Probe of the Month: March 2007

This dual calibration sphere stand is used to qualify stylus clusters on Zeiss CMMs equipped with the VAST Navigator probe system. According to a Zeiss representative, VAST Navigator requires each stylus to scan the calibration sphere twice: once at standard speed, and again at very high speed. The pre-defined scan path on the sphere runs in several directions. When using multiple styli, the dual sphere arrangement allows for complete, uninterrupted multi-stylus CNC qualification. It eliminates the need to re-orient a single sphere to prevent individual stylus "shanking".

The stand is Q-Mark part number CAL-DKMB-DE. The cost is just $270.00. It's made of solid stainless steel and includes a stainless M12 cap screw for mounting to the CMM table. The stands are in stock and ready for immediate delivery. Calibration spheres, from 5 mm to 30 mm diameter, are sold separately.