The field of Geometric Measurement Systems is very broad. In this section, the components of a GMS, as well as a classification for possible implementations, will be shown. The structures described here are exemplary. There may be further or future classifications for which this Companion Specification can still be used, and a GMS may contain further components or subsystems. Figure 2 contains an overview of the common components. It does not claim to be complete.
According to Figure 2, there are seven different main types of common components of a GMS (green). They may also be split into different subtypes (grey). The main types are defined as:
- The GMS consists of an instrument that comprises one or more sensors (4.2.7).
- Environmental control [VDI 2627] requires additional sensors (4.2.8)).
- Part carrier & fixtures: enable a strict control and fixed reference in space and time - the coordinate systems - between measured component and measurement system.
- Accessories enable the GMS to function according to the production plan.
- Safety devices enable the GMS to observe its environment and prevent it from harming the operator or the measured part.
Figure 3 contains the classification of a GMS and divide the GMS into manual measurement instruments [ISO 14978], surface texture measuring instruments [ISO 25178], multi point measuring instruments, coordinate measuring systems [ISO 10360] and special systems. The gauges [ISO 1938] are treated as manual instruments. The list of applicable GMS does not claim to be complete.
Figure 3 – Classification of GMS used in this Companion Specification