Overview
EN ISO 10360-102:2026, titled Geometrical product specifications (GPS) - Acceptance and reverification tests for coordinate measuring systems (CMS) - Part 102: Grammar of symbols for metrological characteristics and their specifications, is an internationally recognized standard developed by CEN and ISO. It defines the grammar, or systematic rules, for creating symbols that denote metrological characteristics and their specifications within the ISO 10360 series. The standard enhances consistency and clarity in symbols used for coordinate measuring systems (CMSs), supporting accurate communication and interoperability in measurement-related documentation.
Key Topics
- Grammar of Symbols (G3): EN ISO 10360-102:2026 specifies detailed rules for assembling symbols that represent metrological characteristics of CMSs. The grammar ensures that each symbol unambiguously encodes information about the measurement characteristic, test procedures, applicable technologies, and type of specification.
- Symbol Components: The standard describes the structure of G3 symbols, which typically includes:
- Characteristic symbol component (e.g., feature measured)
- Procedure symbol component (e.g., testing method specifics)
- Technology symbol component (e.g., type of CMS technology: tactile, optical)
- Specification symbol component (e.g., MPE or MPL)
- Comparability: By enforcing a systematic approach to symbols, the standard supports meaningful comparison of metrological characteristics and specifications across different types and technologies of CMSs.
- Syntax and Structure: Guidance is given for symbol sequence, use of subscripts and separators, handling of void (empty) symbol components, and conventions for abbreviations.
- Plain-Text and Reduced Symbols: The standard details alternatives for symbol rendering, including plain-text formatting for technical documentation and reduced symbols for contexts where technology is self-evident.
Applications
EN ISO 10360-102:2026 is vital in industries where geometrical product specifications, coordinate measuring systems, and standardized measurement documentation are critical. Practical applications include:
- Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) Documentation: Manufacturers, calibration laboratories, and testing facilities use standardized G3 symbols for reporting measurement results, acceptance, and reverification tests according to various parts of the ISO 10360 series.
- Interoperability and Communication: The grammar enables clear and machine-readable exchange of measurement specifications and results between organizations, suppliers, and clients.
- Specification Sheets and Technical Product Documentation: The use of standardized symbols ensures that requirements for product geometry and CMS performance are clear and consistent, reducing ambiguity.
- Development and Revision of Standards: Technical committees use EN ISO 10360-102:2026 when drafting or updating related standards to maintain internal consistency across the entire ISO 10360 series.
Related Standards
Organizations using EN ISO 10360-102:2026 may also reference:
- ISO 10360 Series: This series covers acceptance and reverification tests for various CMS technologies, such as tactile CMMs and optical measuring systems.
- ISO 80000-1: Quantities and units - General rules for the use of quantities and units, which influences the symbol grammar.
- ISO 14978: General concepts and requirements for GPS measuring equipment.
- ISO/IEC Guide 99 (VIM): The International Vocabulary of Metrology, providing standardized terminology.
- ISO 8015: Fundamental rules of GPS.
- ISO 14253-1: Decision rules for verifying conformity with specifications.
- ISO 14638: ISO GPS matrix model, offering an overview of the GPS system and its standards interactions.
Summary
EN ISO 10360-102:2026 provides essential guidance for creating and interpreting symbols related to metrological characteristics in the context of coordinate measuring systems. Its systematic grammar ensures consistency, clarity, and comparability of specifications, supporting quality assurance, interoperability, and precise communication across industries reliant on advanced measurement technologies. Adopting this standard helps organizations streamline their documentation practices in line with international best practices for geometrical product specification.
