in order to determine spatial coordinates of a multiplicity of measurement points along a contour of a measurement object , a probe head is provided with a probe element that is movably supported on the probe head . during movement of the probe head along the contour , position measuring values of the probe head and deflections of the probe element relative to the probe head are determined . spatial coordinates for the measurement points along the contour are determined from the position measuring values and deflections . the probe element is kept in contact with the contour during movement of the probe head by using an actuator to produce a defined contact force . the contact force is set as a function of a differential acceleration of the probe element relative to the probe head .