Obtaining discrete data is inseparably connected with losing information on surface properties. In contact measurements, the ball tip functions as a mechanical-geometrical filter. In coordinate measurements the coordinates of the measurement points of a discrete distribution on the measured surface are obtained. Surface geometric deviations are represented by a set of local deviations, i.e. deviations of measurement points from the nominal surface (the CAD model), determined in a direction normal to this surface. The results of measurements depend both on the ball tip diameter and the grid size of measurement points. This article presents findings on the influence of the ball tip diameter and the grid size on coordinate measurement results along with the experimental results of measurement of a free-form milled surface, in order to determine its local geometric deviations. One section of the surface under research was measured using different measurement parameters. The whole surface was also scanned with different parameters, observing the rule of selecting the tip diameter d and the sampling interval T in the ratio of 2:1.

The paper describes the influence of the machining operation on a surface, which disturbs the projection of the tool profile in the form of its relative movements with respect to the object. The elements of the machine tool undergo constant wear during the machining process, it is therefore important to recognize the effects of their influence on the surface's irregularities. Amplitude-frequency analysis of lateral profiles has been used to evaluate and changes of turned lateral profiles. The results of simulation of radial and axial effects of the machine tool on surface and their spectral components were analyzed. Surfaces obtained in similar machining conditions on lathes operated in various time periods were analyzed spectrally. From the analysis of surface irregularity changes caused by disturbances in movements of the tool against the object, testifying the wear of main machine elements during its operation, the modulated, amplitude-frequency character of changes in surface irregularities of workpiece can be noticed.