Within a metrology inspection environment, fixturing is a three-step process of positioning, locating and securing a workpiece within a measuring volume for inspection. 

A wide range of single-purpose point sensors such as proximity sensors, lasers and photocells have long played a key role in virtually all factory automation systems by detecting the presence of parts or assemblies, performing measurements and identifying colors, among other tasks. 

Machine vision systems create images by analyzing the reflected light from an object, not by analyzing the object itself.

Traditionally the length of a production run was a key factor in the selection of a dimensional gaging system.