System and method for workpiece coordinate measurements

A method for conducting uninterrupted coordinate measurements on workpieces using a CMM comprising the steps of:

• providing a stationary platform having a measurement area and a setup area, said measurement area containing one or more locator stops disposed in predetermined locations in the measurement area;
• providing a first movable platform and a second movable platform disposed on the stationary platform, said each movable platform comprising at least one positioning locator;
• providing transport means for the first movable platform and for the second movable platform;
• positioning a first workpiece on the first movable platform, said first movable platform being positioned in a first setup position in the setup area;
• conveying said first movable platform from the first setup position to a first measurement position on the stationary platform;
• activating the CMM to begin coordinate measurements;
• while the CMM performs the measurements, positioning a second workpiece on the second movable platform said second movable platform being positioned in a second setup position in the setup area;
• when CMM measurements are completed, conveying the first movable platform from the first measurement position back to the first setup position;
• conveying the second movable platform from the second setup position to a second measurement position on the stationary platform;
• activating the CMM to begin coordinate measurements;
• and
• when CMM measurements are completed, conveying the second movable platform from the second measurement position back to the second setup position.