In order to verify design scheme and theoretical model of a novel 5-Degrees of Freedom(DOF) parallel robot coordinate measuring machine(PRCMM)

shorten the period of the PRCMM development

decrease the development costs

and enhance the ratio of its successful design

the virtual prototype technology was applied to the course of the PRCMM design and development. The virtual prototype of this PRCMM is established by mechanical design software－SolidWorks. Motion simulation and measure simulation are realized by applying OLE technology

and dynamics simulation are realized by mechanical simulation software-ADAMS. Moreover

the resolvents of key problems generated in the process of development are discussed in detail. The results of computer simulation prove that the theoretical model is correct. Furthermore

the design structure is reasonable and credible. These provide not only the theoretic foundation and main parameters for the machine design and NC design

but also an effective method for the engineering design of PRCMM on computer.