3D Measuring Arms: Tactile and Optical Flexibility on the Shop Floor

A 3D measuring arm, also known as an articulated arm or portable CMM, is a coordinate measurement system that combines the mobility of a human arm with the precision of a traditional measuring machine. Composed of several segments connected by encoded joints, it allows the operator to point a probe at any point on the part and instantly obtain X, Y, and Z coordinates with high accuracy. Its carbon fibre construction and integrated thermal compensation make it stable and reliable even in harsh factory floor conditions.

The true strength of these devices lies in their versatility. Modern measurement arms can be equipped with rigid ruby probes for tactile inspection of primary geometries, but also with laser scanning heads to capture free-form surfaces and generate point clouds. This duality makes them the ideal tool for quality control, reverse engineering, tool alignment, pipe inspection and even large-scale assemblies when combined with laser trackers. At S4METRO, we distribute and support the FARO ranges, ensuring the right choice for every industrial application.