Hexagon Metrology Launches New Sheffield Shop Floor CMM

By DE Editors

Hexagon Metrology launched the Sheffield 4.5.4 SF, a new line of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) built for the shop floor and designed to withstand harsh manufacturing environments. The SF series introduces a variety of advancements based on the Discovery line.

With a major focus on portability, the CMM delivers a small footprint of 52.2 x 32.8 x 79.5 inches, which fits through a standard door. The CMMs computer, controller, and interface boxes are integrated into one self-contained unit with locking wheels for mobility throughout the shop floor. The Sheffield 4.5.4 SF also uses standard 110/220 volt outlets with no need for shop air. Product availability is limited to North America, with other worldwide launches planned later in 2012.

The unit includes hardened linear drives and recirculating bearings, features originally pioneered on the Discovery line. The CMMs design and standard elastomeric dampers isolate the measuring platform from most vibrations. Inverted high resolution Heidenhain scales, covered ways, and internal cable management protect machine components from ambient dust and debris while minimizing friction. An optional active vibration dampening system is available for extreme environments. The 4.5.4 SF also incorporates design improvements for measurement and inspection applications, such as advanced thermal isolation and temperature compensation elements to ensure accuracy in unstable shop floor environments.

The SF series comes standard with PC-DMIS metrology software.

In separate news, Hexagon AB also announced that it has acquired all shares in the Norwegian company My Virtual Reality Software AS (myVR). myVR provides software that offers a solution for 2D, 3D and 360-degree viewing for desktop and mobile. The company has developed a patented technology platform that enables high-resolution, real-time viewing of interactive maps over networks with limited bandwidth. The platform makes it possible to view large-scale models on any 3D hardware-supported client platform, including mobile phones and tablets.

For more information, visit Hexagon Metrology.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.