Connection Data

Connection enables you to define, using Mounting and Joint CoordSys positions, the geometric relationships between components in the Tool Item assembly. Connection is available for all components but Cutters. ToolKit provides default positions in accordance with the components geometry, which can be modified if necessary. We can view and edit the Connection Data for each component by clicking it in the Tool Item Manager.

Connect to Joint

This options allows you to select the Joint from the available drop-down list.

Mounting CoordSys

In the Mounting section, the Default Coordinate system that represents component connection point and its orientation is displayed. There can be only one Mounting Coordinate system.

You can also modify the Tool Item position relative to the Mounting CoordSys position to which it is mounted using Plane ZX, Plane XY or Plane YZ. Flip enables you to turn the Tool around its Axis.

Joints / Joint Coordsys

The Joints feature in ToolKit makes it easy to define complex tool assemblies. Mounting position of each component is connected to Joint CoordSys position of higher component. Mounting position of topmost component is connected to Station CoordSys position of Station to which it is mounted. It is also possible to shift and rotate each position. You can have multiple Joint Coordinate systems. There are three types of Joints: Static, Rotary and Linear.

You can add a new set of Joint, using the right-click menu:

Add Static Joint - This option enables you to add a new Static Joint.

Add Joint with Rotary Axis - This option enables you to add a new Joint with Rotary Axis.

Add Joint with Linear Axis - This option enables you to add a new Joint with Linear Axis.

Delete -This option deletes the Joint of the selected row.

Delete All - This option deletes all the Joints in the Joints table.

Pattern

This option enables you to create Joints with a pattern. When you choose Pattern button, the Pattern Data dialog box is displayed.

Enter the Number of Items in the Number of Items field.
Enter the value of the rotation angle in the Shift field.
Click Add to add the angles to the list.
Confirm with OK.
Click Recreate to delete all the last made entries.

Drive Unit type

The following Drive Unit types are available for selection:

DIRECT
NOT DRIVEN
SELF DRIVE
GEAR

Axis Data

The Axis Data button is available only for Rotary Joints. When you choose Axis Data button, the Axis Data dialog box is displayed.

You can change the Axis Position by entering the value in the Position field or by scrolling your mouse wheel to change the value gradually. This value is reflected in the Axis Data table.