// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM

Metrology

The scientific study of measurement, including the development of measurement standards and techniques.

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TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Metrology is the scientific study of measurement, encompassing the theoretical and practical aspects of measurement science, including the establishment of measurement units, standards, and the development of measurement instruments and techniques for accuracy and precision.

BACKGROUND

Metrology is the scientific study of measurement. It establishes a common understanding of units, crucial in linking human activities. Modern metrology has its roots in the French Revolution's political motivation to standardise units in France when a length standard taken from a natural source was proposed. This led to the creation of the decimal-based metric system in 1795, establishing a set of standards for other types of measurements. Several other countries adopted the metric system between 1795 and 1875; to ensure conformity between the countries, the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) was established by the Metre Convention. This has evolved into the International System of Units (SI) as a result of a resolution at the 11th General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM) in 1960.

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SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • Measurement science
  • Precision measurement
  • Dimensional inspection
  • Calibration
  • Quality measurement

USAGE NOTE

Essential for ensuring product quality, interchangeability, and compliance with international standards.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Metrology.

  • Carl Zeiss Industrial Metrology

    Develops and manufactures high-precision measuring machines, including coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), optical and computed tomography (CT) systems, and metrology software for quality assurance in various industries.

  • Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence

    Provides a comprehensive portfolio of measurement and inspection solutions, including CMMs, laser trackers, optical scanners, portable measuring arms, and software for data integration in smart factories and quality control.

  • Renishaw plc

    Specializes in precision measurement systems, including contact and non-contact probes for CMMs and machine tools, position encoders, laser calibration, and advanced manufacturing solutions that leverage metrology.

  • Keyence Corporation

    Develops and manufactures a wide range of industrial automation and inspection equipment, including vision systems, sensors, digital microscopes, and high-accuracy measurement systems for in-line quality control and process monitoring.

  • Mitutoyo Corporation

    A global leader in precision measuring equipment, offering a vast array of products from hand tools (calipers, micrometers) to advanced CMMs, optical measuring instruments, and vision measuring systems used in manufacturing.

  • FARO Technologies

    Provides 3D measurement, imaging, and realization solutions, including portable CMMs, laser scanners, and software for inspection, reverse engineering, and construction, crucial for precision manufacturing.

  • Nikon Metrology

    Offers advanced metrology solutions, including CMMs, optical measurement systems, laser scanners, and X-ray/CT inspection systems for a wide range of industrial and manufacturing applications requiring high precision.

  • National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

    A U.S. government agency that advances measurement science, standards, and technology. NIST conducts foundational research in metrology that underpins precision manufacturing and Industry 5.0 initiatives.

  • Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology (IPT)

    A research organization that develops innovative solutions for production processes, including advanced metrology systems, quality assurance, and inline inspection technologies specifically for industrial applications and smart manufacturing.

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