Startup Idea: Software for Efficient CMM Testing Set-up Management

Startup idea to develop a software that graphically tracks and manages multiple testing set-ups on a CMM table. The software will provide a 3D representation to avoid overlaps, promoting efficient use of space, preventing damage and eliminating the need for an operator to mentally keep track of the set-ups.

This idea is related to testing of manufactured parts using a CMM. A company such as mine is often required to use multiple set-up on one CMM table. Their is only so much room on the table and we often have to find extra 'real estate' on the table without interfering with the set-ups that are currently in use. In other words, we cannot allow various set-ups and fixtures used for those set-ups to interfere with each other. If they do, it could results in damage to the CMM probe. If there was a way to track which set-ups are in use on one table, maybe in a graphical representation showing the x-y-z axis maximum space for each set-up, it would prevent damage and would also not require a CMM operator keep all the different set-ups currently in use in his head. Rather, he could use the software to anticipate any conflicts, or overlap, that may cause damage, or break probe tip in this case. Some companies would not have this problem, but for very busy places that must use a single CMM for various inspection would find it useful. Maybe this software could be used in conjunction with PC-DMIS software, for instance.