Verifying Position Errors In CNC Gear Measuring InstrumentsUsing A Laser Interferometer With Dynamic Data Capture Software

CNC gear measuring instruments measure gears by scanning across the tooth surface. A Renishaw laser interferometer system with position based dynamic data capture hardware and software was used to verify position errors on slides at the normal scanning speed used when measuring gears. The results from a Hofler EMZ 632 CNC gear tester in the UK national Gear Metrology Laboratory are presented and show that the techmque generates realistic data for calibration purposes under closely controlled laboratory conditions. A comparison between data gathered under dynamic conditions and static conditions is made. Some important considerations applying the technique are discussed.