Apparatus and method for measuring a workpiece

A method for measuring a workpiece using an apparatus including a control and evaluation unit coupled with a measuring sensor and an electromechanical drive mechanism for displacing said measuring sensor in three coordinate directions in relation to said workpiece, said control and evaluation unit including a first timer and said measuring sensor including a second timer, said first and said second timer operating independently of each other, the method comprising the steps of:

• generating machine measuring values (xi, yi, zi) with said control and evaluation unit;
• generating said sensor measuring values (x′i, Y′i, z′i) with said measuring sensor;
• and,
• synchronizing said first timer and said second timer.

An apparatus for measuring a workpiece, the apparatus comprising:

• a control and evaluation unit;
• a measuring sensor operating independently of said control and evaluation unit;
• an electromechanical mechanism operatively connected to said control and evaluation unit for displacing said measuring sensor in three coordinate directions (x, y, z) relative to said workpiece;
• a first timer mounted in said control and evaluation unit and a second timer mounted in said measuring sensor for synchronizing said measuring sensor and said control and evaluation unit;
• said first and second timers operating independently of each other;
• and,
• a synchronizing device for synchronizing said first timer and said second timer to a common start time point.