Overview
EN ISO 10360-6:2001 / ISO 10360-6 is part of the Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS) series that defines acceptance and reverification tests for software used to compute Gaussian (least-squares) associated features from coordinate data. The standard specifies a software-only test method that assesses errors in the parameters produced for associated features such as lines, planes, circles (2D/3D), spheres, cylinders, cones and tori. Tests are based on applying the software to predefined reference data sets and comparing computed results with reference values.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope of features: line (2D/3D), plane, circle (2D/3D), sphere, cylinder, cone, torus. Tests can target complete or non‑extremely partial features. Very large-apex-angle cones are excluded.
- Software-only testing: independent of the CMM hardware; evaluates the correctness of computed associated‑feature parameters (size, form, location, orientation).
- Gaussian associated features: the procedure applies specifically to unconstrained least‑squares (Gaussian) fitting algorithms.
- Reference data sets: normative procedure (Annex A) for generating reference coordinate data sets; results are compared to reference parameter values.
- Numerical uncertainty & compliance: the standard addresses numerical uncertainty, test parameter conversion, and rules for determining compliance and issuing test certificates.
- Documentation and traceability: tests produce performance values and certificates that can be compared against CMM size‑measurement errors (ISO 10360‑2) to judge software suitability.
- Normative/Informative annexes: Annex A (normative) - procedure for reference data; Annex B (informative) - relation to the GPS matrix model.
Practical applications
- Validate metrology software that computes fitted geometrical features from CMM point clouds.
- Provide acceptance testing for new software modules and reverification after software updates or suspected corruption.
- Support quality control and conformity assessment workflows where fitted-feature parameters feed inspection decisions.
- Aid integrators and calibration labs in separating software error from CMM hardware error when diagnosing measurement chains.
Who should use this standard
- CMM and coordinate‑measurement system manufacturers and integrators
- Metrology software developers and testers
- Calibration laboratories and conformity assessment bodies
- Quality engineers, inspection managers and manufacturing engineers who rely on fitted-feature outputs for tolerancing and decision rules
Related standards and keywords
- Related ISO/GPS family: ISO 10360-1, ISO 10360-2, ISO 14253-1, ISO 14660-1/2
- Useful SEO keywords: EN ISO 10360-6:2001, ISO 10360-6, CMM software test, Gaussian associated features, coordinate measuring machines, acceptance test, reverification, metrology software validation.
