Possible automation of making measuring plans

[[Da...]]

Hello everyone,

I have been programming measurement plans for very similar parts. I receive a model and an .xml file from which I create a .para file containing all dimensions and their tolerances. By loading these files, I can use pre-made characteristics with formulas referencing the dimensions and tolerances, which greatly speeds up my work compared to manually entering each Nominal/Actual value and Upper/Lower tolerance.

My question is: is it possible to create measurement plans solely by loading these .para files, perhaps without using the model, and using pre-made planes with formulas that include the data from the .para files? Additionally, the differences in dimensions are very small, sometimes within 1mm.

Thank you in advance.

[[Cl...]]

Are you talking about a single program used to measure a family
of parts that have identical geometry, but grow or shrink in size?

[[Da...]]

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No, different parts but with same characteristics and features only a small differences of elevation dimensions...

[[Cl...]]

OK. Sounds like you do have PCM?

[[Ri...]]

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This is highly possible, I inherited a very complex set of programs (7 programs) that dives deep into the PCM and para world.
The range of parts is in the high 30's with varying lengths, diameters, bore patterns, you name it and these programs probably are doing it.
There are probably 20+ pages of PCM code to view tied to features and or characteristics, Post and Pre settings, Clearance Planes, Base Alignments, Start Alignments, etc.
I had to study and map all the pre and post settings because it wasn't notated.

All of this is controlled via AutoRun and a custom Menu (VB.net), and Excel parameter files.