Programming with Part and Fixture CAD Models

Programming with Part and Fixture CAD Models

The main advantage of utilizing the fixture CAD file in conjunction with the part model is that CMM-Manager will generate a measurement path to avoid both details, eliminating any manual adjustments. For example, programming the part shown in the picture below with a fixture will ensure the collision-free path to be produced around the clamp automatically.



Below are instructions on how to incorporate a fixture into your program under typical scenarios.

Models Sharing the Common CAD Reference Frame:

Part and fixture CAD models should be in the correct location and orientation with respect to each other immediately upon the import.



Now perform the alignment to locate the part. Both models will be sync'd once completed.

Models with Independant CAD Reference Frames:

For this particular case, the easiest method to sync both CAD's is via the Furniture Editor.

First, please import the fixture model, perform an alignment on it, then add it as a furniture (See KB article - Adding CAD Furniture).



Next, create an inspection program with the part CAD model only. Teach the initial alignment so that the CAD will be sync'd.



Now navigate to the Furniture Editor (under the Display tab in the Ribbon Bar), highlight the fixture CAD layer under the Layers tab, then click the Add to CAD button.



This operation merges the fixture components with the part model, separated by layers. The reference frame of the part CAD will be used for the combined model.



No Fixture CAD Model Available:

A simplified CAD model of the fixture can be constructed within CMM-Manager if the file is not available. Typically, this is accomplished by joystick measure or construct features that mimic fixture details.

The base plate and pins for the example fixture can be measured/defined as a plane and cylinders.



Combination of cylinders, planes, and a cone should be sufficient for simulating the clamp. 



Navigate to the Feature Database, highlight features that are part of the fixture details, right-click then select the Add to CAD option.



Selected features will be added to the CAD model at this time. Measured and defined features can be deleted afterward



Combine the constructed fixture with the part model using the technique described in the previous chapter.


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