Summary
GibbsCAM 2024 uses receptor and attachment relationships to filter and stack Intermediate Tooling fixtures at part stations and utility nodes. Fixtures can reposition a part or another fixture, include parked or programmable axes, and remain installed for simulation even when they do not hold a programmed part.
Table of Contents
- What Changed in GibbsCAM 2024
- Before You Begin
- Procedure
- Related Video
- Best Practices
- Troubleshooting
- Related Articles
What Changed in GibbsCAM 2024
Important: A fixture transformation can move every child fixture and part below it in the attachment chain. Verify the complete stack in the workspace and Machine Simulation before releasing the program.
Before You Begin
• Use GibbsCAM 2024 with the approved MDD, machine assembly, and Intermediate Tooling files.
• Identify the part station or utility node that will receive each fixture.
• Confirm the physical stack order and the approved positions of adjustable fixture axes.
• Save a working copy and record the baseline fixture and part positions.
Procedure
Step 1 - Confirm the Machine and Fixture Nodes
1. Open the part and verify the active MDD and machine assembly.
2. Identify the part station that holds the programmed part and any utility nodes that carry supporting fixtures.
3. Stop if a required node or fixture is missing from the approved machine configuration.
Step 2 - Build the Fixture Stack
1. Open the Intermediate Tooling controls and select the receptor that will receive the first fixture.
2. Choose a fixture with a compatible attachment.
3. Add child fixtures in physical stack order and verify every receptor and attachment relationship.
4. Review the complete chain from the machine node to the part-holding fixture.
Figure 1 Intermediate Tooling fixtures use receptor and attachment relationships
Source: What's New in GibbsCAM 2024, p. 21
Step 3 - Position Adjustable Fixtures
1. Identify the parked or programmable axes defined for the selected fixture.
2. Enter the approved position for the physical setup and remain within the defined limits.
3. Confirm that the fixture, its child fixtures, and the part move together as intended.
4. For programmable motion, verify support in the MDD, post, and machine-control workflow.
Step 4 - Add and Validate Simulation Fixtures
1. Add fixtures that remain installed on the machine even when they do not hold a programmed part.
2. Attach each fixture to the correct part station or utility node.
3. Run Machine Simulation and confirm that every installed fixture appears in the correct position and participates in the intended collision checks.
4. Review tool, holder, spindle, part, stock, fixture, and machine-component clearance through the required motion.
Expected Result
• Each fixture appears under a compatible receptor and in the correct physical stack order.
• Parked or programmable axes position the fixture chain and part as defined by the setup.
• Fixtures installed only for simulation remain visible and participate in the required collision checks.
Related Video
Best Practices
• Build the fixture stack from the machine node outward and verify one attachment at a time.
• Use clear names for fixtures, receptors, attachments, and axes.
• Record parked-axis values in the setup documentation.
• Include the part, MDD, machine assembly, Intermediate Tooling, and post in a Pack and Go package when requesting support.
Troubleshooting
• Problem: The intended fixture is missing from the available list.
Cause
• The selected receptor is not compatible with the fixture attachment.
• The active MDD or Intermediate Tooling data does not include the fixture.
Resolution
Confirm the active machine and selected node, then verify the receptor and attachment definitions. Use a compatible fixture or request a corrected approved definition.
• Problem: A fixture attaches in the wrong position or orientation.
Cause
• The fixture is attached to the wrong receptor or node.
• The attachment origin, orientation, or stack order does not match the physical setup.
Resolution
Rebuild the chain from the machine node outward and verify each relationship. Correct the fixture definition instead of compensating with an undocumented part offset.
• Problem: Changing a fixture axis does not move the expected components.
Cause
• The axis is missing or disabled in the active fixture definition.
• The part or child fixture is not attached below the moving component.
Resolution
Verify the fixture, axis, limits, and attachment hierarchy. Use an approved in-range value and confirm MDD and post support for programmable motion.
• Problem: The workspace and Machine Simulation show different fixture positions.
Cause
• The views use different machine or Intermediate Tooling files.
• Simulation was not refreshed after the fixture setup changed.
Resolution
Reload the approved machine configuration, regenerate affected operations, and restart simulation from a clean state. Package the complete configuration for support if the mismatch remains.
Related Articles
• Recommended Simulation Settings
• Create a Custom Stock Body for More Accurate Simulation
• How to Create a Pack and Go File
Explore More from CAMCO
Visit the CAMCO website to learn more about:
• Downloads and Helpful Resources
Keywords
GibbsCAM 2024, Intermediate Tooling, fixture, receptor, attachment, fixture stack, part station, utility node, parked axis, programmable fixture, MDD, Machine Simulation
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