Vibration damper for coordinate measuring machine

摘要

A coordinate measuring machine has a single vertical column mounted to a horizontal table for moving in the x-direction, and a carriage mounted on the column for vertical movement in the z-direction. The column is moved with a motor that drives a rack and pinion. The carriage supports a y-rail that moves in the y-direction. A first damper is positioned over the z-rail in the -y direction so that the column is intermediate the damper and the probe. A second damper is positioned at an end of the y-rail near the probe. The dampers reduce both large amplitude transients, as well as steady-state vibrations that are caused by the motor cogging and gearing between the motor and the rack and pinion.