The conventional 3D measuring machine maintained its accuracy in a measurement room where dustproof measures were conducted. The MACH-3A has eliminated problems in the drive system caused by dust and mist by covering the drive section and changing each axis guide from conventional air bearings to linear guides.
Moreover, the control unit and PC for measurement are embedded in the dedicated cabin and dust resistance has been enhanced assuming that the machine is used for 24 hours a day. Responding to changes in temperature is necessary to conduct highly precise measurement with a 3D measuring machine. The object to be measured expands or contracts depending on its temperature, but the dimensions at the standard temperature of 20°C are required as the measurement result. Mitutoyo's 3D measuring machine is equipped with a temperature sensor as standard equipment; accordingly, it can measure the temperature of a workpiece that is the object to be measured in real time, and the result is then converted to the dimensions at 20°C and is output.
The machine is used at a manufacturing site; therefore, the temperature of a workpiece is different from that of a machine depending on each process such as machining and washing and is always changing. To support measurement in-line and beside a line, precise measurement is required even in the transition period when the workpiece shape is changing immediately after these processes.
The MACH-3A can control the temperature correction while measuring a workpiece (Fig. 2) with the temperature in real time, enabling accuracy assurance in the wide temperature environment (5 to 40°C) required at manufacturing sites and other such locations.

Fig. 2 MACH-3A, workpiece measurement in progress

The MACH-3A is a horizontal 3D measuring machine featuring a compact design considering installation at manufacturing sites where apparatuses are concentrated. Because of the integrated structure equipped with the control unit and PC for data processing, moving the machine is simple for layout changes. Introducing the horizontal 3D enables users to take the same transport route as for machining equipment.（Fig. 3）。

Fig. 3 Image of MACH-3A to be introduced

This machine has achieved the quality control required at manufacturing sites with an industry-leading high speed drive that enables inspecting all items, provides high dustproof performance with a totally new design structure and uses a temperature correction technique, enabling accuracy assurance in a wide temperature environment as mentioned above, in addition to other features.
Market needs include higher precision and more efficient measurement by shortening the time in the field of measurement; the diversified technologies and functions of 3D measuring machines mentioned above and required at manufacturing sites are just one solution for these needs. Mitutoyo will continue to keep pace with market needs and develop new equipment that contributes to customer productivity in the future. Mitutoyo will contribute to society through precise measurement as the future of monozukuri evolves.