Method and device for measuring workpieces in three dimensions

Method and device for three-dimensional measurement of workpieces by means of a probe which can move in three dimensions and largely independent of direction. The method consists in causing the probe to move via a multiple-joint system. The multiple-joint system can be constructed from two or more arms joined to one another sequentially in an articulated fashion, or by means of a parallelogram linkage. The probe head is then highly mobile and can be brought, while avoiding obstacles, to a measuring point of a workpiece to be measured, it being possible, moreover, for the speed during touching to be higher than in the case of the rigid measuring machines having guide carriages.