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PolyWorks|Inspector™ Training Workbook,

Basic probing applications for Portable Metrology

PolyWorks® 2017
[4/12/17] – TRM-0739-2017-EN-0.0
Contents

6 Introducing the Training Workbook

POLYWORKS INSPECTION BASICS

Fundamentals
8 Introducing the PolyWorks Workspace Manager
11 The probing workflow with a CAD model
14 The probing workflow without a CAD model
17 The graphical user interface
23 Moving objects in the 3D scene
24 An object-based approach

Import Reference Objects

26 Introducing Reference objects
27 Importing a CAD model

Acquire Data Objects

28 Introducing Data objects
29 Working with multiple device positions

Align Data Objects to Reference Objects

32 Introducing alignments
36 Aligning by probing surface points
38 Aligning with measurement objects
39 Aligning with features
40 Aligning with reference targets
42 Aligning with Datum Reference Frames

Measure Dimensions and Deviations

44 Introducing measurement objects in PolyWorks|Inspector Probing

3
45 Defining part geometry using features
56 Inspecting 2D part profiles with cross-sections
58 Measuring specific locations on a part using comparison points
60 Measuring displacement during real-time assembly
62 Introducing coordinate systems
64 Creating and activating coordinate systems
67 Geometry controls

Report Measurement Results

68 Reporting
70 Introducing the Control Reviewer
74 Using the Control Reviewer

Inspect Multiple Pieces

90 Repeating an inspection on multiple pieces
92 Evaluating pieces using Statistical Process Control

Additional Topics
94 Automatic project update
96 Saving a compressed copy of a project
97 Getting help

4
EXERCISES
100 Exercise 1: Features (without a CAD model)
104 Exercise 2: Features
108 Exercise 3: Feature-based alignment – Perpendicular Planes
112 Exercise 4: Feature-based alignment – Plane, Axis, Center Point
116 Exercise 5: Best-Fit Measurement Objects alignment
120 Exercise 6: Surface comparison points
124 Exercise 7: Trimmed edge comparison points (supplemental)
128 Exercise 8: Features – GD&T
132 Exercise 9: GD&T – Datum Reference Frame alignment by probing
136 Exercise 10: Cross-sections (supplemental)
140 Exercise 11: Build and Inspect (supplemental)
143 Exercise 12: Measurement points and object control SPC
(supplemental)
147 PolyWorks keyboard shortcuts

5
Introducing the Training Workbook

About
This workbook is intended to be used by trainees during a PolyWorks|Inspector™ training –
Basic probing applications for Portable Metrology.

Content
This workbook is composed of two main sections: a Basics section and an Exercises section.
Each section addresses the particular needs of trainees in a PolyWorks|Inspector™ training.

Basics
The Basics section provides educational information on the key tools and functionalities
covered in a typical basic training. More specifically, it introduces a given subject so that
trainees understand the context and use of a particular tool or functionality in the subsequent
exercises. To get additional information on any of these subjects, trainees should refer to the
Basics source document: the PolyWorks|Inspector™ Essentials (Probing package).

The electronic format of the PolyWorks|Inspector™ Essentials (Probing package) document is

available from the Help menu of the PolyWorks Workspace Manager, as well as from the Help
menu of the PolyWorks|Inspector module. The Essentials provides all the information
included in the Basics section, along with step-by-step instructions on how a particular tool
can be used and standard parameters can be set. The Basics section of this workbook simply
provides excerpts from the Essentials document.

Exercises
The Exercises section is composed of several stand-alone exercises that introduce specific
PolyWorks tools to trainees. For each exercise, a brief introduction provides information on
the dataset used and lists the tasks that need to be done as part of the exercise. An
engineering drawing is also provided, which gives information on the measurements that
need to be obtained on the part. A Key steps section adds detailed information to guide
trainees in completing these tasks.

Note that some exercises and specific steps are flagged as Supplemental. This is to highlight
that the particular tools covered in those exercises or steps are not deemed essential for a
basic training.

6
PolyWorks Inspection Basics
FUNDAMENTALS

Fundamentals
Introducing the PolyWorks Workspace Manager
When starting PolyWorks, the PolyWorks Workspace Manager interface displays.

The PolyWorks Workspace Manager manages a PolyWorks process from beginning to end.
This includes the following tasks:

• Allows adding software license keys.

• Manages all the incoming data files and the results produced by the PolyWorks modules.
As work progresses, files and projects are saved to a container called a “workspace”.
• Offers simple navigation between PolyWorks modules.

Adding license keys

License keys are required to use PolyWorks. There are two types of licenses: node-
locked or floating. Both types are managed through the PolyWorks License Manager,
which is available by choosing Tools > PolyWorks License Manager in the PolyWorks
Workspace Manager.

For information on how to add license keys, choose Help > Reference Guides > License Keys.

8
 FUNDAMENTALS

Introducing the workspace format

The PolyWorks Workspace Manager uses a workspace format which is designed to handle all
the results of a point cloud processing project.

Here is a view of a workspace in the When a workspace is saved, it creates one

PolyWorks Workspace Manager. XML file with the .pwk file and one folder with
the _Files suffix. Both file and folder include
the workspace name. The .pwk file is only an
index – the folder contains all the data.

The .pwk file and associated _Files folder must remain in the same folder.

9
FUNDAMENTALS

Starting PolyWorks modules

The PolyWorks Workspace Manager provides direct access to the PolyWorks modules. The
main modules are accessible through the Main Modules toolbar. Click a module button to
launch the corresponding module. Note that the complete list of modules is offered on the
Tools menu and by choosing Tools > Utility Modules.

PolyWorks|Inspector

This module is a software tool that allows measuring the deviations

of Data point clouds and polygonal models to Reference surfaces,
measuring the dimensions of specific features, and generating
comparison and verification reports.

PolyWorks|Modeler

This module offers a comprehensive set of advanced editing tools for

polygonal models. It also allows creating NURBS patches, which can
be used to create NURBS models or repair polygonal models.
PolyWorks|Modeler also allows creating parametric sketches which
can be imported into CAD modeling software.

10
 FUNDAMENTALS

The probing workflow with a CAD model

Here is the basic inspection workflow when using a probing device to perform the inspection
and a CAD model of the inspected part is available.

Import
Reference object

Align part
to Reference object

Measure
dimensions and deviations

Report
measurement results

11
FUNDAMENTALS

Understanding the workflow

Import Reference object

Import the nominal information of the part
(CAD model) into the inspection project.

Align part to Reference object

Pre-align part to Reference object

Pre-align the part to the CAD model to take
advantage of the visual guidance tools.

Refine part alignment to Reference

object
Refine the part alignment to the CAD model
using feature-based alignments, reference
targets, or datum reference frames.

Measure dimensions and

deviations
Perform the inspection of the part by
probing point clouds and/or measurement
objects such as features and comparison
points.

12
 FUNDAMENTALS

Report measurement results

Report the measurement results using
tables, snapshots, and formatted reports.

13
FUNDAMENTALS

The probing workflow without a CAD model

Here is the basic inspection workflow when usinga probing device to perform the inspection
and no CAD model of the inspected part is available.

Acquire
part data
by probing

Position part

Measure
dimensions and deviations

Report
measurement results

14
 FUNDAMENTALS

Understanding the workflow

Acquire part data by probing

Acquire part data by probing point clouds
and/or measurement objects such as
features and comparison points on the
actual part.

Position part
Align part to standard axes
Align the probed data points to standard
axes (X, Y, Z) to facilitate reporting. Note that
this step is optional.
OR

Create coordinate systems

Create a coordinate system using the probed
features to orient and locate the probed data
points. This facilitates reporting. Note that
this step is optional.

Measure dimensions and

deviations
Complete the part measurement. Enter
object control nominal values and toler-
ances, if they are known, into the Geometry
Controls pane.

15
FUNDAMENTALS

Report measurement results

Report the inspection measurement results
through the use of tables, snapshots, and
formatted reports.

16
 FUNDAMENTALS

The graphical user interface

The user interface offers a menu bar, toolbars, a status bar, and several main dockable panes.
Multipiece
Main Objects
Menu bar Search box inspection
toolbar
toolbar

Standard
toolbar

Tree
View

3D Scene

Selection
toolbar
3D Scene
Status bar
toolbar
Menu bar: Access to all the functionalities of PolyWorks|Inspector Probing.

Quick access to common operations such as Open, Save, and

Standard toolbar:
Undo.

Main Objects toolbar: Quick access to the most common tools for an inspection.
Multipiece inspection
Quick access to the various multipiece tools.
toolbar:
Used to enter a query and search through Tree View objects or
Search box:
menu items.

Tree View: Pane where all the objects of the project are stored.

3D Scene: 3D rendering window where objects are displayed.

Used to navigate in the 3D scene, to change the view, and to control

3D Scene toolbar:
the visibility and display of objects.

Selection toolbar: Used to select objects or elements in the project.

Provides information and allows changing units, layers, and the

Status bar:
automatic update status.

17
FUNDAMENTALS

The graphical user interface specific for probing

While probing, the user interface offers different probing toolbars, probing status information
and a Digital Readout.

Probing status Digital Readout

Devices Probing Device Probing Device Probing Control Device Position

toolbar toolbar Control toolbar toolbar toolbar

Devices toolbar: Offers items that allow connecting to the probing device.

Probing Device Offers quick access to set probing device properties.

toolbar:

Probing Device Available for specific probing devices such as laser trackers. It
Control toolbar: allows controlling the device.

Probing Control Allows controlling the probing session that is being performed.
toolbar:

Offers quick access to device position-related operations such as

Device Position
defining targets, moving the device and managing device positions
toolbar: and targets.

Probing Status: Displays the progression in capturing points.

Displays real-time information about the position of the probe and

Digital Readout:
information related to the object being probed.

18
 FUNDAMENTALS

Specifying the required plug-ins

PolyWorks|Inspector Probing offers the capability to acquire data through the use of
scanning and probing plug-ins. These plug-ins are available only if they have been specified to
be loaded when starting a module such as PolyWorks|Inspector Probing.

The plug-ins that will be made available in PolyWorks|Inspector Probing depend on the
settings in the Workspace Manager Options. These options are displayed the first time that
PolyWorks is opened. They are also available at any time by following these steps:
1. In the PolyWorks Workspace Manager, choose
Tools > Options. The Workspace Manager
Options dialog box opens.
2. On the Plug-ins page, select the plug-ins that
correspond to the scanning and/or probing
devices to use.
3. Click Apply.
4. Start PolyWorks|Inspector Probing.
The options set in the Plug-ins page are automatically saved and are used at the next
module startup.

Devices toolbar
Displayed in the lower left-hand corner of PolyWorks|Inspector Probing, the Devices toolbar
allows the device connection for data acquisition. It offers the following standard
functionalities:

Connect/Disconnect to Device

Connects to or disconnects from the current probing device.

Offline Simulation Mode

Activates/deactivates a simulation mode where operations can

be performed without having to be physically connected to the
device

19
FUNDAMENTALS

Particularities when probing

Connecting to the device

To use a probing plug-in, a connection must first be established with the device. Proceed as
follows:

1. On the Devices toolbar (located in the lower

part of PolyWorks|Inspector), click the down
arrow next to the Connect/Disconnect
button.

2. Choose the device from the drop-down list.

3. Click the Connect/Disconnect button.

The button changes as shown to the right.

Probing toolbars
Probing toolbars are displayed in the lower part of PolyWorks|Inspector Probing. They
contain tools and settings to facilitate a probing session. The tools and settings offered
depend on the current device.

Probing Device toolbar

For articulated arms, the Probing Device toolbar offers the following standard functionalities:

Probing Device Properties

Opens the properties interface of the current probing device.

Tip Diameter
6
Displays the current probe tip diameter.

Probing Mode

Sets the probing mode for the current probing device.

Probing Options

Provides quick access to options typically located on the Measurement

Mode and Compensation Method pages of the PolyWorks|Inspector
Options dialog box.

20
 FUNDAMENTALS

Probing Device toolbar for laser trackers

For laser trackers, the Probing Device toolbar offers additional functionalities:

Device Properties

Opens the properties interface of the current probing

device.

Reflector Name

Sets the reflector used by the current probing device.

Probing Options

Provides quick access to options typically located on

the Measurement Mode and Compensation Method
pages of the PolyWorks|Inspector Options dialog box.

Temperature Stability Monitoring

Opens an interface for controlling temperature stability

monitoring.

Probing Device Control toolbar

For laser trackers, the Probing Device Control toolbar allows controlling the device. The
following standard functionalities are offered:

Go Home

Orders the current probing device to move to, or to target, a location called
"Home".

Go Front

Orders the current probing device to move to, or to target, its front.

Go to Object

Orders the current probing device to move to, or to target, the location of the
selected object.

21
FUNDAMENTALS

Go to XYZ

Orders the current probing device to move to, or to target, the specified XYZ
coordinates.

Find Target

Orders the current probing device to find a nearby target.

Probing Device Utilities toolbar

Provides access to specific tracker functionalities.

Orient to Gravity

Measures the inclination of the current probing device in order to orient new
measurements to gravity for the active device position.

Probing Control toolbar

The Probing Control toolbar allows controlling the probing session that is being performed. It
offers the following standard functionalities:

Undo Last Probed Point

Removes the last probed point of the current acquisition session.

Reprobe Object

Enables an interactive mode for reprobing the last probed object.

Depending on the connected device, two additional functionalities are offered:

Start or Stop Measurement

Starts or stops a measurement session.

End Probing and Process Probed Data

Ends the current acquisition session and attempts to create a new object
using the probed points.

22
 FUNDAMENTALS

Moving objects in the 3D scene

The position of objects can be modified in the 3D scene, using the mouse. Rotations,
translations, and zoom operations are each mapped to a specific mouse button.

Mouse-based operations:
Rotation
To rotate about the X axis and the Y axis viewing axes, click and hold the left
mouse button inside the 3D scene. To constrain rotations to a vertical or a
horizontal viewing axis, press and hold SHIFT before clicking.

Translation
To translate along the X axis and the Y axis, click and hold the middle mouse
button. Translations along the X axis or the Y axis are performed by moving the
mouse in the X or Y directions respectively, inside the 3D scene.

Zoom
Translating along the Z axis is equivalent to a zoom operation. Click and hold
the right mouse button, then move the mouse forward and backward. When
the mouse is moved forward, a positive translation is performed on the 3D
object, and the scene moves nearer to the user. When the mouse is moved
backward, a negative translation is performed on the 3D object, and the scene
moves farther away from the user.

Zoom box
Zoom on part of an object by delimiting a rectangular area:
1. Press and hold SHIFT.
2. Middle-click to create a first rectangle corner.
3. Drag the pointer to the opposite rectangle corner.
4. Release the middle mouse button.

Rotation about the viewing axis

To rotate about the viewing axis, press and hold SHIFT, click and hold the right
mouse button, then move the mouse in the right or left direction.

Mouse Button Behavior menu button

Note that the same operation can be assigned to all mouse
buttons by selecting a corresponding button on the
Mouse Button Behavior menu button, available on the
3D Scene toolbar.

23
FUNDAMENTALS

An object-based approach
PolyWorks|Inspector Probing offers an object-oriented approach to measurement and
analysis tasks. Inspection projects describe the list of objects imported and created within
PolyWorks|Inspector Probing, and they preserve editing operations performed by users.
Several categories of objects can be generated within an inspection project. They are
described in the subsections that follow.

Objects and their elements

Objects are items found in the Tree View, such as Data and Reference objects. They are made
up of elements, like data points in a point cloud, or surfaces in a CAD model. Both entire
objects and specific elements can be considered for analysis during inspection.

Module Objects Elements

point cloud data points

PolyWorks|Inspector
polygonal model triangles
Probing
CAD model CAD surfaces

There are two selection tools,

one for objects and one for
elements.

A point cloud contains data points.

A polygonal model contains triangles.

A CAD model contains CAD surfaces.

24
 FUNDAMENTALS

As shown below, the list of objects is available in the Tree View.

Reference object
Tools > Reference Objects

Data object
Tools > Data Objects

Data alignment
Align

Data color map

Measure > Deviations of Data Objects

Feature
Measure > Features

Cross-section
Measure > Cross-Sections

Comparison point
Measure > Comparison Points

Gauge
Measure > Gauges

Measurement
Measure > Interactive Measurements >
Basic

Reference target
Measure > Reference Targets

Coordinate system
Tools > Coordinate Systems

Report
Report

25
IMPORT REFERENCE OBJECTS

Import Reference
Objects
Introducing Reference objects
Reference objects are the nominal objects (typically a CAD model or a polygonal model) to
which the Data objects are measured.

There are two categories of Reference objects. The following table presents each category:

Icon Type Description

CAD Reference objects All imported CAD formats.

Polygonal Reference Polygonal models.

objects

Once a Reference object is imported, it is displayed in the

Tree View, under the Reference branch.

26
 IMPORT REFERENCE OBJECTS

Importing a CAD model

It is common practice, in the industry, to design the shape of
parts using 3D drawing software, commonly known as
computer-aided design (CAD) software. CAD models greatly
simplify the task of defining nominal geometries and
dimensions, an essential step in the process of inspecting parts.

Objective: Import a CAD model into the inspection project as a Reference object.

Required: A CAD file in a neutral format (IGES or STEP file) or a native format (such as CATIA,
NX, Pro/E, SolidWorks, or Inventor).

Steps

1. Choose File > Import > CAD Models.

A file browser opens.

2. Browse for the CAD file and select it.

3. Click Open.

Results

The CAD model is added to the Tree View, The CAD model is displayed in the 3D scene.
under the Reference branch.

27
ACQUIRE DATA OBJECTS

Acquire Data Objects

Introducing Data objects
Data objects in a typical inspection process represent the objects to be inspected. They are
created within PolyWorks|Inspector Probing as a result of probing physical objects.

The following table presents the three types of Data objects:

Icon Type Description

Surface Data objects Point Clouds obtained by probing.

(with normals)
Surface Data objects
(without normals)

Boundary Data objects Boundary Point Clouds obtained by probing1.

(with normals)
Boundary Data objects
(without normals)

Probed Data objects Data points obtained when:

(with normals)
• Probing measurement objects (i.e., features,
Probed Data objects comparison points, cross-sections, and gauges).
(without normals)
• Performing a surface point alignment.

1. Without normal information.

Data objects are displayed in the Tree View, under the Data
branch.

28
 ACQUIRE DATA OBJECTS

Working with multiple device positions

There are many challenges to acquiring data points on large objects. Some objects are larger
than the measurement volume of a device. Sometimes, data must be acquired on a portion of
a part that is hidden from the measuring device. These situations demand that the device be
moved around the part to acquire the data. In PolyWorks|Inspector Probing, device positions
address this specific need.

The different device positions must be aligned to each other. One method is detailed in this
manual:

• Using targets
• From points obtained by probing targets

In the example illustrated below, a part is measured using a laser tracker in three different
device positions.

The active device position is displayed on the status bar, in the lower-right corner of the
interface.

The Device Positions toolbar is located at the bottom of the user interface. It offers the
following tools:

Define Measured Targets

Opens the Define Measured Device Position Targets dialog box from which
to measure the targets.

Move Device

Allows the creation of a new device position.

29
ACQUIRE DATA OBJECTS

Manage Device Positions and Targets

Opens the Device Positions and Targets pane which allows visualizing the
different device positions and targets and editing them.

The basic acquisition workflow with multiple device

positions using targets
Typically, the part is inspected, and point targets are used for the alignment. The targets can
be a set of physical targets around the part, or they can be center-point-based features such
as holes that have been probed on the part.

Position 1

Define Measured Targets

Define the accessible targets of
position 1.

Measure the part by

probing
In position 1, measure the part by
probing. When probing objects other
than features (for example,
comparison points and cross-
sections), the part must be aligned to
the CAD model.

Move Device
Define a new device position and
physically move the device or the
part.

30
 ACQUIRE DATA OBJECTS

Position 2
Define Measured Targets
The acquisition of targets is
automatically launched.
Define all the accessible targets of
position 2. There must be a minimum
of three common targets, with the
previous position, for alignment.
There can be more targets than in
the previous position. Typically, these
will be used with targets in future
positions.

Measure the part by

probing
In position 2, measure the part by
probing.

Move Device
Define a new device position and
physically move the device or the
part.

Position n
Repeat the Process
Repeat this process for as many
positions as needed to acquire the
required data.

31
ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

Align Data Objects to

Reference Objects
Introducing alignments
An alignment is an object transformation operation that changes the position and orientation
of a Data object to bring it into the coordinate system of a Reference object.
Reference object Data object

Before alignment After alignment

Inspector Probing offers a variety of alignment tools to meet a wide variety of scenarios. Each
alignment is represented in the Tree View as a data alignment.

Alignment tools
Here is a list of common tools offered by PolyWorks|Inspector Probing that are used to align
Data objects to Reference objects:

Alignment using measurement objects:

Best-Fit Measurement Objects

Alignment using features:

Plane, Axis, Center Point Perpendicular Planes

Alignment using reference targets:

Reference Targets by Probing

32
 ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

Alignment due to GD&T-specified datum frames:

Datum Reference Frames Datum Reference Frames by Probing

Alignment to align the probing device to the Reference object:

Surface Points

Alignments in the Tree View

An alignment performed on a Data object appears as a
data alignment under the Data Alignments branch in the
Tree View. The active data alignment of an alignment
group is shown in bold.

33
ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

Introducing data alignments

Each transformation of a Data object is automatically recorded in the Tree View as a data
alignment. While the latest data alignment is usually the active data alignment, a previous
data alignment can be activated manually. This may be useful to examine measurement
results using a variety of alignments.

Each data alignment is stored chronologically within an

alignment group. The data alignment on object creation
is called original. The data alignments within an alignment
group form an alignment history. The name of each data
alignment recalls the type of alignment performed.

The active data alignment, often the last one, is shown in

bold. Any data alignment can be activated, and the project
contents are updated automatically. Unnecessary data
alignments can be deleted.

Data objects with the same transformations can be contained in the same alignment group,
whereas Data objects requiring different alignments are automatically placed in a separate
alignment group. The latter case is common for assemblies of multiple Data objects. An
alignment performed on any Data object applies to all the Data objects within its alignment
group.

The creation of alignment groups and data alignments is automatically managed by

PolyWorks|Inspector Probing.

Activating a data alignment

An alignment group can contain multiple data alignments, such as the original alignment and
a feature-based alignment. It is possible to activate any alignment in an alignment group and
results are automatically updated.

Objective: Activate a previous data alignment in an alignment group.

Required: A Data object with at least two data alignments present in an alignment group.

34
 ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

Steps

Here, there are two data alignments:

original and plane, axis, center point 1.
The plane, axis, center point 1 alignment is
currently the active alignment and is
shown in bold.

1. Select a data alignment in the Tree View

and choose Align > Data Alignments >
Activate.
Alternatively, right-click the selection and
choose Activate.
Measurement objects and results are
updated automatically.

Results

The selected data alignment is activated and The Data objects are transformed by the new
shown in bold in the Tree View. active data alignment.

Notes

When a data alignment is performed incorrectly, it is best to

delete it immediately. First, activate the previous data
alignment, then select the last data alignment in the
alignment group, and choose Edit > Delete > Objects. Deleting
an intermediate data alignment may have an effect on the
subsequent data alignments.

35
ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

Aligning by probing surface points

The Surface Points alignment method allows aligning probed points to the same locations on
Reference objects. This pre-alignment tool greatly facilitates visualization and guidance for
subsequent operations.

Objective: Align by probing surface points.

Required: A Reference object, a physical part, and a probing device.

Steps

1. Choose Align > Surface Points.

The Create Surface Points dialog box opens.

2. In the Method list, specify Anchor.

3. Click Anchor.

4. Anchor six points on the Reference object to

use for the alignment.
All six degrees of freedom should be constrained
using a 3-2-1 alignment method, where the
alignment direction of three surface points is
along one reference axis (X axis), the alignment
direction of two other surface points is along a
second reference axis (Y axis), and the alignment
direction of the last surface point is along the
remaining reference axis (Z axis). If all the degrees
of freedom are not constrained, then only a final
N Point Pairs alignment is performed.
The anchored points are listed in the Align Surface
Points pane. A radial tolerance determines how
closely the probed point must match the reference
location.

5. If a probing device is connected, the probing

dialog box opens automatically. Otherwise,
click Probe Source Points in the pane.

6. On the physical part, probe the same six points

using the same order.
As the points are probed, the probing device is
more closely aligned to the Reference object,
providing increasing visual context.

36
 ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

7. If the probed points are not precise enough to

fall within the radial tolerance of the reference
location, a message box offers to reprobe the
points that are out of tolerance.
Visual and audio guidance are provided to
remeasure those points. The points can be
reprobed in any order.

Results

The new data alignment is added to the The probed data points are aligned to the
alignment group of the Data object. same locations on the Reference object.

37
ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

Aligning with measurement objects

The approach consists in creating measurement objects whose nominal components are
created on the Reference object, and whose measured components are obtained by probing
the actual part. Then, the measured components are aligned to the nominal components,
transforming the position and the orientation of the acquired data, including the linked
objects.

This method supports surface features and point-reducible measurement objects which
include:

• Features: circles, arcs in 3D, ellipses, points, polygons, rectangles, slots, and spheres.
• Comparison points: surface, trimmed edge, and hemmed edge.

Best-Fit Measurement Objects

Use the Best-fit Objects pane to configure the alignment. It offers the possibility to combine
the supported objects for alignment and to specify their alignment directions.

Depending on the nature of the measurement object used, the data alignment is performed
using the following criteria:

• Surface features: nominal component and measured data points which define the
measured component of the surface feature are used.
• Point-reducible measurement objects: point derived from the nominal component and
point derived from the measured component are used.

38
 ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

Aligning with features

The approach consists in creating features whose nominal primitives are created on the
Reference object, and whose measured primitives are probed on the actual part. Then, the
measured primitives are aligned to the nominal primitives, transforming the position and the
orientation of the acquired data, including the linked objects.

There are several feature-based alignment methods:

Plane, Axis, Center Point

Perpendicular Planes

Alternatively, the Plane, Axis, Center Point and the Perpendicular Planes methods can also
align the acquired data to standard axes. The probed measured primitives are aligned to
standard planes, standard axes, and a coordinate along the axes.

Distinct characteristics of planar features, direction-based features, and center-point-based

features allow using them for alignment methods:

• Planar features: planes, circles, arcs, ellipses, polygons, rectangles, slots, and slabs.
• Direction-based features: circles, arcs, cones, cylinders, ellipses, polygons, rectangles,
slots, and lines, but not planes.
• Center-point-based features: circles, arcs, ellipses, points, polygons, rectangles, slots,
and spheres. They are also called point-reducible features.

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ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

Aligning with reference targets

Reference targets are points or lines that can be used to
constrain an alignment along a specified direction. These are
commonly found in sheet metal part drawings as well as
molds and die drawings, where specific coordinates on the
part are established and directions along the standard axes
are defined to align the part.

Typically, reference targets are created on the Reference

object. Once they are in the desired position, a reference
target alignment can be performed.

Introducing reference targets

There are two types of reference targets: points and lines.

Reference target points

They are positioned at precise
coordinates, and align the Data
object along the alignment direc-
tions.

Reference target lines

They are created from line
features, and constrain the
alignment along a pin or shank
edge.

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 ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

There are three subtypes of reference target points: surface, feature, and cross-section.

Surface reference target points

They are positioned at precise

coordinates on Reference object
surfaces. When performing the
alignment, the distance of the
measured point on the Data
object to the target is minimized
according to the specified
alignment directions.

Feature reference target

points
They are created from precise
coordinates of the Reference
object, and are associated with
individual features, such as a
circle, a slot, or a plane. When
performing the alignment, the
distance to the feature is
minimized according to the
specified alignment directions.

Cross-section reference target

points
They are positioned at precise
coordinates on Reference object
surfaces, and are associated with
cross-sections. When performing
the alignment, the distance of a
measured point on the cross-
section to the target is
minimized.

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ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

Aligning with Datum Reference Frames

A Datum Reference Frame (DRF) is a referential that serves to
orient and locate objects in space. A DRF can be composed of
datum features with nominal and measured primitives. The
DRF alignment aligns Data objects (using the measured
primitives) to Reference objects (using the nominal
primitives). It can also be composed of datum targets. A DRF
used by a Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
control serves to orient and locate tolerance zones.

Align using a Datum Reference Frame

Objective: Align the probed Data object to the Reference object using a DRF.

Required: The PolyWorks|Inspector project contains a probed Data object and a Reference
object, as well as datum features and/or datum targets, each containing a
nominal and a measured component.

Steps

1. Choose Align > Datum Reference Frame.

The Align Datum Reference Frame dialog box
opens.

2. Choose an existing DRF from the list.

DRFs used in any GD&T control are listed
automatically.

3. To add a new DRF, under Creation, select

datum features using the lists.

4. Click Create.
The new DRF is added to the Datum reference
frames list.

5. Select a DRF in the list, then click Align.

To be used in a DRF, a feature must have a datum

feature label. The datum feature label can be
specified on the Feature tab of a feature’s
property sheet.

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 ALIGN DATA OBJECTS TO REFERENCE OBJECTS

Results

The new data alignment is added to the The Data object is aligned to the Reference
alignment group of the Data object. object using the datum features.

Notes

When datum features are specified in a GD&T control, the Datum Reference Frame alignment
is applied virtually for the calculation – the Data object does not need to be actually aligned to
the Reference object. However, the alignment used by a GD&T control can be visualized using
the Feature Navigator tool.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Measure Dimensions
and Deviations
Introducing measurement objects in
PolyWorks|Inspector Probing
PolyWorks|Inspector Probing is an object-oriented analysis and verification environment. All
items imported or created in PolyWorks|Inspector Probing are objects, and
PolyWorks|Inspector Probing preserves the relational correspondence of these objects
throughout the inspection process.

Measurement objects
Measurements are done through the use of measurement objects: data color maps, features,
cross-sections, comparison points, and gauges. These objects have the capability of being
measured, remeasured, updated, and reported. Measurement objects obtain results by
calculating the deviation between nominal components, derived from a Reference object, and
measured components, derived from a Data object. The components of feature and cross-
section measurement objects can be displayed by expanding the objects in the Tree View,
while the components of comparison points and gauges are contained within the objects
themselves. A measured status icon is displayed for objects that are successfully measured.
For color maps, the green check indicates that the color map is valid.

A simple feature has a nominal and a The nominal and the measured component
measured component. of a cross-section can be represented by
several children, depending on the number
of Reference and Data objects encountered
by its slicing plane.

Automatic project update

Automatic project update is an option that keeps objects up-to-date by recalculating
measured values as related objects are modified. By propagating changes throughout the
inspection project, the coherence of the inspection project is always maintained. For more
information, see Automatic project update on page 94.

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Defining part geometry using features

Features define geometric characteristics of a part, such as holes and planar surfaces, and are
typically used for part alignment and dimensional inspection purposes.

A feature typically contains a nominal and/or a measured primitive, also referred to as

primitives. The nominal primitive represents the theoretical or ideal measurement, such as
that found on a CAD model. The measured primitive is created from the measured data points
on the actual part being inspected.

Features are available on the Measure > Features menu or on the Features toolbar.

Feature types
Features can be categorized as follows:

Individual features Features containing a nominal and/or a measured primitive.

Individual features can be categorized by their geometrical
properties. The most common categories are:

Surface-based:
Features that have a
surface.
Plane Cylinder Cone Sphere
Curve-based:
Planar curves with a center
point (x, y, z) and a direc-
tional vector (i, j, k). Circle Arc Slot Rectangle Polygon

Ellipse
Other:

Point Line Polyline

*Feature composed of two existing parallel plane
features with opposite orientations and
containing a nominal and/or a measured
Slab* primitive.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Composite features

Features composed of two or

more existing features.
Distance Angle Pattern

**Feature composed of CAD surfaces (nominal

component) and data points (measured
component).
Surface**

Feature primitives
A feature typically contains a nominal and/or a measured primitive:

Nominal primitives represent the theoretical or ideal

measurement, such as that found on a CAD model.

Measured primitives are the geometrical entities

found on the actual part being inspected.

The feature creation methodology

A standard dialog box with common and contextual parameters is used for the creation of
individual features and their primitives. Other features (surface, slab, angle, distance, and
pattern) are created using their own creation dialog box, described respectively in each
subsection.

The subsections that follow describe the feature creation methods and their parameters.

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

The feature creation dialog box

1. Choose Measure > Features > Create.
The Create Features dialog box opens.

2. Expand the feature type drop-down menu and

choose which type of feature to create.

3. In the Name text box, specify a name if

desired.
4. In the Datum feature label list, assign a
datum label, if desired.
5. In the Method list, select a creation method.
6. In the Submethod list, select a creation
submethod, if available.
7. Specify the required Parameters according
the creation method.
8. In the More section, specify the Primitive
status, if required.
9. Click the appropriate button to launch the
creation.

Key feature creation parameters

The feature creation dialog box offers the following parameters, depending on the feature
type:

Name
A default name is automatically entered in the
Name text box. It can be edited, if desired.
The same name is assigned to the primitive with
the -nom- (nominal) or the -meas- (measured)
suffix according to the primitive status.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Datum feature label

A datum label can be specified for all individual
features, except polylines, to create a Datum
feature. Datum features are used in GD&T
controls.
Choose a datum letter in the Datum feature label combo box, or type in a customized
datum label, consisting of one or more letters. Note that datum labels cannot contain the
letters I, O, Q, X, Y, and Z. Once created, each feature is assigned the specified datum label.

Method
The creation methods available vary according to
the type of feature selected.
The Pick on CAD Model, Anchor, Numerically,
Probe, and Fit creation methods follow standard
creation processes which are described later, and
result in a feature object with a nominal or a
measured primitive.
Construction methods, such as From Objects,
From Intersection, and From Projection, create
features using existing objects.
The From Elements construction method creates points from selected elements.
The Empty Feature creation method allows creating an empty geometric feature of a
specific type, to which a nominal and/or measured object can eventually be added.

Parameters
The parameters available in the dialog box vary according to the creation method
specified in the Method list box.

Primitive status
A general feature creation operation creates
features containing a nominal or a measured
primitive, according to the specified Primitive
status.
A primitive status is initially defined upon creation,
through the Primitive status group label, found in the More section.

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Creation methods explained

Pick on CAD model

Features (except points, polylines, and lines) can be created by picking the CAD geometry. For
instance, a cylinder on the CAD model can be picked to create a nominal cylinder feature.

The Pick on CAD Model creation method offers two submethods for surface-based features:

• Single Surface: Creates a feature by picking a single CAD surface in the 3D scene.
• Multiple Surfaces: Creates a feature by picking multiple CAD surfaces in the 3D scene.

To create different types of features without

opening separate tools, choose Measure >
Features > Create.

The Create Features dialog box opens.

Choose Multiple types from the feature type

drop-down menu.

Most standard features can be picked using this

interface.

• To create curve-based features, like circles or

slots, two approaches can be used:
• Move the mouse cursor on a CAD model
surface to select the closest curve-based
feature and pick the one desired when it
highlights.
• Move the mouse cursor in the void within a
hole to select the first found primitive based
on the current 3D scene view and pick.
• To create surface-based features, hold down
SHIFT and pick the desired surface.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Anchor

Features can be created by anchoring their primitives on visible Data and Reference objects.

The Anchor creation method enables an interactive mode that allows anchoring primitives.

Each type of feature is created using a specific anchoring method. The How to button displays
a diagram illustrating how to anchor points to create the specified feature type.

When finished picking a required number of points, a primitive passing through the picked
points is automatically created and added to the Tree View.

Numerically

Features can be created numerically using mathematical definitions.

The Numerically creation method offers parameters specific to the type of primitive being
created.

Point, Center, Origin, or Apex coordinates can be provided by manually entering the (x, y, z)
coordinates, or by dragging a center-point-based primitive (arc, circle, ellipse, point, polygon,
rectangle, slot, and sphere) and dropping it over the x, y, or z text box.

A Radius value can be provided manually, or by dragging a primitive with a radius (arc, circle,
polygon, rectangle, slot, cylinder, and sphere) dropping it over the text box.

Orientation or Normal coordinates can be provided by manually entering the (i, j, k)

coordinates, or by dragging a direction-based primitive (arc, circle, cone, cylinder, ellipse,
plane, polygon, rectangle, slot, and line) and dropping it over the i, j, or k text box.

Probe

Features can be created by probing a primitive directly using a measuring device.

The Probe method offers several parameters that allow users to customize the probing
session.

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Probe method
By default, the Standard submethod is selected
since it gives good results in most of the cases.
However, some specific situations require a
different approach to be able to probe features
successfully.

Thin Material: It is recommended to use this

submethod when probing curved-based features
on an object made of a thin material like sheet
metal. It takes in consideration the thickness of
the material and the constraining plane to
calculate the compensation correctly even when
the probe is in contact with the edge instead of
the sidewall.

Hole smaller than probe: Available for circles

and slots only. It is typically used when the
diameter of a feature is smaller than the probe
diameter. It creates a feature by intersecting the
probe with the constraining plane.

Compensation method
By default, the Compensation Method is
generally set to From Device. This method uses
the Compensation Method value of the probing
device specified on the Probing Device >
Compensation Method page of the
PolyWorks|Inspector Options dialog box. The
following values are available:

Compensation Point: using this method, a final

probed point is used to identify the compensation
direction. The probe is positioned away from the
part material, and the probing session is ended.

Probe Orientation: the probe orientation is used

to identify the compensation direction. The first
point must be gathered with the probe oriented
normal to the contact surface.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Fixed number of points

In order to more strictly control the way each
feature is probed, it is possible to set the number
of probed points required to define it. When Fixed
number of points is selected, any number of
points greater than or equal to the mathematical
minimum can be specified. The fixed number of
points can also be set for constraining planes.

Constraining planes
A constraining plane helps control the orientation of two-dimensional curve-based features
like circles and slots. Since points probed around the feature perimeter may have different
heights, the constraining plane prevents the feature from fitting at a tilt.

When a curve-based feature such as a circle is

probed, the exact height of each probed point
will vary slightly.

If a constraining plane is specified, the probed

points will be projected onto that plane,
removing the height variation.

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

While an unconstrained circle could be tipped

Plane
compared to the part surface, a constrained
circle will lie exactly on the surface plane.
Unconstrained Circle

Plane

Constrained Circle

Probing zone
For curve-based features, it is possible to define a
probing zone which prevents capturing points if
the probe is located outside of it. This can be used
for example, to prevent capturing points on a
chamfer or other undesirable areas.

Fit

When creating or extracting features from a point cloud or polygonal model, the user can
specify how the feature should be fit. Three options are available: Best-fit, Min, and Max. The
method specified will determine where, within the data elements of qualifying distance and
angle, the feature primitive will be positioned. The Fit creation method allows creating
features by fitting their primitives to selected Data or Reference object elements or to picked
points.

If the Best-fit method is selected, a standard best-fit algorithm is applied, using a pure least-
squares approach to generate a feature that is an average fit within the eligible data elements.
The Best-fit method is the default fit type for many feature types, such as planes. It is a
reasonable choice in regions where the point cloud is expected to generally define a smooth
surface and any digitizer noise would be equally distributed above and below the surface.

If the Min method is selected, the feature is fit such that no points are enclosed by the
primitive. For a circular hole, the circle feature would fit to the innermost eligible data points,
while for a planar surface, the plane would fit to the bottom eligible data points. It is a
reasonable choice when defining a hole in the piece, because it describes the largest mating
diameter possible without interference.

If the Max method is selected, the fitting algorithm applied creates the smallest primitive that
encloses all considered data points. For a cylindrical pin, the cylinder would fit to the
outermost eligible data points, while for a planar surface, the plane would fit to the top
eligible points. The Max method is a reasonable choice when defining a physical pin or diffuse
surface like honeycomb, because it describes the actual mating surface without interference.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

A Best-fit, Min, and Max circle feature, fit to a

selection of data points.

A Best-fit, Min, and Max plane, fit to a selection

of data points.

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Constructing features

When creating features using construction methods, like From objects or From intersection,
the creation method section of the creation dialog box offers a submethod selection list box.
If the objects required for the construction are preselected in the Tree View, a corresponding
construction submethod is automatically specified according to the type of objects selected.

When constructing features using existing features, the primitives of the selected features are
divided into two separate groups, nominal and measured, and the desired construction
operation is performed on each group. Note the following:

• If all the source features contain a nominal primitive, the resulting features also contain a
nominal primitive.
• If all the source features contain a measured primitive, the resulting features also contain
a measured primitive.
• The nominal primitive and the measured primitive created using the same source feature
belong to the same resulting feature.
If both the nominal and the measured primitives could not be created, and the Create
dependencies check box was selected in the More subsection of the creation dialog box,
corresponding empty features will be created. Otherwise, no feature is created.

Creating features from files

Commands on the Measure > Features > Create from Files submenu allow importing same-type
primitives from text files, as well as importing one or more types of primitives from specific
file types (for example, IGES files).

Each new primitive is assigned to a new feature of the primitive type. For example, importing a
circle results in the creation of a circle feature that contains the circle primitive. The status of
the new primitives (nominal or measured) can be specified at import.

Feature dependencies
When a feature is constructed using existing objects in the project, for example, when using
the From objects method, the newly created features are dependent on the parent objects
used to create them. This means that any changes made to the parent objects will result in the
recalculation of the dependent features.

Dependent features can be easily identified in the

Tree View, by a red chain icon next to the feature
icon.

To remove the dependencies of a feature, select it in

the Tree View and choose Measure > Features > Remove Dependencies.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Inspecting 2D part profiles with cross-sections

Cross-sections are measurement tools used for 2D inspection
of surfaces. They allow calculating deviations along profiles
obtained from slicing planes.

Introducing cross-sections
Cross-sections are used to inspect a profile of a part along a
cross-sectional plane using the nominal geometry and the geometry of the part in order to
produce results determined by geometry controls. The nominal geometry is obtained by
intersecting the Reference object with a slicing plane. The part geometry is obtained by
probing the part at the sectioning location. The Reference object and the probing device must
be aligned.

Cross-sections can be created along an axis, around an axis (radially), along a curve, or using
several other methods. PolyWorks|Inspector Probing offers standard and offset cross-
sections.

Types of cross-sections
There are two types of cross-sections:

Standard cross-sections
A standard cross-section is created by
intersecting the Reference object with
a slicing plane delimited by a
measurement zone and probing it
afterwards to obtain the part
deviation.

Offset cross-sections
An offset cross-section is created by
intersecting aligned Reference and
Data objects with parallel slicing
planes to produce a single multistep
cross-section. Offset cross-sections
are useful in controlling 2D dimen-
sions defined between features
situated on different slicing planes.
Offset cross-sections cannot be
probed and are therefore not
documented in this manual.

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Measurement zone
The measurement zone defines the 3D limits of the slicing
process, delimiting a slicing plane. As shown to the right, it
is represented by a blue rectangle with red corners. The
dimensions of the measurement zone are defined during
cross-section creation, and can be edited by dragging
rectangle sides.

Measurement method
The measurement method used to obtain the part geometry is Probe which involves probing
the part geometry on the part that is within the measurement zone.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Measuring specific locations on a part using

comparison points
A comparison point contains an exact coordinate, usually located on a CAD object, at which
the data deviation is to be measured. These coordinates can be entered numerically, or
generated by anchoring, sampling the CAD object, imported from a text file, or created by way
of several other methods. Comparison points can be positioned on a part surface or curve, or
along cross-sections or polylines. Surface comparison points are the most common.

Introducing comparison points

There are five types of comparison points, each one tailored to calculate deviations in a
specific context: surface, trimmed edge, hemmed edge, cross-section, and polyline. Note that
the following sections explain the types of comparison points that are most frequently used.

Comparison points are available on the Measure > Comparison Points menu or on the
Comparison Points toolbar.

Types of comparison points

Each type of comparison point is identified by a specific icon.

Surface comparison points

Trimmed edge comparison

points

Hemmed edge comparison

points

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Cross-section comparison
points

Polyline comparison points

Comparison point creation methods

A comparison point is a measurement object that contains nominal and measured
information in order to obtain results.

• The nominal component contains the exact coordinates at which the deviation is
measured. It is created using different creation methods.
• The measured component is created by probing the part. If the probe is within the
measurement zone, a measurement is taken when the trigger is pressed.

Understanding key parameters

Radius
Each comparison point has a measurement zone, circular by default, within which
measurements will be collected. The measurement zone has a radius, which is the radius of
the disc.

The radius is specified during the creation

of comparison points, and can be edited in Radius
their properties along with other filtering
criteria and tolerances.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Measuring displacement during real-time

assembly
While moving a physical part, it is very useful to track its
deviation to stable CAD surfaces or feature(s) to get the
part into the closest possible position.

The Build/Inspect mode offers visual and audio guidance

for tasks such as lining up to a hole or axis, leveling a part,
or securing it in a fixture. Deviations can be measured in
real time to a center point, axis, or surface. It is possible to
measure the probe position to one or to many features
simultaneously, using set tolerances for each feature. If
necessary, the deviation can be recorded for later
reference.

Objective: Move a part into position over a fixed assembly hole using real-time guidance.

Required: A CAD model or feature(s), and a probing device aligned to the Reference object.

Steps

1. Select, in the Tree View, a feature that is the

destination for movement.

2. Choose Measure > Build/Inspect.

The Build/Inspect dialog box and Build/Inspect
Objects pane open.

3. In the Method list, select Single distance to

show guidance to just one feature.

4. Under Object selection, select Specific to

choose the feature to be guided to.

Distance arrows, digital readout values, and audio

feedback in the 3D scene indicate the current
distance of the probe from the destination
feature.

5. Adjust the part using this guidance to bring it

closer to the destination.
Build/Inspect feedback displays in red and green,
based on positional tolerances.

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

6. Specify the Distance Type, Compensation,

and Tolerance values in the Build/Inspect
Objects pane.
The Inverted compensation method can be useful
when building or inspecting a fixture and only the
CAD model of the part is available.
7. If desired, acquire a point to record the final
position.

Results

If a point is collected, it is added to the Tree The physical part location is optimized, and if
View under the Features branch. A measured a point was collected, it is displayed in the 3D
status icon indicates that the object is scene.
measured.

Notes

It is possible to measure several features Each feature can be assigned an individual

simultaneously by selecting the Multiple Digital Readout that allows the user to track
distances method. the probe position with regards to more than
one destination.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Introducing coordinate systems

A coordinate system describes the origin and orientation of an inspection project.

Three types of coordinate systems are supported by PolyWorks|Inspector Probing:

• Cartesian
• Cylindrical
• Spherical
PolyWorks|Inspector PolyWorks|Probing projects come with a default coordinate system
called “world”. It corresponds to the standard Cartesian coordinate system (x, y, z), whose
origin is located at 0, 0, 0.

Multiple coordinate systems are useful for users who need to work in a specific frame of
reference for the purpose of visualizing and reporting information. New coordinate systems
can be created. They appear under the Coordinate Systems branch in the Tree View, and are
represented in the 3D scene as an origin and three axes. Only one coordinate system can be
active at a time.

In the 3D scene
The active coordinate system is displayed using red,
green, and blue for the X, Y, and Z axes respectively.
The world coordinate system is easily identifiable since
it has a gray cube at its origin.

Coordinate systems that are not active are displayed in

gray.

Using a new coordinate system

When a coordinate system is activated, the following occurs:

• All objects are represented in the new coordinate system, regardless of their status.
• All measurement results are transformed in order to be aligned in the new coordinate
system. Measurement results remain valid.
• The numerical values of object properties related to location and orientation are
expressed in the active coordinate system. Default values, for example in the object
creation dialog boxes, do not change.
• Objects are exported in the active coordinate system.
• The bounding box of the 3D scene is recalculated. This can influence the creation of
certain primitives, like a plane primitive created numerically, or certain dependent
primitives that are created using the bounding box.

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Understanding the coordinates of a point

Cartesian coordinates of a point are represented by x, y
and z values based on three mutually perpendicular X,
Y, Z axes.

The cylindrical coordinates of an (x, y, z) point are

represented by a trio of radius, azimuthal angle, and
height values calculated according to the following
convention:

The radius value (r) represents the distance from the

origin along the X-Y plane.

The azimuthal angle value (a) represents the angle with

respect to the positive X direction, calculated within the
X-Y plane according to the right-hand rule. This angle
ranges from 0 to 360 degrees.

The height value (h) represents the distance from the

origin along the cylindrical axis (or Z axis).

The spherical coordinates of an (x, y, z) point are

represented by a trio of radius, azimuthal angle, and
inclination angle values calculated according to the
following convention:

The radius value (ρ) represents the distance from the

origin.

The azimuthal angle value (θ) represents the angle with

respect to the positive direction, calculated within the
X-Y plane according to the right-hand rule. This angle
ranges from 0 to 360 degrees.

The inclination angle value (φ) represents the angle

with respect to the vertical axis (or positive Z axis). This
angle ranges from 0 to 180 degrees.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Creating and activating coordinate systems

PolyWorks|Inspector projects come with a default coordinate
system called “world”. New coordinate systems can be created as
well from feature primitives, from translations and rotations, or
numerically. When a new coordinate system is created, it is
automatically activated.

As shown to the right, the active coordinate system is displayed

using red, green, and blue for the X, Y, and Z axes respectively.

Objective: Create a new coordinate system using feature primitives to define the origin and
orientation.

Required: Features whose geometric properties (ex. center point, normal) can be used to
describe the origin and orientation of the coordinate system.

Steps

1. Choose Tools > Coordinate Systems > Create

Cartesian.
The Create Cartesian Coordinate Systems
dialog box opens.

2. In the Method list, select From Primitives.

3. In the Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary lists,

select the primitives that define the coordinate
system.
Optionally, click the hand icon and pick the
primitives in the 3D scene.

4. In the 3D scene, clicking the colored arrow on

an axis rotates the other axes around it by
90 degrees, thereby changing their direction.

5. In the Create Cartesian Coordinate Systems

dialog box, click Create to confirm the new
coordinate system.

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 MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Tips

All coordinate systems are listed as objects in

the Tree View. The active coordinate system is
displayed in bold in the Tree View, and in color
in the 3D scene. To activate a coordinate
system, right-click it in the Tree View and
choose Activate.

Results

The new coordinate system is added to the The new coordinate system is displayed in
Tree View, under the Coordinate Systems the 3D scene.
branch. It is named csys by default.

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MEASURE DIMENSIONS AND DEVIATIONS

Notes

• When the creation method is set to

Numerically, the exact origin and axis of
the coordinate system can be specified. No
Reference object or feature primitives are
required.

• When the creation method is set to From

Translation and Rotation, the origin and
axes can be offset from the active
coordinate system position by entering
specific values. No Reference object or
feature primitives are required.

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Geometry controls
When inspecting using measurement objects, namely features, cross-sections, comparison
points, and gauges, the main purpose is to control whether the geometric characteristics of
the objects are within the specified tolerance. This is done by adding controls on the
geometric characteristics of measurement objects. These geometry controls can be of two
types.

Dimensional controls – All measurement objects can have dimensional controls. These
controls are used to control, using a tolerance, various geometric characteristics of
measurement objects, like the diameter of a circle, the 3D distance of a comparison point, or
the flush value of a flush & gap gauge. Each dimensional control reports a measured value
and a deviation, is toleranced, and can report a nominal value.

GD&T controls (features only) – Only feature objects can have GD&T controls. These special
controls are used to control precise geometrical dimensions, as specified by the
ASME Y14.5 2009 and ISO standards.

Inspector Probing offers the Geometry Controls pane that is the unique access through which
the controls of all measurement objects are managed.

The Geometry Controls pane allows doing the following for a measurement object:

• View all dimensions and review the nominal, measured, and deviation values; note that
distance controls and most GD&T controls typically only have a measured value, which is
also the deviation.
• Choose the dimensions to tolerance (become dimensional controls).
• Create GD&T controls for features.
• Edit the tolerance for the controls.
By default, new controls appear in the annotation of features in the 3D scene, and are
included in report tables created from all measurement objects.

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REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Report Measurement
Results
Reporting
Producing reports is key to analyzing and communicating inspection measurements.
Reporting measurement results can consist of reviewing controls and creating control views.
Reporting can also consist of creating report tables and report snapshots, complete with
observations, comments, and conclusions, all formatted into a printable document.
PolyWorks|Inspector Probing offers tools to generate and edit such reports. Here is the
typical workflow for reporting:

1. Review measurement results using the Control

Reviewer.

2. Create control views.

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 REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

3. Generate report tables from control views or

from measurement objects in the Tree View.
The report tables are added to the active
formatted report.

4. Generate additional snapshots of the 3D scene

to show measurement results.
They are added to the active formatted report.

5. Prepare the formatted report.

Using the Report Editor tool, format the report
to include project and piece information,
comments on the results, and shapes to
emphasize content.

6. Export the formatted report into different

formats, such as PDF.
The individual report items can be exported as
well. An example is to export to Microsoft Excel.

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REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Introducing the Control Reviewer

The Control Reviewer offers a condensed view of the most important information of an
inspection project: geometry controls. It displays a table of the controls, and it offers
operations to filter, sort, and group them in views. Its content is also synchronized with the
3D scene. Unlike 2D formatted reports, the 3D scene can be manipulated to better visualize
the information.

The Control Reviewer can be used to:

• Review metrology results in an effective way

• Structure inspection projects
• Enhance the reporting workflow

The Control Reviewer pane

To open the Control Reviewer pane:

1. Choose Report > Control Reviewer.

Alternatively, click the Control Reviewer button
on the Main Objects toolbar.

The Control Reviewer pane is displayed. It offers the Controls list box, a contextual toolbar,
column headers, the list of controls, and statistics.

Controls list box Contextual toolbar

Column headers

List of controls

Statistics

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 REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Item Description

Controls list box Specifies the controls that will be listed in the pane.

Offers quick access to common operations. The operations offered

Contextual
on this toolbar change according to the selected item in the
toolbar
Controls list box.

Used to filter and sort controls. It is also possible to show/hide

Column headers
column headers as well as reorder them.

Displays controls according to the item selected in the Controls list

List of controls box. Filters can also be applied to reduce the number of controls
displayed.

Displays statistics on the controls listed in the pane:

• Total number of controls
Statistics • Number of measured controls
• Number of controls that are out-of-tolerance (Fail) or for which a
Warning is issued

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The contextual toolbar

Different tools are offered, depending on the context:

Create Control View

Enters a creation mode based on all the controls listed in the pane, and
opens the Create Control View dialog box.

Create Control View from Selected Controls

Enters a creation mode based on the controls selected in the pane, and
opens the Create Control View dialog box.

Edit Control View

Enters an edition mode for the current control view.

Delete Control View

Deletes the current control view.

Clear Filters

Removes all applied filters.

Edit Context

Opens the Edit Context dialog box, which is used to edit the coordinate
system and the data alignment used to display the controls currently
selected.

Center on All Controls

Positions the 3D scene to show all the controls currently listed in the pane
as much as possible, as well as their annotations.

Center on Selected Controls

Positions the 3D scene to show the controls currently selected as much as

possible, as well as their annotations.

Restore Project View

Restores the 3D scene project view of the current control view.

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Create Snapshot and Table

Creates a report snapshot and a report table for the current control view.

Create Table

Creates a report table for the current control view.

Create Snapshot

Creates a report snapshot for the current control view.

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REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Using the Control Reviewer

Customizing the pane

The information on the controls listed in the pane is managed using columns. By default, the
following columns are displayed: Object Name, Control, Deviation, and Test.

The following columns can also be displayed: Char No., Char Name, Coordinate system,
Data Alignments, Nominal, Measured, Tolerance, %Tol, Out Tol, Meas Date and Time,
and Note.

These columns can also be reorganized as desired.

Steps

In the Control Reviewer pane, position the mouse

pointer over a column header.

Showing/hiding columns
1. Right-click any column header.
A menu is displayed.
2. Select a column to show or hide it (for example
select Char No. to add it to the list of columns
displayed).

Changing column order

1. Left-click the desired column and hold the
mouse button.
2. Drag the column to its new position.
3. When the positioning arrows are displayed,
release the mouse button.

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 REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Results

The Char No. column is displayed and the Test column is repositioned.

Notes

To make the Control Reviewer pane customization the default configuration, choose Tools >
Save User Configuration.

Reviewing controls
By default, all active controls of all measurement objects in the project are listed in the Control
Reviewer pane, offering an overview of the results without having any report items or
formatted reports created. These controls can be filtered and sorted.

Filtering controls using the Controls list

Steps

1. In the Control Reviewer pane, open the

Controls list box.
2. Choose one of the following options:
• (All Controls): Displays all active controls of
all measurement objects in the inspection
project.
• (From Selected Objects): Displays all active
controls of the selected measurement
objects. Objects can be selected in the
3D scene as well as in the Tree View.
• Control Views: User-defined control views
are listed under this item. Displays the
controls associated with the selected control
view.

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Results

Controls are listed in the pane according to the selection made in the Controls list box.

Filtering controls using filters

Steps

1. In the Control Reviewer pane, identify the

columns that have a filter icon.
Column headers with a filter icon indicate that
controls in that column can be filtered.

2. Click the filter icon of a column header.

A contextual dialog box is displayed.
3. Enable the Activate filter parameter.
Depending on the column, controls can be
filtered using a string-based filter, or a multiple
selection from a predefined list of filters.

String-based filter
1. In the list, choose a filtering method:
• Is Equal To: Search for strings that are equal
to the specified string.
• Contains: Search for strings that contain the
specified string.
2. Type the string that will be used to filter the
controls.

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 REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Multiple-selection based filter

1. In the list, choose a filtering method:
• Is Equal To: Search for results that are equal
to the selection.
• Is Different From: Search for results that
are different from the selection.
2. Enable the desired expressions used to filter
controls.

Results

The list of controls is filtered, and only the relevant controls are displayed.

Notes

When a column is filtered, its header is displayed in italics and the filter icon is colored.

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REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Sorting controls

Steps

1. In the Control Reviewer pane, move the mouse

pointer over the desired column header.
2. Click a column header to sort controls.
All column headers can be sorted by increasing/
decreasing values. A third click on a column
header removes the sorting.

Results

The list of controls is sorted.

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 REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Introducing control views

Historically, engineering drawings have been conceived in terms of views: top, side, front, and
auxiliary views present the dimensions and measurements of a part. CAD software capable of
adding PMI to 3D models also use the concept of views.

The concept of control views is introduced in PolyWorks to merge what has been used and is
still used for part documentation in the metrology field. Control views allow reviewing
measurement results in an effective and structured manner, offering an enhanced inspection
workflow.

Creating control views from selected controls

Steps

1. In the Controls list box, select the controls to

be included in the control view.
Use CTRL or SHIFT when left-clicking to select
multiple controls.
If desired, controls can be filtered and sorted
to list only specific controls in the pane.

2. In the Control Reviewer pane, click Center on

Selected Controls.
This positions the 3D scene to show, as much
as possible, the associated objects and their
annotations.
3. In the Control Reviewer pane, click Create
Control View from Selected Controls.
The Create Control View dialog box opens.
4. In the 3D scene, adjust the orientation of the
objects and position of the annotations.
While in the creation mode, a toolbar that offers
quick access to annotation display options is
available. See The Annotation Display Options
toolbar on page 81 for detailed information.

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REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

5. In the Create Control View dialog box, specify a

name for the control view.
6. Click Create.

Results

• The control view is saved and added to the Control Views section of the Controls list.

• The control view can now be selected in the Controls list. When selected, its controls are
listed in the pane, and the associated 3D scene view is displayed.

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Notes

• Create report item is available in the Create

Control View dialog box. It allows creating the
control view as well as the report items linked
to this control view.
• The following options are offered in the list:
• Create Table
• Create Snapshot
• Create Snapshot and Table

The Annotation Display Options toolbar

Fixed

The annotations remain at their respective positions. Their repositioning is

only possible using the Drag Annotations tool.

Close to border

Positions the annotations along the top, bottom, left, and right boundaries
of the 3D Scene pane in a way that minimizes annotation overlap and the
intersection of annotation attachment lines.

Close to object

Positions the annotations as close to their related object as possible.

Automatic repositioning

Enables/disables the automatic repositioning of annotations after moving

objects in the 3D scene.

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Editing control views

Steps

1. In the Control Reviewer pane, select a control

view in the Controls list.

2. Click Edit Control View on the Control

Reviewer toolbar.
The Edit Control View dialog box opens.
3. Modify the view of the part in 3D scene, change
annotation positions, rename the view, apply
filters, sort the list of controls, or change object
visibility options.
4. Click OK to save changes made to the control
view.

Results

The control view now contains all the

changes that were made.

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Displaying controls in the 3D scene

Controls and their associated measurement objects can be displayed in the 3D scene based
on the project view embedded in a control view, or based on the content of Control Reviewer
pane.

From a control view

Steps

1. In the Control Reviewer pane, choose a control

view from the Controls list.

Results

The project view associated with the control view is shown in the 3D scene.

Notes

If the project view associated with the control view

is modified but not saved, Restore Control View
can be clicked to restore the saved project view.

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REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

From the list of controls

Steps

Center on All Controls

1. If desired, filter and sort controls to display
only specific controls in the list of controls.

2. Click Center on All Controls.

Center on Selected Controls

1. In the list of controls, select the controls that
will be displayed in the 3D scene.
Use SHIFT or CTRL when left-clicking to select
multiple controls.

2. Click Center on Selected Controls.

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 REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Results

The 3D scene displays the controls based on the selection that has been previously made.

Linking controls to reviewing and reporting contexts

Within an inspection project, measurements must sometimes be reviewed and reported in
different contexts. In PolyWorks, the context of an object refers to its coordinate system and
Data alignment.

It is possible to link specific controls to specific Data alignments and/or coordinate systems. As
a result, controls are displayed in their specific context. This brings tremendous benefits when
using Statistical Process Control as well as when exporting measurement objects in the Q-DAS
format.

Steps

1. In the list of controls, select the controls to be

linked to a specific context.
Hold the SHIFT and CTRL keys, then left-click to
select multiple controls.
If desired, filter and sort the list of controls to
display only specific controls.

2. Click Edit Context on the Control Reviewer

toolbar.
The Edit Context dialog box opens.

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REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

3. In the Coordinate system list, specify the

coordinate system to be linked to the selected
controls. By default, controls are displayed and
reported using the active coordinate system of
the piece.
4. In the Data alignment list, specify the data
alignment to be linked to the selected controls.
By default, controls are displayed and reported
using the active Data alignment of the piece.
5. Click OK.

Results

The selected controls are linked to the specified context.

Notes

The Coordinate System and Data Alignments columns are not shown by default. See
Customizing the pane on page 74 for more information.

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 REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Working with report tables

A report table is a listing of the desired information of any measurement object, like nominal
and measured values, tolerances, deviations, and pass/fail status. Tables are a very useful way
to summarize measurement results in a brief and straightforward format.

Typically, a measurement object report includes

a title and a header area, the name of each
object, and the following information for each
of its controls:

• Nominal and measured values.

Note that distance controls, and most GD&T controls, do not have nominal values.
• Tolerance limits
• A deviation
• A pass/fail test result
• Out of tolerance value
Since objects are updated by the Automatic Project Update mechanism, table results are
automatically updated as well. Table contents and formatting can be edited to suit different
reporting needs. Table reports can be incorporated into a formatted report or exported for
use in applications like Microsoft Excel.

Creating report tables

Objective: Create a report table containing the current results of a measurement object.

Required: A measurement object, like a feature or a comparison point.

Steps

1. In the Tree View, select the measurement object

for which to report measurements.

2. Choose Report > Create Tables > From Objects.

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REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Results

The report table is added to the active The report table is automatically positioned
formatted report, shown at the bottom of the on a page in the report, and can be viewed
Tree View. by double-clicking the report name in the
Tree View.

Notes

If two or more types of objects are selected, a report table will be generated for each type. For
example, as shown below, all selected features are included in one report table, and selected
comparison points are included in a second report table.

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 REPORT MEASUREMENT RESULTS

Working with report snapshots

Report snapshots are images captured from the 3D scene to report
the model and measurement results in full detail.

Since objects are updated through the Automatic Project Update, the
report snapshot will automatically be updated. The snapshot
contents can also be edited to modify the part orientation or the
objects shown at any time. Report snapshots can be incorporated
into a formatted report, or exported for use in applications like
Microsoft Excel.

Creating report snapshots

Objective: Create a report snapshot showing the contents of the 3D scene.

Required: A visible measurement object or model.

Steps

1. Prepare the 3D scene by giving the model a

suitable orientation and zoom level, and
displaying only the desired measurement
objects.
2. Position annotations using the ALT key while
dragging with the mouse.

3. Choose Report > Create Snapshots > Capture

3D Scene.

Results

The snapshot is added to the active formatted The snapshot is automatically positioned
report, shown at the bottom of the Tree View. on a page in the report, and can be viewed
by double-clicking the report name.

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INSPECT MULTIPLE PIECES

Inspect Multiple Pieces

Repeating an inspection on multiple pieces
In PolyWorks|Inspector Probing, all measurement
object parameters and relations are stored in the
project. The stored information facilitates relational,
parametric inspection within the PolyWorks|Inspector
Probing project, where remeasuring of one object
automatically updates any related objects.

This functionality also allows for perfect repeatability

when inspecting multiple pieces, applying the
inspection routine of the first inspected piece to any
subsequent pieces. The process requires no teaching
or recording mode, and can be paused if necessary for adjustments in later inspections. The
inspection behavior (including the measurement method) is determined by the properties of
each measurement object. Multipiece inspection consists of three general steps:

1. Inspect and report the first piece.

2. Define a new piece.

3. Inspect a new piece using Play Inspection.

All pieces are stored within a single PolyWorks|Inspector project and their results can be
reviewed individually or summarized using Statistical Process Control (SPC) tools.

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 INSPECT MULTIPLE PIECES

Managing multiple pieces

Each physical version of a part is called a piece. By default, the first piece is named piece 1.
Subsequent pieces are named piece 2, piece 3, and so on. Operations related to multiple
pieces are managed through the Multipiece Inspection toolbar.

New Piece

Opens an interface to add a new piece to the project.

Play Inspection

Plays the active measurement sequence.

Sequence Editor

Displays the Sequence Editor pane.

Object Control SPC

Provides access to Object Control SPC functionality.

When a new piece is defined, a copy of the current piece is performed, and the inspection is
reset by clearing all measurements (for example, deleting measured components). Defining a
new piece can be accompanied by a Play Inspection operation, which applies the inspection
routine of the first inspected piece to the new piece.

The measurement data and results of each piece

inspection are stored in the project. The current
piece is shown in the Tree View.

Each piece is stored within the project, with its own

properties, describing the piece, operator, and
device used for inspection.

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INSPECT MULTIPLE PIECES

Evaluating pieces using Statistical Process Control

Statistical Process Control (SPC) is a tool that analyzes common measurements between
multiple pieces for repeatability. Reviewing SPC results tells the user whether a part is being
manufactured predictably or not.

Inspector Probing offers two SPC tools:

Object Control SPC:

Analyzes measurement object dimensions, such as hole diameter, flatness, and length.

Surface Data SPC:

Analyzes the range of part shape using color maps.

Analyze part dimensions for repeatability using Object

Control SPC
The Object Control SPC tool analyzes the values of any
measurement common to multiple pieces in the inspection
project. Results are displayed in graphic and tabular format in
the Object Control SPC Results pane.

Objective: Display statistics of measured object values for all

pieces.

Required: A completed inspection project containing more than one inspected piece.

Steps

1. In the Tree View of a piece, select the objects to

consider in the SPC analysis.

2. Choose Tools > Statistical Process Control > Object

Controls.

3. The Object Control SPC dialog box opens, with a

list of the inspected pieces.
Pieces can be excluded from analysis by
deselecting them in the list.

4. In the Options section, specify the Sample size.

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 INSPECT MULTIPLE PIECES

Results

The value for each of the five pieces is displayed for the selected measurement object in the
Object Control SPC Results pane.

Statistics of the piece values is shown in the object annotation.

93
ADDITIONAL TOPICS

Additional Topics
Automatic project update
By default, PolyWorks|Inspector Probing projects are always automatically up to date. This
means that measurement objects, alignments, data color maps, report items and formatted
reports are automatically recalculated as necessary.

The icon of the Automatic project update status, located

at the right end section of the status bar, indicates
whether the automatic project update is activated or not.

If needed, the Automatic project update can be

activated/deactivated by clicking the arrow to the right of
the icon and selecting the Automatic project update
command. When activated, the command is preceded by
a check mark.

Troubleshooting the automatic project update

The update status of objects in the Tree View is
constantly monitored by the Automatic project
update function. In some cases, object updates
cannot be performed, such as when the
measurement parameters of an object do not allow
its remeasurement or when an object is linked to an
object that no longer exists. In these cases, a yellow
warning triangle is superimposed on the Automatic
project update icon on the status bar and a
notification is shown.

94
 ADDITIONAL TOPICS

Choose Tools > Troubleshoot Project Update to display a dialog box that lists the objects in error
and a message for each.

The following update status icons can be displayed on the object icon in the Tree View:

A red x mark indicates that the object is in error.

A yellow warning triangle indicates that the object could not be updated.

An anchor symbol indicates that the object is nonupdatable.

A clock icon indicates that the object is out of date. An object can have an out-of-date
status only when the Automatic project update is deactivated.

Moving the mouse pointer over the object

displays a tooltip with the details.

Operations that trigger an automatic project update

Common operations that trigger the automatic project update include:

• Modifying a Data or Reference object by replacing the object or by deleting elements.

• Changing the active alignment.
• Opening a formatted report.

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ADDITIONAL TOPICS

Saving a compressed copy of a project

When only one specific inspection project needs to be shared or exported, it is possible to
create a compressed copy of this project directly from an open PolyWorks|Inspector Probing
project.

When opening this compressed file in PolyWorks, or the free PolyWorks|Viewer, a new
workspace is automatically created.

Objective: Share measurement results by saving a compressed copy of an inspection project.

Required: A completed, open inspection project.

Steps

1. To create a compressed copy of the project,

choose File > Save Compressed Copy.

2. In the message window that is displayed, click

OK.
The PolyWorks|Inspector Probing project is
saved and closed.
A file browser opens.

3. Browse for the location to save the file and click

Save.

Results

A copy of the project is saved to a new

workspace that is compressed and then
saved at the specified location as a .pwzip
file. It can be opened with PolyWorks or the
PolyWorks|Viewer.

Notes

From the PolyWorks Workspace Manager, it is also possible to create a compressed copy of
one or more PolyWorks|Inspector Probing projects. Simply open the workspace, select the
projects, and choose File > Export > Objects to Compressed Workspace.

96
 ADDITIONAL TOPICS

Getting help

Users can access help resources both within the PolyWorks software interface and externally.
Resources include Reference Guides, illustrated tips, video tutorials, and webinars.

Getting help through the software interface

Reference Guides
PDF documents located on the Help menu of the PolyWorks Workspace
Manager and of each module. The reference guides define all the PolyWorks
functionalities.

Question mark
? Found on the title bar of displayed dialog boxes. Clicking the question mark
icon opens the appropriate reference guide at the section documenting the
active dialog box.

F1
F1 Pressing F1 opens either the appropriate reference guide at the section
documenting the active dialog box, or, if in an interactive mode, opens the
Interactive Mode Wizard.

Interactive mode wizard

Enable the wizard in the Tools > Options
window, on the General page. The wizard
gives detailed information on interactive
modes (the modes where clicking in the
3D scene is required).

How to button
A button, found in some dialog boxes, that
displays a diagram showing the required
mouse clicks or the steps to perform for an
operation.

Intermediate Release Notes

A PolyWorks intermediate release is produced approximately once a month.
These releases contain new tools along with bug fixes. The “Release Notes” file
gives the details of the intermediate release and is available through Help >
What’s New > Intermediate Release Notes.

97
ADDITIONAL TOPICS

Getting help outside of the software interface

The website
The InnovMetric website (www.innovmetric.com) offers technical webinars, which introduce
new major functionalities and demonstrate the use and benefits of existing PolyWorks tools.

Navigate to the Support > Webinars page.

The Technical Support Zone (TSZ)

The secure Technical Support Zone offers PolyWorks users 24/7 online access to:

Software Releases:

This is where you will find the downloadable versions of PolyWorks and intermediate
release notes.
Knowledge Base:

This section provides videos and tutorials, to help you get the most out of PolyWorks:
• The Video Learning Center offers workflow-oriented videos, to help you learn the basic
capabilities of PolyWorks.
• The Tutorials section contains tips & tricks.

Macro Zone:

PolyWorks offers the possibility of creating macro scripts to automate repetitive tasks or
generate a personal set of tools to save time and perform tasks in a predefined, controlled
manner. In the Macro Zone, you will find a variety of useful macro scripts developed by our
Technical Support team.
Data Exchange:

This section is dedicated to your troubleshooting purposes and allows you and a
PolyWorks expert to confidentially exchange data for review.

For direct assistance

Contact the Technical Support team of your PolyWorks provider.

98
Exercises
EXERCISE 1: FEATURES (WITHOUT A CAD MODEL)

Exercise 1: Features (without a CAD model)

Specific features of this sheet metal part need to be
controlled using the dimensions provided on the engineering
drawing.

First, align the Data object with the standard axes by creating
a coordinate system that is defined by key probed features.
Then, obtain the measurements specified on the engineering
drawing, setting the appropriate nominal values and
tolerances. Finally, create a report that shows the
measurement results.

Dataset

Reference object: None

Engineering drawing
25.40 ±0.10 4

5
25.4 ±0.5

9.5 ±0.5
9.53 ±0.1 34.9 ±0.1
6
1 8 +0.1
3
25.4 ±0.5 25.4 0
VIEW A 9
7
60° ±1° 37 ±1
A
101.6 ±0.5 10

SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE

XX. 1 DRAWN InnovMetric Software

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. Features
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF COMMENTS:
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
FINISH
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A NEXT ASSY USED ON -- UNITS: MM SIZE DWG. NO. REV.
A IN14003 -C
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN
PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE
IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING SHEET 1 OF 1
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT:

100
 EXERCISE 1: FEATURES (WITHOUT A CAD MODEL)

Key steps

1. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

2. Probe the key plane features that will be used to

align the Data object with the standard axes and
the planes required to obtain the measurements
specified on the engineering drawing.

Probed features should allow fully constraining all

degrees of freedom when used later on in the
definition of a new coordinate system.

3. (Optional) Create a coordinate system using key

probed features to align the Data object with the
standard axes.

4. Probe the circle features.

When probing thin material, such as sheet metal

parts, the Thin Material submethod is used to apply
the proper compensation for each probed point
depending on whether they are probed on the
sidewall or on the edge of the part. This specific
submethod can be set using the property sheet of
curved-based features.

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EXERCISE 1: FEATURES (WITHOUT A CAD MODEL)

5. Probe the slot feature.

The "How to..." button, available in the Dialog Zone,

can be used to get information on how the feature
needs to be probed.

6. Create the distance and angle features from the

probed features.

7. Set the appropriate nominal values and

tolerances for the dimensional controls using the
information provided on the engineering
drawing.

A characteristic number can also be assigned to a

particular control, as specified on the engineering
drawing.

8. Review the measurement results.

102
 EXERCISE 1: FEATURES (WITHOUT A CAD MODEL)

9. Select all controls, and create a control view that

provides the results for all the selected controls.

10. Create a table from the control view, which is

automatically added to the formatted report.

11. Update report, piece, and project properties as

needed. Export the report, from the Report
Editor, in PDF format.

12. Save your project for use in subsequent

exercises.

103
EXERCISE 2: FEATURES

Exercise 2: Features
Specific features of this sheet metal part need to be controlled
using the dimensions provided on the engineering drawing.

First, perform a surface point alignment to automatically align

the objects to be probed with the Reference object. Then,
obtain the required measurements, as specified on the
engineering drawing. Finally, create a report that shows the
measurement results in snapshots and report tables.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Engineering drawing

PATTERN OF 5 HOLES
38.1
5 X 9.52
139.70

35.95

SCALE 1 : 4

9.53 50.80

19.05
151.9°

37

SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE

InnovMetric Software
XX. 1 DRAWN

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. Features
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF COMMENTS:
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
FINISH
NEXT ASSY USED ON --
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN
PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE
UNITS: MM SIZE
A
DWG. NO.
INP16002
REV.
-A
IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING SHEET 1 OF 1
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT:

104
 EXERCISE 2: FEATURES

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Create the features required to obtain the

measurements specified on the engineering
drawing.

When a CAD model is available, the nominal

primitive of a feature can be created using the Pick
on CAD Model method.

3. Create the pattern feature.

The pattern feature can be created by preselecting

the circles and then choosing the pattern feature in
the feature creation dialog box.

4. Set the required dimensional controls and

tolerances for the features using the information
provided on the engineering drawing.

105
EXERCISE 2: FEATURES

5. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

6. Perform a surface point alignment to

automatically align the objects to be probed with
the Reference object.

7. Select all features in the Tree View and probe

their measured components. A measured status
icon confirms that the measured component has
been probed.

8. Review the measurement results, select controls,

and create control views to present the results as
shown on the engineering drawing.

9. Create a snapshot and a table from each control

view. Snapshots and tables are automatically
added to a formatted report.

106
 EXERCISE 2: FEATURES

10. Update report, piece, and project properties as

needed. Export the report, from the Report
Editor, in PDF format.

A snapshot of the CAD model can be added to the

cover page of the report before it is exported.

11. (Supplemental) Export selected items from the

formatted report to Excel by right-clicking, then
choosing Export. Then, change the file type to
Microsoft Excel Files, choose a location, and save
the file.

12. Save your project for use in subsequent

exercises.

107
EXERCISE 3: FEATURE-BASED ALIGNMENT – PERPENDICULAR PLANES

Exercise 3: Feature-based alignment –

Perpendicular Planes
Specific features of this sheet metal part need to be controlled
using the dimensions provided on the engineering drawing.
An alignment, reflecting how this sheet metal part is
assembled with its mating parts, will be performed.

First, perform the required alignment using PLANE A, PLANE B,

and PLANE C. Then, obtain the required measurements using
the (x, y, z) coordinates, when applicable, to report the location
of a feature. Finally, create a report that shows the
measurement results in snapshots and report tables.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Engineering drawing

PLANE C
PLANE A

PLANE B

25.40

117.5

63.5
50.8

25.4 18.5
9.5
139.7

SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE

XX. 1 DRAWN InnovMetric Software

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. Feature-based Align.
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
COMMENTS:
Perp. Planes
SCALE 1 : 5
FINISH
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A NEXT ASSY USED ON -- UNITS: MM SIZE DWG. NO. REV.
A INP14007 -B
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN
PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE
IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING SHEET 1 OF 1
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT:

108
 EXERCISE 3: FEATURE-BASED ALIGNMENT – PERPENDICULAR PLANES

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Create the plane features required to perform the

alignment and create the other features needed
to obtain the measurements specified on the
engineering drawing.

3. Set the required dimensional controls and

tolerances for the features using the information
provided on the engineering drawing.

4. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

109
EXERCISE 3: FEATURE-BASED ALIGNMENT – PERPENDICULAR PLANES

5. Perform a surface point alignment to

automatically align the objects to be probed with
the Reference object.

6. Select all features in the Tree View and probe

their measured components.

7. Perform the required Feature-Based alignment

using PLANE A, PLANE B, and PLANE C.

The order used when performing the alignment

determines the priority assigned to each feature.

8. Review the measurement results, select controls,

and create control views to present the results as
shown on the engineering drawing.

9. Create a snapshot and a table from each control

view. Snapshots and tables are automatically
added to a formatted report.

110
 EXERCISE 3: FEATURE-BASED ALIGNMENT – PERPENDICULAR PLANES

10. Update report, piece, and project properties as

needed. Export the report, from the Report
Editor, in PDF format.

A snapshot of the CAD model can be added to the

cover page of the report before it is exported.

11. Save your project for potential use in subsequent

exercises.

111
EXERCISE 4: FEATURE-BASED ALIGNMENT – PLANE, AXIS, CENTER POINT

Exercise 4: Feature-based alignment – Plane, Axis,

Center Point
Specific features of this sheet metal part need to be controlled
using the dimensions provided on the engineering drawing.
An alignment, reflecting how this sheet metal part is
assembled with its mating parts, will be performed.

First, perform the required alignment using PLANE A, then

CIRCLE C, and finally AXIS B, linking CIRCLE C and SLOT D.
Then, obtain the required measurements using the (x, y, z)
coordinates, when applicable, to report the location of a
feature. Finally, create a report that shows the measurement
results.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Engineering drawing

PATTERN OF 5 HOLES 5X 9.52

38.1
(x,y): 139.70, 95.25) 44.5

+0.25
7 0

76.2

SLOT D AXIS B CIRCLE C

PLANE A

SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE

XX. 1 DRAWN InnovMetric Software

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. Feature-based align.
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
COMMENTS:
Plane, Axis, Center Pt.
SCALE 1 : 5
FINISH
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A NEXT ASSY USED ON -- UNITS: MM SIZE DWG. NO. REV.
A IN15009 -A
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN
PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE
IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING SHEET 1 OF 1
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT:

112
 EXERCISE 4: FEATURE-BASED ALIGNMENT – PLANE, AXIS, CENTER POINT

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Create the plane, circle, and line features required

to perform the alignment and create the other
features to obtain the measurements specified
on the engineering drawing.

A line feature can be created from the center points

of center-point-based features, such as circles and
slots.

3. Set the required dimensional controls and

tolerances for the features using the information
provided on the engineering drawing.

4. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

113
EXERCISE 4: FEATURE-BASED ALIGNMENT – PLANE, AXIS, CENTER POINT

5. Perform a surface point alignment to

automatically align the objects to be probed with
the Reference object.

6. Select all features in the Tree View and probe

their measured components.

7. Perform the required Feature-Based alignment

using PLANE A, CIRCLE C, and AXIS B.

8. Review the measurement results, select controls,

and create a control view to present the results as
shown on the engineering drawing.

9. Create a snapshot and a table from the control

view. Snapshots and tables are automatically
added to a formatted report.

114
 EXERCISE 4: FEATURE-BASED ALIGNMENT – PLANE, AXIS, CENTER POINT

10. Update report, piece, and project properties as

needed. Export the report, from the Report
Editor, in PDF format.

A snapshot of the CAD model can be added to the

cover page of the report before it is exported.

11. Save your project for use in subsequent

exercises.

115
EXERCISE 5: BEST-FIT MEASUREMENT OBJECTS ALIGNMENT

Exercise 5: Best-Fit Measurement Objects

alignment
The location of the five-hole pattern of this sheet metal part
needs to be controlled. More specifically, the (x, y) coordinate
values of the center of the measured pattern must be
controlled. An alignment, reflecting how this sheet metal part
is assembled with its mating parts, will be performed.

First, perform the required alignment using the H1, H2, H3,
and H4 circle centers. Then, obtain the (x, y) coordinate values
of the center of the measured pattern. Finally, create a report
that shows the measurement results.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Engineering drawing

5x 9.52 PATTERN OF 5 HOLES

38.1
(x,y): (139.70, 95.25) H1

H2

A
H3

H4
A
VIEW A-A
SCALE 1 : 3
SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE
InnovMetric Software
XX. 1 DRAWN

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. Center-Points
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF COMMENTS:
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
FINISH
NEXT ASSY USED ON --
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN
PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE
UNITS: MM SIZE
A
DWG. NO.
IN15005
REV.
-B
IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING SHEET 1 OF 1
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT:

116
 EXERCISE 5: BEST-FIT MEASUREMENT OBJECTS ALIGNMENT

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Create the H1, H2, H3, and H4 circle features

required to perform the alignment and create the
other circle features to obtain the measurements
specified on the engineering drawing.

3. Create the pattern feature.

4. Set the required dimensional controls and

tolerances for the features using the information
provided on the engineering drawing.

117
EXERCISE 5: BEST-FIT MEASUREMENT OBJECTS ALIGNMENT

5. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

6. Perform a surface point alignment to

automatically align the objects to be probed with
the Reference object.

7. Select all features in the Tree View and probe

their measured components.

8. Select the H1, H2, H3, and H4 circles and perform

a Best-Fit Measurement Objects alignment.

A preselection of the features can be used to

automatically populate the primitives used for the
alignment.

9. Review the measurement results, select controls,

and create a control view to present the results as
shown on the engineering drawing.

118
 EXERCISE 5: BEST-FIT MEASUREMENT OBJECTS ALIGNMENT

10. Create a snapshot and a table from the control

view. Snapshots and tables are automatically
added to a formatted report.

11. Update report, piece, and project properties as

needed. Export the report, from the Report
Editor, in PDF format.

A snapshot of the CAD model can be added to the

cover page of the report before it is exported.

12. Save your project for use in subsequent

exercises.

119
EXERCISE 6: SURFACE COMPARISON POINTS

Exercise 6: Surface comparison points

Deviations need to be measured at specific locations on the
surface of this sheet metal part, as specified on the
engineering drawing. The specified alignment must be used to
report the results.

First, perform the required alignment using PLANE A, then

AXIS B, and finally CIRCLE C. Then, obtain the deviations at the
locations specified on the engineering drawing. All
comparison points should be probed within a 2.5 mm radius.
Finally, create a report that shows the measurement results.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Engineering drawing

Name X Y
pt1 160 120
pt1 pt2
pt2 115 120
pt3 pt4 pt3 160 100
pt4 115 100
pt5 160 75
pt5 pt6 pt8 pt10 pt6 115 75
pt7 pt9 pt7 100 60
pt8 90 60
pt9 75 60
pt10 65 60

AXIS B CIRCLE C PLANE A

SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE

XX. 1 DRAWN InnovMetric Software

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. Surface
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
FINISH
COMMENTS:
comparison points
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A NEXT ASSY USED ON -- UNITS: MM SIZE DWG. NO. REV.
A IN14014 -A
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN
PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE
IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING SHEET 1 OF 1
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT:

120
 EXERCISE 6: SURFACE COMPARISON POINTS

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Create the features required to perform the

alignment specified on the engineering drawing.

A line feature can be created from the center points

of center-point-based features, such as circles and
slots.

3. Create the surface comparison points, using the

numerical creation method, by typing in their (x, y,
z) coordinates.

Whenever one of the coordinates is not provided,

the numerical creation method allows projecting the
created surface comparison point onto one of the
CAD surfaces, along one of the coordinate system
axes.

4. Set the required dimensional controls and

tolerances for the comparison points using the
information provided on the engineering
drawing.

A warning zone can be defined when setting

tolerances.

121
EXERCISE 6: SURFACE COMPARISON POINTS

5. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

6. (Optional) Perform a surface point alignment to

automatically align the objects to be probed with
the Reference object.

7. Select all features in the Tree View and probe

their measured components.

8. Perform the required Feature-Based alignment

using PLANE A, AXIS B, and CIRCLE C.

9. Select all the comparison points in the Tree View

and probe their measured components.

Each comparison point should be probed within a

2.5 mm radius.

122
 EXERCISE 6: SURFACE COMPARISON POINTS

10. Review the measurement results, select controls,

and create a control view to present the results as
shown on the engineering drawing.

11. Create a snapshot and a table from the control

view. Snapshots and tables are automatically
added to a formatted report.

12. Update report, piece, and project properties as

needed. Export the report, from the Report
Editor, in PDF format.

A snapshot of the CAD model can be added to the

cover page of the report before it is exported.

13. Save your project for use in subsequent

exercises.

123
EXERCISE 7: TRIMMED EDGE COMPARISON POINTS (SUPPLEMENTAL)

Exercise 7: Trimmed edge comparison points

(supplemental)
Deviations need to be controlled at specific locations on one
edge of this sheet metal part, as specified on the engineering
drawing. The specified alignment must be used to report the
results.

First, perform the required Datum Reference Frame alignment

using DATUM PLANES A, B, and C. Then, obtain the deviations
at the locations specified on the engineering drawing. To do
so, use the text file provided to set the location of the trimmed
edge comparison points and their linked back points. Finally,
create a report that shows the measurement results.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Engineering drawing

C B A

TRIM POINT 6 TRIM POINT 1

NOTES:
TRIM POINT 5 TRIM POINT 2 1. X,Y,Z LOCATION OF TRIM POINTS (AND
BACKPOINTS) PROVIDED IN TEXT FILE.
TRIM POINT 4 TRIM POINT 3
2. ALL TRIM POINTS TO BE CONTROLLED
WITH THE FOLLOWING TOLERANCES:
Up Tol: +1.5 mm
Up Warn: +1.5 mm
Lo Warn: -1.5 mm
Lo Tol: -1.5 mm

SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE

XX. 1 DRAWN InnovMetric Software

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. Trimmed edge
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
COMMENTS:
comparison points
SCALE 1 : 5
FINISH
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A NEXT ASSY USED ON -- UNITS: MM SIZE DWG. NO. REV.
A INP14028 -A
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN
PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE
IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING SHEET 1 OF 1
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT:

124
 EXERCISE 7: TRIMMED EDGE COMPARISON POINTS (SUPPLEMENTAL)

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Create the datum features required to perform

the alignment specified on the engineering
drawing.

3. Create the trimmed edge comparison points and

their linked back points using the text file
provided.

When creating trimmed edge comparison points

using the From Text File method, it is also possible to
create their linked back points when the
corresponding option is selected in the More section
of the dialog box.

4. Set the required dimensional controls and

tolerances for the comparison points using the
information provided on the engineering
drawing.

125
EXERCISE 7: TRIMMED EDGE COMPARISON POINTS (SUPPLEMENTAL)

5. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

6. (Optional) Perform a surface point alignment to

automatically align the objects to be probed with
the Reference object.

7. Select all features in the Tree View and probe

their measured components.

8. Perform the required Datum Reference Frame

alignment.

9. Select all the comparison points in the Tree View

and probe their measured components.

Each comparison point should be probed within a

2.5 mm radius.

126
 EXERCISE 7: TRIMMED EDGE COMPARISON POINTS (SUPPLEMENTAL)

10. Review the measurement results, select controls,

and create a control view to present the results as
shown on the engineering drawing.

11. Create a snapshot and a table from the control

view. Snapshots and tables are automatically
added to a formatted report.

12. Update report, piece, and project properties as

needed. Export the report, from the Report
Editor, in PDF format.

A snapshot of the CAD model can be added to the

cover page of the report before it is exported.

13. Save your project for use in subsequent

exercises.

127
EXERCISE 8: FEATURES – GD&T

Exercise 8: Features – GD&T

Specific features of this sheet metal part need to be controlled
using the GD&T controls specified on the engineering drawing.

First, perform a surface point alignment to automatically align

the objects to be probed with the Reference object. Then,
define the datum features shown on the engineering drawing
and get the deviation results for the GD&T controls. Finally,
create a report that shows the measurement results in
snapshots and report tables, including a table summarizing
failed controls.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Engineering drawing

5X 9.52 1 7.0 2 3
C
1.0 A B D 1.0 A B C
1.2 A B

5
D
2 A B C
(SLOT)
G H
4 A 6
G H
0.5
2.5 A

SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE

XX. 1 DRAWN InnovMetric Software

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. GD&T
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF COMMENTS:
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
FINISH
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A NEXT ASSY USED ON -- UNITS: MM SIZE DWG. NO. REV.

SCALE 1 : 5 A INP15007 -B
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN
PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE
IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING SHEET 1 OF 1
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT:

128
 EXERCISE 8: FEATURES – GD&T

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Create the datum features based on the

information provided on the engineering
drawing.

Datum labels must be set on the appropriate

features in order to make them available when
specifying Datum Reference Frames.

3. Create the additional features required to obtain

the measurements specified on the engineering
drawing.

4. Set the required dimensional controls and

tolerances for the features using the information
provided on the engineering drawing.

GD&T controls can be set from the Geometry

Controls pane. A specialized navigation tool, the
Feature Navigator, is available to view features that
have controls.

129
EXERCISE 8: FEATURES – GD&T

5. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

6. Perform a surface point alignment to

automatically align the objects to be probed with
the Reference object.

7. Select all features in the Tree View and probe

their measured components.

Although only three probed points are needed to

define a measured plane, more probed points
should be used whenever form or orientation
controls, such as flatness, are assigned to that plane
in order to obtain meaningful results.

8. Review the measurement results, select controls,

and create control views to present the results as
shown on the engineering drawing.

130
 EXERCISE 8: FEATURES – GD&T

9. Create an additional control view using a filter to

display just the failed controls.

10. Create a snapshot and a table from each control

view, starting with a table that summarizes failed
controls. Snapshots and tables are automatically
added to a formatted report.

11. Update report, piece, and project properties as

needed. Export the report, from the Report
Editor, in PDF format.

A snapshot of the CAD model can be added to the

cover page of the report before it is exported.

12. Save your project for use in subsequent

exercises.

131
EXERCISE 9: GD&T – DATUM REFERENCE FRAME ALIGNMENT BY PROBING

Exercise 9: GD&T – Datum Reference Frame

alignment by probing
The (x, y) coordinates of the center of the five-hole pattern
need to be controlled on this sheet metal part. In order to
reproduce how the part is assembled with the mating parts, a
specific Datum Reference Frame alignment combining datum
targets and datum features is needed to report the results.

First, define datum targets A1, A2, A3, as well as datum feature
B and C, and perform a Datum Reference Frame alignment by
probing. Then, obtain the measurements required. Finally,
create a report that shows the measurement results.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Engineering drawing

TARGET X Y Z
A1 160 120 0
PATTERN OF 5 HOLES A2 160 6.35 0
38.1
(x,y): (139.70, 95.25) A3 25.4 76 0

A1 5X 9.5 9.5 X 28.6

(SLOT)
C

A3

9.5

B
A2

SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE

XX. 1 DRAWN InnovMetric Software

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. DRF alignment
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
FINISH
COMMENTS:
Datum targets
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A NEXT ASSY USED ON -- UNITS: MM SIZE DWG. NO. REV.
A IN15025 -A
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN

SCALE 1 : 5 PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE

IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT: SHEET 1 OF 1

132
 EXERCISE 9: GD&T – DATUM REFERENCE FRAME ALIGNMENT BY PROBING

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Set the required dimensional controls and

tolerances for the features using the information
provided on the engineering drawing.

3. Create the datum targets numerically using the

coordinates specified on the engineering
drawing.

4. Create the datum features required to perform

the alignment and the pattern of circles required
to obtain the measurements specified on the
engineering drawing.

133
EXERCISE 9: GD&T – DATUM REFERENCE FRAME ALIGNMENT BY PROBING

5. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

6. Perform the required Datum Reference Frame

alignment by probing. You must first create DRF
ABC so it is available in the drop-down list, and
then align to it.

The radial tolerance on probed datum target points

can be set from the Align Datum Reference Frame by
Probing pane.

7. Select the circle features from the pattern in the

Tree View and probe their measured
components.

8. Review the measurement results, select controls,

and create a control view to present the results as
shown on the engineering drawing.

134
 EXERCISE 9: GD&T – DATUM REFERENCE FRAME ALIGNMENT BY PROBING

9. Create a snapshot and a table from the control

view. Snapshots and tables are automatically
added to a formatted report.

10. Update report, piece, and project properties as

needed. Export the report, from the Report
Editor, in PDF format.

A snapshot of the CAD model can be added to the

cover page of the report before it is exported.

11. Save your project for use in subsequent

exercises.

135
EXERCISE 10: CROSS-SECTIONS (SUPPLEMENTAL)

Exercise 10: Cross-sections (supplemental)

A line profile inspection needs to be performed at two specific
locations on this sheet metal part, as shown on the
engineering drawing. The specified alignment must be used to
report the results.

First, perform the required alignment using PLANE A, PLANE B,

and PLANE C. Then, measure the required line profiles, as
shown on the engineering drawing. Points need to be probed
within 2.0 mm of the cross-section plane in order to define the
measured component of the cross-section. Finally, take
snapshots of the cross-sections and report the results.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Engineering drawing

PLANE C PLANE B

16.9
PLANE A

F F
118.5

E E

2 2
A B C D

A C
SECTION E-E SECTION F-F

B D

SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE

XX. 1 DRAWN InnovMetric Software

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. Cross-sections
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF COMMENTS:

SCALE 1 : 5
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
FINISH
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A NEXT ASSY USED ON -- UNITS: MM SIZE DWG. NO. REV.
A INP14018 -A
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN
PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE
IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING SHEET 1 OF 1
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT:

136
 EXERCISE 10: CROSS-SECTIONS (SUPPLEMENTAL)

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Create the features required to perform the

alignment and obtain the measurements
specified on the engineering drawing.

3. Create cross-section E-E and cross-section F-F

based on the information specified on the
engineering drawing.

Cross-sections can be created from planes that are

offset from Plane C.

4. Set the required Line Profile controls and

tolerances using the information provided on the
engineering drawing.

The line profile is set as a dimensional control using

the Geometry Controls pane.

137
EXERCISE 10: CROSS-SECTIONS (SUPPLEMENTAL)

5. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

6. (Optional) Perform a surface point alignment to

automatically align the objects to be probed with
the Reference object.

7. Select all features in the Tree View and probe

their measured components.

8. Perform the required feature-based alignment

using PLANE A, PLANE B, and PLANE C.

138
 EXERCISE 10: CROSS-SECTIONS (SUPPLEMENTAL)

9. Probe the measured components of the cross-

sections. Points need to be probed within 2.0 mm
of the cross-section plane in order to define the
measured component of a cross-section.

The projection distance of probed points can be

edited using their property sheet before probing the
cross-sections.

10. Review the measurement results, select controls,

and create control views to present the results as
shown on the engineering drawing.

11. Create a snapshot and a table from each control

view, starting with a table that summarizes failed
controls. Snapshots and tables are automatically
added to a formatted report.

12. Update report, piece, and project properties as

needed. Export the report, from the Report
Editor, in PDF format.

A snapshot of the CAD model can be added to the

cover page of the report before it is exported.

13. Save your project for use in subsequent

exercises.

139
EXERCISE 11: BUILD AND INSPECT (SUPPLEMENTAL)

Exercise 11: Build and Inspect (supplemental)

This sheet metal part needs to be moved to a specific location
on the table for assembly purposes. The proper location is set
using the center points of two key circles present on the part.
Only the (x, y) coordinates of each point are considered in the
process of locating the part on the table.

Use the key steps provided in order to move the part to the
proper location, shown in the illustration below. Note that this
exercise is primarily intended to be performed with a laser
tracker, using a reflector that has a diameter larger than the
two circles.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Illustration

140
 EXERCISE 11: BUILD AND INSPECT (SUPPLEMENTAL)

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

3. Probe three planes that define the surface and

two sides of the table.

4. Create a coordinate system using these three

planes. The Z axis must be set along the normal
of the surface of the table.

5. Create two point features using the (x, y)

coordinates of circle 1 and circle 2.

141
EXERCISE 11: BUILD AND INSPECT (SUPPLEMENTAL)

6. In the Build/Inspect mode, assign the proper

tolerances to the X and Y values of the point
features. The center points of two key circles,
which are used to move the part to a specific
location, must be within 0.050 in. of the nominal
location of the point features.

Tolerances for distances can either be set in the

options prior to creating the feature on which the
Build/Inspect mode is launched, or directly using the
Build/Inspect Objects pane.

7. Locate the reflector in circle 1 and physically

move the part. Use feedback provided by the
Build/Inspect mode to make sure both the X and
Y values are within the specified tolerances.

8. Repeat the last step with circle 2 this time. Try to

keep circle 1 where it was so that both circles are
within tolerance.
Once the Build/Inspect mode is launched for
multiple objects, object selection can either be set to
Specific or to Auto-detect.

9. When finished, the part should be properly

positioned on the table.

142
 EXERCISE 12: MEASUREMENT POINTS AND OBJECT CONTROL SPC (SUPPLEMENTAL)

Exercise 12: Measurement points and object

control SPC (supplemental)
Specific features on this sheet metal part need to be
controlled. Four pieces have been produced and the trend of
the dimensional controls needs to be analyzed. In order to
obtain meaningful results, each measurement of the part
must be performed in the exact same way.

First, obtain the measurements for the first piece. Then,

repeat the measurements for the other pieces using the New
Piece tool, making sure the same locations are used when
probing each piece. Finally, create a report that shows the
measurement results for all pieces.

Dataset

Reference object: IMPart.igs

Engineering drawing

7.0 C
1.0 A B C 1.2 A B

9.5

34.9
A
0.5

2.5 A
+0.5
37 0

SURFACES: 1 NAME DATE

XX. 1 DRAWN InnovMetric Software

XX.X 0.5 CHECKED

XX.XX 0.25 ENG APPR.

IMPart
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL ANGULAR: 2° MFG APPR.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS

MATERIAL
--
Q.A. Object Control SPC
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF COMMENTS:
INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE.
FINISH
ANY REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A NEXT ASSY USED ON -- UNITS: MM SIZE DWG. NO. REV.

SCALE 1 : 5 A INP16012 -A
WHOLE WITHOUT THE WRITTEN
PERMISSION OF INNOVMETRIC SOFTWARE
IS PROHIBITED. APPLICATION DO NOT SCALE DRAWING SHEET 1 OF 1
SCALE:1:2 WEIGHT:

143
EXERCISE 12: MEASUREMENT POINTS AND OBJECT CONTROL SPC (SUPPLEMENTAL)

Key steps

1. Import the CAD model of the IMPart.

2. Create the features required to get the

measurements specified on the engineering
drawing.

3. Set the required dimensional controls and

tolerances for the features using the information
provided on the engineering drawing.

4. Select your probing device from the list and click

the button to connect to the device.

144
 EXERCISE 12: MEASUREMENT POINTS AND OBJECT CONTROL SPC (SUPPLEMENTAL)

5. (Optional) Perform a surface point alignment to

automatically align the objects to be probed with
the Reference object.

6. Select all features in the Tree View and probe

their measured components.

Several points describing the complete surface of

plane A should be probed in order to obtain a
meaningful result for the flatness measurement.

7. Set the point acquisition to the guided mode

using the property sheet of each probed object.
Define measurement points using the probed
data points of the first piece.

8. Obtain the same measurements for the three

other pieces using the New Piece tool.

Several pieces can be added to the same

PolyWorks|Inspector project using the New Piece
tool.

145
EXERCISE 12: MEASUREMENT POINTS AND OBJECT CONTROL SPC (SUPPLEMENTAL)

9. Visualize how control results on the selected

features change among the different pieces by
looking at the Object Control SPC Results.

10. Create a report table, which is automatically

added to a formatted report, that contains the
inspection results for all pieces.

Results can be reported in a single table (One Table)

or with all features in separate tables (N Tables).

11. Export the report, from the Report Editor, in PDF

format.

A snapshot of the CAD model can be added to the

cover page of the report before it is exported.

146
PolyWorks keyboard shortcuts

General interfaces

Select objects mode CTRL+SHIFT+SPACEBAR

Quit interactive modes ESC

File >
Save project CTRL+S

Edit >
Undo CTRL+Z Delete >
Redo CTRL+Y Objects SHIFT+DEL
Remove Transformation CTRL+SHIFT+Z Elements DEL
Undos

Select >
Objects > Elements >
All CTRL+SHIFT+A All CTRL+A
Invert CTRL+SHIFT+I Invert CTRL+I
None CTRL+SHIFT+N None CTRL+N
Interactively SPACEBAR

View >
Hide > Keep>
Objects CTRL+SHIFT+D Objects CTRL+SHIFT+K
Elements CTRL+D Elements CTRL+K
Restore > Center >
Objects CTRL+SHIFT+R Objects CTRL+SHIFT+C
Elements CTRL+R All Objects CTRL+C

Specific interfaces

PolyWorks|Inspector PolyWorks|Modeler
Select > Polygons >
Data Points > Repair >
Measured Data CTRL+M Reconstruct SHIFT+R
Points
Drag annotations ALT+left-click

147