AiVibeWorkpiece Probing (Touch Probe)
Workpiece probing uses a spindle-mounted touch probe that signals the CNC when its stylus contacts a surface. The control records the position to set work offsets, find part alignment or measure features in the machine.
A touch probe is loaded into the spindle like a tool. When the stylus is deflected by contact with the workpiece, the probe sends a trigger signal by optical, radio or cable transmission, and the control latches the axis positions at that instant, using a skip function such as G31 on FANUC-style controls. Probing cycles, usually supplied as macros by the probe maker or machine builder, convert these points into edges, bore centres, widths, heights and angles.
Probing is used to set work offsets automatically, measure and compensate part rotation, check stock before machining, measure features during the cycle and update wear offsets, and confirm critical dimensions before a part is unloaded. It reduces manual setup errors and is a key enabler of unattended and automated machining.
Probes must be calibrated so that the control knows the effective stylus radius and trigger characteristics, and calibration should be repeated after stylus changes or collisions. On-machine measurement shares the machine's own geometric and thermal errors, so it complements rather than replaces independent inspection on a coordinate measuring machine where traceable results are required.
Key points
- A spindle probe triggers the control to latch axis positions on contact
- Sets work offsets, finds rotation and measures features in process
- Probe cycles are usually macros from the probe maker or builder
- Needs calibration and shares the machine's own errors
Where AiVibe comes in
AiVibe designs and manufactures the AiAmbA AI Factory: edge devices plus AI agents that let people talk to CNC, PLC and robot controllers in plain language. Agents only propose changes, and a trained operator confirms each one.
Related terms
- Work Offset (Work Coordinate System, G54 to G59)CNC & Precision Machining
- Macro Programming (Parametric Programming)CNC & Precision Machining
- Tool Presetting and Tool SettingCNC & Precision Machining
- Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)CNC & Precision Machining
- Tool WearCNC & Precision Machining