Fundamentals

Application

The Fixture Monitoring function allows you to map setup situations and monitor them for collisions.

Requirements

  • Dynamic Collision Monitoring (DCM, software option 40)
  • Kinematics description
  • The machine manufacturer creates the kinematics description

  • Insertion point defined
  • Using the insertion point, the machine manufacturer defines the preset for positioning the fixtures. The insertion point is often located at the end of the kinematic chain (e.g., at the center of a rotary table). For information about the position of the insertion point, please refer to your machine manual.

  • Fixtures of suitable format:
    • STL file
      • 20,000 triangles maximum
      • Triangular mesh forms a closed shell
    • CFG file
    • M3D file

Description of function

Options for fixture files

For the integration of fixtures with the Set up fixtures function, only STL files can be used.

You can use the 3D mesh function (option 152) to create STL files from other file types and adapt STL files to the requirements of your control.

Generating STL files with 3D mesh (option 152)

Alternatively, CFG and M3D files can be set up manually.

Fixtures from STL files

STL files allow you to map both individual components and entire assemblies as an immobile fixture. The STL format is useful, in particular, for datum clamping systems and recurring setups.

If an STL file does not meet the requirements of the control, then the control issues an error message.

With CAD Model Optimizer (software option 152), you can adapt STL files that do not meet the requirements and then use them as fixtures.

Generating STL files with 3D mesh (option 152)

Fixtures from M3D files

M3D is a file type designed by HEIDENHAIN. The paid M3D Converter software from HEIDENHAIN allows you to create M3D files from STL or STEP files.

In order to use an M3D file as a fixture, you need to use the M3D Converter software to create and check the file.

Fixtures from CFG files

CFG files are configuration files. You can integrate the STL and M3D files available in a CFG file. This enables you to map complex setups.

The Set up fixtures function can be used to create a CFG file for the fixture, using the measured value.

In CFG files, you can correct the orientation of the fixture files to be effective on the control. KinematicsDesign can be used to create and edit CFG files on the control.

Editing CFG files with KinematicsDesign

Notes

 
Notice
Danger of collision!
The setup situation defined for fixture monitoring must match the actual machine status. Otherwise, there is a risk of collision.
  1. Measure the position of the fixture in your machine
  2. Use the measured values for positioning the fixture
  3. Test the NC programs in the Simulation
  • When using a CAM system, use a postprocessor to output the fixture situation.
  • Note the orientation of the coordinate system in the CAD system. Use the CAD system to adapt the orientation of the coordinate system to the desired orientation of the fixture in the machine.
  • You can choose any orientation of the fixture model in the CAD system, and therefore the orientation does not always match the orientation of the fixture in the machine.
  • Define the coordinate origin in the CAD system such that the fixture can be directly attached to the point of insertion of the kinematics.
  • Create a central directory for your fixtures (e.g., TNC:\system\Fixture).
  • HEIDENHAIN recommends storing variants of recurring setup situations suitable for standard workpiece sizes in the control (e.g., vise with different jaw opening widths).
  • By storing multiple fixtures, you can choose the appropriate fixture for your machining operation without needing to configure it.

  • Example files for setups used in everyday manufacturing are provided in the NC database of the Klartext Portal:
  • https://www.klartext-portal.com/en/tips/nc-solutions