scope:

Objective and scope

This part of guideline VDI/VDE 2631 describes a standard method allowing to determine and to document, by means of straightness measurements, any changes in the metrological characteristics (accuracy, stability) of a form-measuring instrument.

This guideline applies to form-measuring instruments. Form measurements using coordinate-measuring machines are described in VDI/VDE 2617 Part 2.2.

The method for measurement of straightness deviations of linear guides described here is suitable for acceptance inspection (inspection of the form-measuring instrument in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications) and for checking the stability of formmeasuring instruments. The measurement result contains influences which vary depending on the test object, the instrument and the site; separating these contributions is impossible, or possible to a limited extent only. The actual condition as well as changes in the metrological characteristics of the form-measuring instrument at the current site can be determined by means of documenting the measurement results. Among other things, this allows quick and easy detection of changes, for example due to changed ambient conditions (climatic influences, vibration excitation, etc.), whereupon action can be taken in order to improve the measuring conditions or to remedy any faults.