Learn how to edit and create CMM templates tailored to your machine for seamless data import and enhanced inspection accuracy.
In this article, we will focus on steps to take in order to create a CMM Template which can read data from your CMM machine. We will also see how to open and setup CMM Task Pane to work with same.
OPENING THE CMM TASK PANE
In SOLIDWORKS® Inspection Professional standalone, open your inspection project.
To turn on CMM Data Import, go to Home > Options.
Go to the General page.
On the General page under Add-ins, select the Measurements Input and CMM Data Import option > Apply > OK.
On the right side you will see CMM Data Import task pane.
SETTING UP CMM TEMPLATES
In order to read the CMM data, we first need a template (.xml) which can read the CMM data outputted from machine (like ‘Dukin.txt’ generated from Dukin’s CMM machine). If there is mis-match in the template that we are using and the CMM file that’s generated, it will give us and error ‘Failed to load one of the selected CMM results files. Please…..’.
Now this error could be due to following two reasons:
1. Machine is available in default template list :
First, we will check if SOLIDWORKS Inspection already has the template to read our CMM data (Dukin.txt).
To do so please go to the ‘CMM Data Import’ task pane, click ‘Settings’. In the ‘Settings’ dialog box, to view a list of existing template names, under ‘Template Control’, click the drop-down arrow. Here you will find template list for more than 60 CMM machines. If you see the name of your CMM machine that please select.
If you do not find your machine in default list, please see refer word file ‘CMM Template List‘ where I have shared list of some template that were built internally. If you find your machine, please create an SR asking the Template file (.xml).
2. Machine is not available in default template:
If your machine is not available in any of the lists of default templates. We will have to create a new template as per the output data of your machine, by editing any of the existing template which is close to your machine output.
Please download and refer the attached pdf file (Part1 and Part2), where we have explained on how to edit various templates for different machines. Following this you can create template for your machine. If you find any difficulties or any issues please contact Technical Support.
This guide on mastering CMM template creation in SOLIDWORKS® Inspection is incredibly helpful, especially for anyone looking to streamline their inspection process. The step-by-step approach makes it easy to follow along, and I appreciate how it covers both existing templates and creating new ones if needed. It’s also great to see that there's a focus on troubleshooting common errors, like mismatches between the template and CMM file output. The clear instructions on setting up the CMM Task Pane and adjusting templates are sure to save a lot of time and headaches. Definitely bookmarking this for future reference!