The development of user-friendly software measurement standards for surface topography software assessment

The development of user-friendly reference data sets (softgauges) and reference software algorithms for validating the software aspects of surface profile measuring instruments is described. A framework for the software measurement standards, and the form of the reference data (Type F1 softgauges) and reference software (Type F2) that were developed is discussed. This work was carried out as part of the UK National Measurement System Length Programme (2002–2005) and involved collaboration between University of Huddersfield, Taylor Hobson Ltd. and the National Physical Laboratory.