will display the current value of the trace field (i.e., Temperature : 75, or Shift : afternoon). Trace Fields are used in the XSTATS11.TMP file for database programs such as DataPage.
NAME=Translate mode
This places PC-DMIS into a program state which allows you to move the part on the screen as well as change the part's display size in the Graphical Display window, etc.
NAME=Trihedron
A graphical representation of the planes meeting and forming a point. Also termed a  trihedral.
NAME=TTP
See Touch Trigger Probe.
NAME=UG
UniGraphics CAD file type.
NAME=UPR
This stands for Undulations Per Revolution.
NAME=Variable
An object used to hold a value. A variable has a name and a value. The name is used to access the value of the variable. The name is constant, the value can be changed. For example, the statement ASSIGN/V1 = 2 creates a variable with a name of V1 and a value of 2. ASSIGN/V2 = V1 + 2 accesses the value of V1. If V1 still had a value of 2 when this assign statement was executed, V2 would then have a value of 4. A variable is a value that refers to integer, real, string or point operands.
NAME=Variable Delta
Variable Delta is a type of scan that can be accomplished only with a hard probe. During a Variable Delta scan, data points are read only when the requirements of a specific minimum time increment and a minimum distance increment are achieved.
NAME=VDAF
VDAF stands for VDA Surface Data Interface format. VDAFS was published as a German national standard in 1986. It is used by the German Motor Manufacturers Association (VDA) to exchange 3D CAD model data.
NAME=VDAFS
See VDAF.
NAME=View ID
View ID is a user defined name for a view that the user has saved in memory.
NAME=VolComp File
The "comp.dat" file. For a CMM to measure accurately, this file must be located in the PC-DMIS operating directory of the computer used to operate CMM's which are Volumetrically Compensated. See Volumetric Compensation (VolComp).
NAME=Volumetric Compensation (VolComp)
Volumetric Compensation is the process of accessing a CMM's Error Map and applying the error as a correction factor to measurements in order to enhance the accuracy of the CMM. This is accomplished automatically by PC-DMIS once a CMM has been properly initialized. (See also Error Map.)
NAME=Weight
A value calculated from a tolerance used when calculating a best fit. The smaller the tolerance the less room there is for error. A smaller tolerance, then, carries a greater "weight" or importance in a best fit calculation.
NAME=Wild Cards
Wild Cards are made up of two meta-characters, the asterisk (*) and the question mark (?). The asterisk meta-character (*) will match, or take the place, of any character or characters in a search. The question mark meta-character (?) acts in the same way as the asterisk (*), except that the question mark meta-character will match only 1 alpha-numeric character.
NAME=Wire Bodies
This is Unigraphic's modeling engine's terminology for wire frame features (wire, lines, curves, etc).
NAME=Working Plane
The Active and Pass Through Planes define the working plane. PC-DMIS will allow you to indicate the specific plane into which a feature is projected when it is measured. The term 'working' is the same as 'current' or 'active' when referring to the working plane.
NAME=Wrist Map
See Error Map and Volumetric Compensation.
NAME=Wrist Warning Delta
This option can be found on the Part/Cmm tab of the SetUp Options dialog box. If a CAD selected feature to be measured does not have a vector which agrees with the active probe angle within the Wrist Warning Delta limit, a warning is generated.
NAME=X, Y, and Z Center
These values show the location of the center of the ball tip.
NAME=XBarR
XBar is a way of writing out the statistical symbol X which is the mean or average. Thus the XBar chart is a mean or average of a process. This is usually calculated over time and the chart is set up such that the X axis of the chart is time and the Y axis of the chart is the mean value.XBarR is an abbreviation for "XBar and R". This is essentially an XBar chart with additional information. The "R" represents the range of data in any given sample. A sample is defined as a predetermined number of measurements. The range of a sample is calculated by subtracting the Min from the Max of the sample. This is then plotted at the same time position on the chart as the mean of the sample giving two data points for the sample at that time.
NAME=XBarS
XBar is a way of writing out the statistical symbol X which is the mean or average. Thus the XBar chart is a mean or average of a process. This is usually calculated over time and the chart is set up such that the X axis of the chart is time and the Y axis of the chart is the mean value.XBarS is an abbreviation for "XBar and S". ". This is essentially an XBar chart with additional information. The "S" represents the Standard Deviation of the sample. There is a mathematical equation to determine the standard deviation of a sample.
NAME=Z rail
The Z rail is the vertical arm of the CMM.
