Hexagon Metrology has launched a new generation of its software, PC-DMIS 2013, which focuses on the collection and presentation of manufacturing data to reduce scrap, improve throughput and generally help build lean manufacturing operations, says the company.

The new version includes the construction of width features from two opposing sides of a notch, tab or similar surface, useful in applications that require the width as a datum. 2-Dl width features can be secondary and tertiary datums, while a 3-D width can be used as the primary datum, says the company.

Other enhancements include a feature that allows collision-free movement around complex geometries without a CAD model, says Hexagon.

The company has also introduced new measurement software for portable arm and CMMs. Users of PC-DMIS Touch physically interact with measurement sequences, feature variables and report templates, says the company.