Uncertainty associated with form assessment in coordinate metrology

In this paper, we describe techniques for evaluating the uncertainties associated with the assessment of form error, i.e., the departure from ideal geometry of a manufactured part, in coordinate metrology. The techniques take into account measurement uncertainty, sampling effects due to the fact that the form error is determined from a finite set of coordinate data points, and the spatial correlation of the form errors. The techniques are designed to be practical, without the need for complex computation.