Tool
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11.4.7 Hot swap
It is possible to replace an individual tool with another tool, just by disconnecting the tool from the tool
cable and attach the new tool. Hot swap is only available for S and ST type tools.
When hot swapping a tool, the new tool must be of the same type to ensure that all
parameter settings in the Power Focus will be interpreted correctly.
Even if all settings are accepted by a new tool of another tool type, some parameters can cause the new
tool to behave differently than the original tool.
An example is the speed setting parameters (P130-P138). If P139 is set to "Percent", these parameters are
stored in the PF database as percentage of max tool speed for the particular tool type, the value for the new
tool type might differ from the original tool type. On the other side using absolute speed values (P139 set
to "RPM") can generate strategy configuration errors for slower than swapped tools.
11.5 Tool lock functionality
The tool can be locked either by an internal state that does not allow the tool to be used, or intentionally by
configurable functions in the Power Focus or by external sources.
11.5.1 Locking of tools from an external source in time critical
applications
When production is arranged into line assembly, the tightening process is often planned in great detail. To
assure that tightenings are performed on the correct joints, the user might wish to disable the tool in
between operations on the same vehicle within a work station. In addition, there can be a timing
requirement, meaning that the tightenings have to be made within a certain time period.
If in these cases an external source (for example fieldbus) is used to disable and enable the tools, it is
important to thoroughly analyze the risks. Otherwise reduced productivity or bad ergonomics can be the
result.
There is a small delay between the moments when the triggering event occurs, for example a ready signal
from a positioning system, and when the tool is actually enabled or disabled. During a delay, the operator
can unintentionally disturb the counting in the process by pressing the trigger several times.
Therefore, the use of external sources for regularly locking and unlocking the tool in time critical
applications is not recommended. In order to enable and disable the tool quickly enough in these cases,
only Power Focus internal sources should be applied (only 1-2 ms reaction time).
In time critical applications, the following general strategy could be used: