Special tools are easy to create, locate, and
use with SMP/IS.
Easy to Create - Easy to Use
One way to use special tools in your fabrication operations is to create a
shape or internal form on a fabricated part by using a single hit. Examples
of these tools include louvers, dimples, D's, double D's, teardrops, trapezoids,
etc.
A special tool can be fully defined by its geometry, center point, angular
direction, and whether it is punched up or down. The special tool can then
be picked from the tool crib and inserted into formed parts, flat patterns,
or directly into your NC programming.
GPT
Shapes Creator
Use the graphical interface of the GPT Shapes Creator to
easily create special tools for your tool crib. All you have to do is click
on the shape of the tool (there are dozens of preset shapes available),
then insert the dimensions of the various features of that shape. The GPT
Shapes Creator will automatically calculate the geometry of that tool and
add it to your tool crib. It's now ready to be put to use!
Automatic Tool Placement
Once a special tool is placed in the SMP/IS Formed Part Modeler, its geometry
and definition are maintained throughout the flat pattern and NC programming
features. This allows the SMP/IS program to automatically position the special
tools in the turret according to your pre-defined requirements.
Special tools can also be utilized for edge cutting tools such as triangles,
diamonds, moon shapes, tri-radii, corner radii, quad radii, etc. SMP/IS allows
you to easily create and place these types of tools into a tool crib.
Smooth Auto-Indexing
Using special tools within the SMP/IS program is simple. For example, to place
a corner radius tool, just pick the radius with the cursor. You can auto-index
with any tool since the SMP/IS software is able to align special tools automatically
to their needed angles. Simply input the scallop height you desire -- the rest
is automatic. This auto-indexing feature allows you to use the special tools
for many other purposes. Cluster punches can also be defined and placed easily.
No Shape Limitation
SMP/IS can handle special tools with ease and without limitation -- no matter
what shape or size or unique purpose.
Click here to see just how easily special tools are used
in SMP/IS!
