What is a probe?

What is a probe?

Probing is traditionally associated with contact probes that are used for dimensional measurement (metrology) on co-ordinate measuring machines (CMMs).

The first application of the original contact probe was in solving complex dimensional QA problems for the Rolls-Royce Olympus engines used on Concorde.

A probe is effectively an elaborate switch, designed to trigger on contact with a component surface, providing accurate, repeatable geometric data. Obtaining and interrogating this data throughout the manufacturing process can help to ensure components remain within conformance limits.

Accurate – deviating only slightly or within acceptable limits from a standard.

Precise (repeatable) – exact, as in performance, execution, or amount: accurate or correct.

For more information on probe technology, see the Further reading section, or
(TE411) Innovations in touch trigger probe sensor technology.