This function is used to calculate the distance between two parts, and display the result in contour plot. The control window is shown in Figure 5.14.1. The user needs to set the Source part and Destination part. The calculation result is displayed on the Source part.

Figure 5.14.1  User Control Window

1.       TOOL SET

l  SOURCE

Select source part for distance calculation.

l  DESTINATION

Select destination part for distance calculation.

2.       OPTION

l  USE ELEM NORMAL

If this option is toggled off, the calculated distance is an absolute value. If this option is toggled on, the element normal direction of two parts should be considered for the calculated distance, and the calculated distance value can be positive or negative depending on the normal direction of the source part. Figure 5.14.2 (a) shows the result when the option is toggled off while Figure 5.14.2 (b) shows the result when the option is toggled on.

l  BEST FIT

This option is used to compare two parts shape. The user can select respective fit points in two parts. The selection of fit points is shown in Figure 5.14.3(a), the result of fit calculation is shown in Figure 5.14.3 (b).

l  MOVE SOURCE PART

This option is used to move source part to destination part. After the BEST FIT option is toggled on, the option is valid. In order for the advantageous comparison, source part is moved to destination part after the calculation of best fit.   

l  TOLERANCE

This function is used to control the calculation accuracy. The value should be greater than zero

l  CRITERIA

This function is used to control fit degree.

3.       RESULT

l  START

Calculate the distance between two parts and display the result in contour plot.

l  STOP

Stop calculation.

l  CLEAR

Clear the calculated result.

4.       Exit

Exit this function.

    

(a)  the Element Normal Option toggled off          (b)  the Element Normal Option toggled on

igure 5.14.2  Calculation Result

  

(a)  the Selection of fit points          (b)   the Result of fit

Figure 5.14.3  Fit calculation