EasyFix Modular CMM Fixture System

Co-ordinate measuring machines are an essential tool in modern production companies.

In order to get the best productivity out of a CMM, component fixturing is essential to speed up the loading of parts, and to enable the CMM to measure the component quickly and with acceptable repeatability "in one shot". However, the cost of fixturing is often prohibitive, particularly in short run situations or one-off investigative work, where a purpose designed fixture can be expensive, particularly if it is dedicated to one part.

The EasyFix Modular Fixture System is a unique solution, providing CMM users with a flexible toolbox of clamping and support components that can easily be combined to hold just about any type of part. The system has no boundaries, with a vast array of standard components that can easily cope with parts of any size. As the system is truly modular, the user has the freedom to purchase individual items as and when they are required.

The standard kits consist of various selections of clamps and supports, with some also including the patented EasyFix base plate and a "quick-lock" vice. Additional components can be purchased individually, although the standard kits provide the benefit of large overall cost savings.

The system is based on the patented EasyFix base plate, which incorporates a series of M8 threaded location holes on a 50mm x 50mm rectangular array. Each plate is enhanced by a laser etched grid, such that hole location is simple, and a step joint which enables several plates to be quickly joined to form a single, rigid base of any size for larger components.

The modularity of the system enables fixtures to be built in a matter of minutes. Having built a fixture, the user can easily modify or adapt the solution to suit CMM probing requirements. EasyFix does not require the use of a specialised tool room, saving enormous amounts of time and money. Once a fixture is no longer required, it can quickly be broken down, and all components can be re-used on a totally new fixture. If the fixture is to be re-used in the future, there is absolutely no need to store the fixture - the user simply documents the fixture with the easy to use Windows software. In this way, financial investment is kept to a minimum.

As an added benefit, the optional Rainbow software provides users with an easy to use computer aided design and documentation tool.

We can provide solutions either as standard kits, individual items or alternatively as a turnkey "design and build" project. Several examples of typical applications are shown below ...