Preface

SIMOTION
SIMOTION SCOUT
CamTool
Configuration Manual

11/2010

Description

Installing the Software

Configuring

Functions

Menus

Legal information
Warning notice system
This manual contains notices you have to observe in order to ensure your personal safety, as well as to prevent
damage to property. The notices referring to your personal safety are highlighted in the manual by a safety alert
symbol, notices referring only to property damage have no safety alert symbol. These notices shown below are
graded according to the degree of danger.
DANGER
indicates that death or severe personal injury will result if proper precautions are not taken.
WARNING
indicates that death or severe personal injury may result if proper precautions are not taken.
CAUTION
with a safety alert symbol, indicates that minor personal injury can result if proper precautions are not taken.
CAUTION
without a safety alert symbol, indicates that property damage can result if proper precautions are not taken.
NOTICE
indicates that an unintended result or situation can occur if the corresponding information is not taken into
account.
If more than one degree of danger is present, the warning notice representing the highest degree of danger will
be used. A notice warning of injury to persons with a safety alert symbol may also include a warning relating to
property damage.

Qualified Personnel
The product/system described in this documentation may be operated only by personnel qualified for the specific
task in accordance with the relevant documentation for the specific task, in particular its warning notices and
safety instructions. Qualified personnel are those who, based on their training and experience, are capable of
identifying risks and avoiding potential hazards when working with these products/systems.

Proper use of Siemens products

Note the following:
WARNING
Siemens products may only be used for the applications described in the catalog and in the relevant technical
documentation. If products and components from other manufacturers are used, these must be recommended
or approved by Siemens. Proper transport, storage, installation, assembly, commissioning, operation and
maintenance are required to ensure that the products operate safely and without any problems. The permissible
ambient conditions must be adhered to. The information in the relevant documentation must be observed.

Trademarks
All names identified by are registered trademarks of the Siemens AG. The remaining trademarks in this
publication may be trademarks whose use by third parties for their own purposes could violate the rights of the
owner.

Disclaimer of Liability
We have reviewed the contents of this publication to ensure consistency with the hardware and software
described. Since variance cannot be precluded entirely, we cannot guarantee full consistency. However, the
information in this publication is reviewed regularly and any necessary corrections are included in subsequent
editions.

Siemens AG
Industry Sector
Postfach 48 48
90026 NRNBERG
GERMANY

Copyright Siemens AG 2010.

Technical data subject to change

Preface
Contents of manual
This manual describes the SIMOTION CamTool optional package.
This document is part of the SIMOTION Engineering System documentation package.

Scope
This manual applies to SIMOTION SCOUT in conjunction with the SIMOTION CamTool
optional package.

Standards
The SIMOTION system was developed in accordance with ISO 9001 quality guidelines.

Information:
The following is a description of the purpose and use of the manual:
"Description" section
This section provides a brief overview of the basic functions of SIMOTION CamTool and
its integration into SIMOTION SCOUT.
"Installation" section
This section explains how SIMOTION CamTool is installed and the requirements which
need to be met before it can be used.
"Planning/Configuring" section
This chapter describes the basic functions of SIMOTION CamTool, and contains
information on how to use the CamTool when editing cams.
"Functions" section
This section explains how to create a cam.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Preface

SIMOTION Documentation
An overview of the SIMOTION documentation can be found in a separate list of references.
This documentation is included as electronic documentation in the scope of delivery of
SIMOTION SCOUT. It comprises 10 documentation packages.
The following documentation packages are available for SIMOTION V4.2:
SIMOTION Engineering System
SIMOTION System and Function Descriptions
SIMOTION Service and Diagnostics
SIMOTION IT
SIMOTION Programming
SIMOTION Programming - References
SIMOTION C
SIMOTION P
SIMOTION D
SIMOTION Supplementary Documentation

Hotline and Internet addresses

Siemens Internet address
The latest information about SIMOTION products, product support, and FAQs can be found
on the Internet at:
General information:
http://www.siemens.de/simotion (German)
http://www.siemens.com/simotion (international)
Downloading documentation
Further links for downloading files from Service & Support.
http://support.automation.siemens.com/WW/view/en/10805436
Individually compiling documentation on the basis of Siemens contents with the My
Documentation Manager (MDM), refer to http://www.siemens.com/mdm
My Documentation Manager provides you with a range of features for creating your own
documentation.
FAQs
You can find information on FAQs (frequently asked questions) by clicking
http://support.automation.siemens.com/WW/view/en/10805436/133000

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Preface

Additional support
We also offer introductory courses to help you familiarize yourself with SIMOTION.
For more information, please contact your regional Training Center or the main Training
Center in 90027 Nuremberg, Germany.
Information about training courses on offer can be found at:
www.sitrain.com

Technical support
If you have any technical questions, please contact our hotline:
Europe / Africa
Phone

+49 (0)911 895 7 222

Fax

+49 (0)911 895 7 223

Internet

http://www.siemens.com/automation/support-request

Phone

+1 423 262 2522

Fax

+1 423 262 2200

E-mail

mailto:[email protected]

Americas

Asia / Pacific
Phone

+86 1064 757575

Fax

+86 1064 747474

E-mail

mailto:[email protected]

Note
Country-specific telephone numbers for technical support are provided under the following
Internet address:
http://www.automation.siemens.com/partner

Questions about this documentation

If you have any questions (suggestions, corrections) regarding this documentation, please
fax or e-mail us at:
Fax

+49 9131- 98 2176

E-mail

mailto:[email protected]

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Preface

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Table of contents
Preface ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
1

Description............................................................................................................................................... 11

Installing the Software ............................................................................................................................. 13

2.1

Installing SIMOTION CamTool ....................................................................................................13

2.2

Deinstalling SIMOTION CamTool ................................................................................................15

Configuring .............................................................................................................................................. 17
3.1

Content.........................................................................................................................................17

3.2
3.2.1
3.2.2

Customizing the Working Area Display .......................................................................................18

Changing the representation using the toolbar............................................................................18
Maximizing working area .............................................................................................................20

3.3
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.3.4
3.3.5

Editing a Cam with CamTool .......................................................................................................21

Content.........................................................................................................................................21
Adding a cam to a SCOUT project using CamTool .....................................................................22
Edit cam created with CamEdit with CamTool.............................................................................24
Import cam from text file ..............................................................................................................27
Upload cam from SIMOTION device ...........................................................................................30

3.4

Save cam .....................................................................................................................................34

3.5
3.5.1
3.5.2
3.5.3
3.5.4
3.5.5
3.5.6

Customize the display of the cam................................................................................................35

Display the cam ...........................................................................................................................35
Show/hide diagram ......................................................................................................................36
Change axis representation parameters......................................................................................37
Change diagram representation parameters ...............................................................................40
Change lines and fonts representation parameters.....................................................................43
Displaying auxiliary lines in the diagram......................................................................................46

3.6

Download cam to SIMOTION device...........................................................................................49

Functions ................................................................................................................................................. 51
4.1

Content.........................................................................................................................................51

4.2

Structure of a cam........................................................................................................................52

4.3
4.3.1
4.3.2
4.3.3
4.3.4
4.3.5
4.3.6
4.3.7
4.3.8

Fixed point....................................................................................................................................53
Fixed Point Definition ...................................................................................................................53
Insert fixed point...........................................................................................................................54
Change fixed point position..........................................................................................................55
Changing the velocity at the position of a fixed point ..................................................................56
Changing the acceleration at a fixed point position: ....................................................................57
Delete fixed point .........................................................................................................................58
Position, fixed point properties.....................................................................................................58
Dynamic response, fixed point properties....................................................................................59

4.4
4.4.1
4.4.2
4.4.3

Straight line ..................................................................................................................................60

Definition straight line...................................................................................................................60
Insert straight line.........................................................................................................................61
Change straight line position........................................................................................................63

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Table of contents

4.4.4
4.4.5
4.4.6
4.4.7

Changing the velocity along a straight line ................................................................................. 64

Delete straight line ...................................................................................................................... 65
Position, straight line properties.................................................................................................. 66
Dynamic response, straight line properties................................................................................. 67

4.5
4.5.1
4.5.2
4.5.3
4.5.4
4.5.5

Sine curve ................................................................................................................................... 68

Insert sine curve.......................................................................................................................... 68
Change sine curve position......................................................................................................... 69
Change sine curve definition range ............................................................................................ 71
Delete sine curve ........................................................................................................................ 72
Position, Fx sine properties......................................................................................................... 72

4.6
4.6.1
4.6.2
4.6.3
4.6.4
4.6.5

Arc Sine Curve ............................................................................................................................ 73

Insert arc sine curve.................................................................................................................... 73
Change arc sine curve position................................................................................................... 75
Change arc sine curve definition range ...................................................................................... 77
Delete arc sine curve .................................................................................................................. 78
Position, Fx arc sine properties................................................................................................... 78

4.7
4.7.1
4.7.2
4.7.3
4.7.4
4.7.5

Interpolation point........................................................................................................................ 79
Interpolation Point Definition ....................................................................................................... 79
Insert interpolation point.............................................................................................................. 79
Changing the interpolation point position.................................................................................... 81
Delete interpolation point ............................................................................................................ 82
Position, interpolation point properties........................................................................................ 82

4.8
4.8.1
4.8.2
4.8.3
4.8.4
4.8.5
4.8.6

Optimizing a Cam........................................................................................................................ 83
Optimizing a Cam........................................................................................................................ 83
Optimize transition ...................................................................................................................... 85
Interpolation Curve properties..................................................................................................... 87
Type - Interpolation curve properties .......................................................................................... 87
Parameters - Interpolation curve properties................................................................................ 88
Limit Values - Interpolation curve properties............................................................................... 89

4.9
4.9.1
4.9.1.1
4.9.1.2
4.9.1.3

Specify parameters for target device .......................................................................................... 91

Target Device Parameters .......................................................................................................... 93
Coordinates - Target device parameters .................................................................................... 93
Interpolation - position................................................................................................................. 94
Scaling - position......................................................................................................................... 95

4.10
4.10.1
4.10.1.1
4.10.1.2

Specify simulation settings.......................................................................................................... 97

Simulation Settings ..................................................................................................................... 97
Master - Simulation settings........................................................................................................ 98
Slave - Simulation settings........................................................................................................ 100

4.11

Edit cam created with CamTool with CamEdit.......................................................................... 101

4.12

Export cam as text file............................................................................................................... 102

4.13

Print cam ................................................................................................................................... 103

Menus.................................................................................................................................................... 105
5.1

Arcsin, Sin, Straight line, Interpolation point context menu - CamTool .................................... 105

5.2

Diagram area context menu - CamTool.................................................................................... 106

5.3

Fixed point context menu - CamTool ........................................................................................ 107

5.4

Interpolation curve context menu - CamTool ............................................................................ 108

5.5

X-axis context menu - CamTool................................................................................................ 108

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Table of contents

5.6

Y-axis context menu - CamTool.................................................................................................108

5.7

Cam menu - CamTool................................................................................................................109

Index...................................................................................................................................................... 111

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Table of contents

10

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Description

Introduction
The graphical user interface in SIMOTION CamTool allows you to create, edit and optimize
cams.
SIMOTION CamTool is fully integrated in SIMOTION SCOUT. This allows you to also use in
SIMOTION CamTool information configured in SIMOTION SCOUT (e.g. axis settings).

Basic functions
SIMOTION CamTool provides the following basic functions:
Insert and edit cams.
Cams can be added to a SCOUT project using SIMOTION CamTool. In addition, you can
edit with CamTool a cam created with CamEdit: Cams can also be imported from a text
file or uploaded from a SIMOTION device.
Modifying the representation of the cam in CamTool
In SIMOTION CamTool, you can show and hide diagrams, change the representation
parameters of the axes and diagrams, and adapt the lines and fonts. You can also
represent auxiliary lines in the diagram.
Converting cams from SIMOTION CamTool to SIMOTION CamEdit.
To edit with SIMOTION CamEdit a cam edited in SIMOTION CamTool, the cam must be
converted.
Exporting cams into a text file.
Downloading cams to a SIMOTION device
Printing a cam.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

11

Description

12

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Installing the Software

2.1

Installing SIMOTION CamTool

Introduction
SIMOTION CamTool is an optional package for SIMOTION SCOUT.
SIMOTION SCOUT must already be installed on the system on which you want to install
SIMOTION CamTool. For further information, refer to the system requirements.
Note
You require administrator rights for the installation.
Following installation, every user (including those without administrator rights) can work with
SIMOTION CamTool.

System requirements
The table below contains a detailed overview of the system requirements for
SIMOTION CamTool V3.0 SP1.
Table 2- 1

SIMOTION CamTool V3.0 SP1 system requirements

Minimum requirement

Programming device or
PC

Processor: Intel Pentium IV; 2.5 GHz

1 GB RAM; recommended: 2 GB
Screen resolution: 1024 x 768 pixels, 16-bit color depth

Operating system

Microsoft Windows XP Professional Service Pack 3

Microsoft Windows 7 Professional
Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate

Software required

Microsoft Internet Explorer Version 6.0 (Windows XP)

Microsoft Internet Explorer Version 7.0 (Windows 7)
SIMATIC STEP 7 Version 5.5
SIMOTION SCOUT Version 4.2

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

13

Installing the Software

2.1 Installing SIMOTION CamTool

Installing SIMOTION CamTool

To install SIMOTION CamTool:
1. Insert the CD with the installation software into the CD-ROM drive.
2. Start Windows Explorer and select the CD-ROM drive.
3. Open the CamTool\Disk1 directory.
4. Double-click setup.exe. The installation program starts.
5. Run through the installation program. SIMOTION CamTool is now installed.

14

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Installing the Software

2.2 Deinstalling SIMOTION CamTool

2.2

Deinstalling SIMOTION CamTool

Uninstalling SIMOTION CamTool

To uninstall SIMOTION CamTool:
1. Click Start > Settings > Control Panel in the Windows taskbar. The Control Panel window
appears.
2. Double-click Software. The Software Properties window appears.
3. Select SIMOTION SCOUT CamTool on the Install/Uninstall tab.
4. Click Add/Remove. The uninstall program starts.
5. Run through the uninstall program. SIMOTION CamTool is now uninstalled.
Note
You require administrator rights for the uninstall process.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

15

Installing the Software

2.2 Deinstalling SIMOTION CamTool

16

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.1

Content

Overview
This chapter describes how you work with SIMOTION CamTool. You learn how
to customize the display of the working area
to edit a cam with CamTool
to save a cam
to customize the display of the cam
to download a cam to a SIMOTION device
Note
The following operating instructions primarily describe the operation of
SIMOTION CamTool using the functions in the menu bar.
You can also execute the functions from the context menus. In this case, right-click the
element that you want to edit.
You can also execute the most import functions using the icons in the
SIMOTION CamTool toolbar. Pay attention to the tooltip which is displayed when you
place the mouse pointer on an icon in the toolbar.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

17

Configuring
3.2 Customizing the Working Area Display

3.2

Customizing the Working Area Display

3.2.1

Changing the representation using the toolbar

Introduction
You can use the icons in the function bar to show or hide the scaled cam profile, the V
diagram (velocity diagram), the A diagram (acceleration diagram), and the J diagram (jerk
diagram). Use the zoom tool to enlarge/reduce the display or move it around with the hand
tool.

Using the function bar to change the display

To change how diagrams are displayed using the function bar:
1. A tool tip appears when you position the cursor over an icon in the function bar.
2. Click the icon for the function you wish to use.

Function bar icons

The following functions can be used to change the screen display:
Table 3- 1

Icons in the SIMOTION CamTool function bar

Icon

Meaning/Operation
Use this icon (selection tool) to select the cam segments for editing.
Use this icon to activate/deactivate the display for the scaled cam profile. If you have
not made any scaling specifications, the icon will be grayed out.
Note:
When the scaled cam profile is displayed, you will not be able to edit the original
curves in the diagram displays.
Use this icon to show or hide the V diagram (velocity diagram).
Use this icon to show or hide the A diagram (acceleration diagram).
Use this icon to show or hide the J diagram (jerk diagram).

18

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.2 Customizing the Working Area Display
Icon

Meaning/Operation
Use this icon to activate/deactivate the zoom tool. You can also use the ESC key to
deactivate the zoom tool.
When activated, the zoom tool enables you to perform a variety of functions,
depending on whether you position the cursor over the diagram area or a coordinate
axis, and whether you press the SHIFT key while doing this:
Zoom tool over diagram area (zoom effective in all directions simultaneously)
Left-click to double the size of the entire display.
Right-click to halve the size of the entire display.
Zoom tool over coordinate axis (zoom effective in direction of coordinate axis)
Left-click to double the size of the display in the direction of the coordinate axis over
which the cursor is positioned.
Right-click to halve the size of the display in the direction of the coordinate axis over
which the cursor is positioned.
Zoom tool with SHIFT key pressed
The cursor assumes the functions of the hand tool for as long as the SHIFT key is
pressed and held down. When the hand tool is activated, you can move the diagram
area using drag-and-drop. Any diagrams which are currently visible can be moved in
this way.
Use this icon to activate/deactivate the zoom function. You can also use the ESC key
to deactivate the zoom function.
Zoom function on the diagram area
When the zoom function is activated, you can press the mouse button down and
outline a section of the diagram area you wish to enlarge.
Zoom function on the coordinate axis
When the zoom function is activated, you can press the mouse button down and
outline the section of a coordinate axis you wish to enlarge. The enlargement takes
effect in the direction you worked in when outlining the section on the coordinate axis.
Use this icon to reset the previous zoom setting.
Use this icon to activate/deactivate the hand tool. You can also use the ESC key to
deactivate the hand tool.
When the hand tool is activated, you can move the diagram area using drag-anddrop. Any diagrams which are currently visible can be moved in this way.
Use this icon to restore the entire display to the normal view.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

19

Configuring
3.2 Customizing the Working Area Display

3.2.2

Maximizing working area

Maximizing working area

To set the largest possible working area for SIMOTION CamTool:
1. Click Maximized working area in the View menu. The detail view and project navigator
will close.
2. Maximize the window containing the cam diagrams.
or
1. Select View > Project navigator to close the project navigator.
2. Select View > Detail view to close the detail view.
3. Maximize the window containing the cam diagrams.

Figure 3-1

Cam diagrams maximized in the SIMOTION SCOUT working area

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

20

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool

3.3

Editing a Cam with CamTool

3.3.1

Content

Overview
With SIMOTION CamTool, you can edit a cam that is inserted in a SCOUT project.
You can use the following methods to insert and edit a cam. You can
add a cam to a SCOUT project using SIMOTION CamTool.
edit with CamTool a cam created with CamEdit.
import and edit a cam from a text file.
upload and edit a cam from a SIMOTION device.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

21

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool

3.3.2

Adding a cam to a SCOUT project using CamTool

Requirement
SIMOTION CamTool must be installed as an optional package for SIMOTION SCOUT.
The project in which you wish to insert the cam must be open in SIMOTION SCOUT. There
must be at least one SIMOTION device configured in this project.

Inserting a cam in a SCOUT project

To insert a cam in a SCOUT project:
1. In the project navigator, find the SIMOTION device under which you wish to insert a new
cam.
2. Open the Cams folder and double-click Insert cam with CamTool.

Figure 3-2

22

Inserting a new cam with CamTool

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool
3. The Insert cam window appears. Enter a unique designation for the cam under Name (all
the cams within the project are listed under Existing cams).

Figure 3-3

Window for inserting cams

4. Click OK. A window appears in the SIMOTION SCOUT working area. Depending on the
settings in the Cam > Diagrams menu item, the cam diagrams will appear in this window.
Note
The cam diagrams show:
The master axis in the horizontal direction (X-axis) and
The slave axis in the vertical direction (Y-axis)

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

23

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool

3.3.3

Edit cam created with CamEdit with CamTool

Editing a cam with CamTool

Note
You can use SIMOTION CamTool to edit any cam created with SIMOTION CamEdit,
provided it contains no more than 800 cam elements (interpolation points and/or
polynomials).
To edit a cam created with CamEdit using CamTool:
1. Close the cam in SIMOTION CamEdit.
2. In the project navigator, find the cam you wish to edit with SIMOTION CamTool.
3. Right-click the cam and select Convert to CamTool in the context menu that appears. The
cam will be opened the next time SIMOTION CamTool is opened.

24

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool
4. Double-click the cam. The cam is opened and displayed with SIMOTION CamTool.
Segment boundaries between individual cam segments are marked in the S diagram
(path diagram).

6GLDJUDPGLVWDQFHGLDJUDP

6HJPHQWERXQGDU\
6HJPHQWERXQGDU\

9GLDJUDPYHORFLW\GLDJUDP

$GLDJUDPDFFHOHUDWLRQGLDJUDP

Figure 3-4

Cam created with CamEdit and opened with CamTool

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

25

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool
5. Select the cam segment you wish to edit. Please take account of the segment boundaries
displayed.
6. Press the DEL key to delete the cam segment. SIMOTION CamTool replaces the cam
segment with an interpolation curve (transition). Fixed points are inserted in the cam
profile where necessary to retain the vertices from the original curve.

6GLDJUDPGLVWDQFHGLDJUDP

6HJPHQWERXQGDU\
)L[HGSRLQW

6HJPHQWERXQGDU\
,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYHWUDQVLWLRQ

9GLDJUDPYHORFLW\GLDJUDP

$GLDJUDPDFFHOHUDWLRQGLDJUDP

Figure 3-5

Cam segment replaced with fixed point and transition (interpolation polynomial) by SIMOTION CamTool

7. You can edit (e.g. change the position of) the cam segment (e.g. fixed point) inserted by
SIMOTION CamTool.
8. You can optimize the interpolation curve (transition) inserted by SIMOTION CamTool
(e.g. its velocity).

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

26

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool

3.3.4

Import cam from text file

Introduction
You can reimport into CamTool a cam exported from SIMOTION CamTool as a text file (e.g.
in order to reimport a cam edited in an external program).
Note
The way the cam is represented in the text file must be compatible with the
Microsoft Excel CSV format.
Note
When importing a cam from a text file, please ensure it contains no more than 800 cam
elements (interpolation points and/or polynomials).

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

27

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool

Importing a cam
To import a cam from a text file:
1. Open the cam in which you wish to insert the cam from the text file with
SIMOTION CamTool.
or
Insert a new cam in which you wish to import the cam from the text file.

6GLDJUDPGLVWDQFHGLDJUDP

6HJPHQWERXQGDU\
6HJPHQWERXQGDU\

9GLDJUDPYHORFLW\GLDJUDP

$GLDJUDPDFFHOHUDWLRQGLDJUDP

Figure 3-6

28

Cam imported from a text file

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool
2. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.

6GLDJUDPGLVWDQFHGLDJUDP

6HJPHQWERXQGDU\
)L[HGSRLQW

6HJPHQWERXQGDU\
,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYHWUDQVLWLRQ

9GLDJUDPYHORFLW\GLDJUDP

$GLDJUDPDFFHOHUDWLRQGLDJUDP

Figure 3-7

Cam segment replaced with fixed point and transition (interpolation polynomial) by SIMOTION CamTool

3. Click the Cam > Import menu item. The file selection window appears.
Use Search in to navigate to the text file containing the cam and select this text file. The
designation for the text file is entered under Name.
4. Click OK in the file selection window. The cam is imported.
Note
If you are importing a cam from a text file and have already changed the cam displayed, a
window will appear. This window enables you to accept the changed cam into the project.
The cam is then imported from the text file.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

29

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool

Editing an imported cam

To edit a cam imported into SIMOTION CamTool:
1. The cam imported from a text file is displayed in SIMOTION CamTool. Segment
boundaries between individual cam segments are marked in the S diagram (path
diagram).
Select the cam segment you wish to edit. Please take account of the segment boundaries
displayed.
2. Press the DEL key to delete the cam segment. SIMOTION CamTool replaces the cam
segment with an interpolation curve (transition). Fixed points are inserted in the cam
profile where necessary to retain the vertices from the original curve.
3. You can edit (e.g. change the position of) the cam segment (e.g. fixed point) inserted by
SIMOTION CamTool.
4. You can optimize the interpolation curve (transition) inserted by SIMOTION CamTool
(e.g. its velocity).

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

3.3.5

Upload cam from SIMOTION device

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.
Note
If you are creating a new cam which has never been downloaded to the SIMOTION device,
you first need to download the entire configuration including the new cam to the SIMOTION
device.
Only then will you be able to upload the cam currently opened with SIMOTION CamTool
from the SIMOTION device. Uploading is only possible ONLINE.

30

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool

Uploading a cam
To upload a cam from a SIMOTION device: :
1. Click the Project > Connect to target system menu item. The system switches to ONLINE
mode.

6GLDJUDPGLVWDQFHGLDJUDP

6HJPHQWERXQGDU\
6HJPHQWERXQGDU\

9GLDJUDPYHORFLW\GLDJUDP

$GLDJUDPDFFHOHUDWLRQGLDJUDP

Figure 3-8

Cam uploaded from a SIMOTION device

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

31

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool
2. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.

6GLDJUDPGLVWDQFHGLDJUDP

6HJPHQWERXQGDU\
)L[HGSRLQW

6HJPHQWERXQGDU\
,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYHWUDQVLWLRQ

9GLDJUDPYHORFLW\GLDJUDP

$GLDJUDPDFFHOHUDWLRQGLDJUDP

Figure 3-9

Cam segment replaced with fixed point and transition (interpolation polynomial) by SIMOTION CamTool

3. Click the Cam > Upload cam menu item. The cam is uploaded from the SIMOTION
device.
4. You can switch back to OFFLINE mode once uploading is complete by clicking the
Project > Disconnect from target system menu item.
Note
If you are uploading a cam from the SIMOTION device and have already changed the
cam displayed, a window will appear. This window enables you to accept the changed
cam into the project. The cam is then uploaded from the SIMOTION device.

32

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.3 Editing a Cam with CamTool

Editing an uploaded cam

To edit a cam that has been uploaded from a SIMOTION device:
1. The uploaded cam is displayed in SIMOTION CamTool. Segment boundaries between
individual cam segments are marked in the S diagram (path diagram).
Select the cam segment you wish to edit. Please take account of the segment boundaries
displayed.
2. Press the DEL key to delete the cam segment. SIMOTION CamTool replaces the cam
segment with an interpolation curve (transition). Fixed points are inserted in the cam
profile where necessary to retain the vertices from the original curve.
3. You can edit (e.g. change the position of) the cam segment (e.g. fixed point) inserted by
SIMOTION CamTool.
4. You can optimize the interpolation curve (transition) inserted by SIMOTION CamTool
(e.g. its velocity).

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

33

Configuring
3.4 Save cam

3.4

Save cam

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.
Note
If you are exiting SIMOTION CamTool and have already changed the cam, a window will
appear. This window enables you to accept the changed cam into the project.
SIMOTION CamTool then closes.
If you are uploading a cam from a SIMOTION device and have already changed the cam
displayed, a window will appear. This window enables you to accept the changed cam into
the project. The cam is then uploaded from the SIMOTION device.
If you are importing a cam from a text file and have already changed the cam displayed, a
window will appear. This window enables you to accept the changed cam into the project.
The cam is then imported from the text file.

Saving a cam
To save a cam:
1. Click the Project > Save menu item. The cam is accepted into the SCOUT project.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

34

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam

3.5

Customize the display of the cam

3.5.1

Display the cam

Diagram display
The S diagram (distance diagram) of the cam is always displayed in the SIMOTION SCOUT
working area. You can show or hide the V diagram (velocity diagram), the A diagram
(acceleration diagram) and the J diagram (jerk diagram) via icons in the toolbar.

Representation parameters
You can customize the display parameters (e.g. representation range) for the master axis,
the slave axis and the individual diagrams. This also includes the fonts and lines used for the
display.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

35

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam

3.5.2

Show/hide diagram

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Showing/Hiding a diagram
To show/hide a diagram:
1. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.
2. In the Cam > Diagrams menu item, click the diagram you wish to show/hide. The diagram
is shown/hidden.

Figure 3-10

Showing/hiding diagrams

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

36

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam

3.5.3

Change axis representation parameters

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing representation parameters for axes

To change the representation parameters for the master axis or slave axis:
1. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.
2. In the Cam > Representation parameters menu item, click the axis whose representation
parameters you wish to change.
3. The Master properties window (for the master axis) or
the S diagram (slave) properties window (for the slave axis) appears.
Change the representation parameters for the master axis in Master properties.

Figure 3-11

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Master properties window

37

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam
Change the representation parameters for the slave axis in S diagram (slave) properties.

Figure 3-12

Slave properties window

Table 3- 2

Parameters in the window for the master or S diagram (slave) properties

Field/Button

Master range
(Master properties)

Meaning/Operation
Specify the master range (definition range) for the curve by
setting its start and end points. Cam segments must be
contained within the master range (see also Master range
under Target device properties on the Coordinates tab).

Start

Here, you enter the start point of the curve or the start of the
curve's master range.

End

Here, you enter the end point of the curve or the end of the
curve's master range.

Representation range
Start

Here, you specify the start of the representation range.

(Number of periods deactivated)

If the Number of periods option is activated, the system will

specify the start.

End

Here, you enter the end of the representation range.

(Number of periods deactivated)

If the Number of periods option is activated, the system will

specify the end.

Number of periods

If you have specified the Cyclic absolute or Cyclic relative

execution type under Target device parameters on the
Coordinates tab, you will be able to select
the Number of periods option. Enter the number of periods
you want to display here.

(Cyclic absolute, Cyclic relative)

38

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam
Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Grid lines
Set automatically

If you activate Set automatically, the optimum distance

between the grid lines will be set automatically.
If you deactivate Set automatically, you will be able to
specify the distance between the grid lines under
Main line spacing or Auxiliary line spacing.

Main line spacing

This is where you activate Main line spacing for the grid
lines.
If you deactivate the Set automatically option, you will be
able to set the distance between the grid lines for main line
spacing.
Note:
The distance between the grid lines defined in main line
spacing must be a multiple of the distance between the
specifications for grid lines with auxiliary line spacing.

Auxiliary line spacing

(Main line spacing activated)

If the Main line spacing option is activated, you will also be

able to activate the grid line display for
Auxiliary line spacing.
If you deactivate the Set automatically option, you will be
able to set the distance between the grid lines for auxiliary
line spacing.
Note:
The distance between the grid lines defined in main line
spacing must be a multiple of the distance between the
specifications for grid lines with auxiliary line spacing.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

39

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam

3.5.4

Change diagram representation parameters

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing representation parameters for a diagram

To change the representation parameters for the V diagram (velocity diagram), A diagram
(acceleration diagram), or the J diagram (jerk diagram):
1. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.
2. In the Cam > Representation parameters menu item, click the diagram whose
representation parameters you wish to change.
3. The V diagram properties window (for the velocity diagram), the
A diagram properties window (for the acceleration diagram), or the
J diagram properties window (for the jerk diagram) appears.
For the V diagram (velocity diagram), change the representation parameters in
V diagram properties.

Figure 3-13

40

V diagram properties window

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam
For the A diagram (acceleration diagram), change the representation parameters in
A diagram properties.

Figure 3-14

A diagram properties window

For the J diagram (jerk diagram), change the representation parameters in

J diagram properties.

Figure 3-15

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

J diagram properties window

41

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam
Table 3- 3

Parameters in the V/A/J diagram properties window

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Representation range
Automatic

If you activate Automatic, the representation range will be

automatically adapted in the Y direction to fit the value
range for the curve shown.
If you deactivate Automatic, you will be able to specify the
representation range in the Y-direction using
Maximum value and Minimum value.

Maximum value
(Automatic deactivated)

Minimum value
(Automatic deactivated)

Here, you enter the maximum value of the representation

range.
If the Automatic option is activated, the system will specify
the maximum value.
Here, you enter the minimum value of the representation
range.
If the Automatic option is activated, the system will specify
the minimum value.

Grid lines
Set automatically

If you activate Set automatically, the optimum distance

between the grid lines will be set automatically.
If you deactivate Set automatically, you will be able to
specify the distance between the grid lines under
Main line spacing or Auxiliary line spacing.

Main line spacing

This is where you activate Main line spacing for the grid
lines.
If you deactivate the Set automatically option, you will be
able to set the distance between the grid lines for main line
spacing.
Note:
The distance between the grid lines defined in main line
spacing must be a multiple of the distance between the
specifications for grid lines with auxiliary line spacing.

Auxiliary line spacing

(Main line spacing activated)

If the Main line spacing option is activated, you will also be

able to activate the grid line display for
Auxiliary line spacing.
If you deactivate the Set automatically option, you will be
able to set the distance between the grid lines for auxiliary
line spacing.
Note:
The distance between the grid lines defined in main line
spacing must be a multiple of the distance between the
specifications for grid lines with auxiliary line spacing.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

42

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam

3.5.5

Change lines and fonts representation parameters

Default parameters for lines and fonts are used when displaying diagrams. You can change
these default settings.

/LQHIRUFDPVHJPHQWV
,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYHLQWKHGLVWDQFHGLDJUDP

/LQHIRUVLPXODWHGLQWHUSRODWLRQ

<FRRUGLQDWHD[LV

$X[LOLDU\JULGOLQHV
0DLQJULGOLQH

9HORFLW\FXUYH
;FRRUGLQDWHD[LV
$X[LOLDU\OLQH
$FFHOHUDWLRQFXUYH

$X[LOLDU\OLQH
-HUNFXUYH

Figure 3-16

Representation parameters in diagrams (lines for scaling and physical limit value are not shown)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

43

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam
Table 3- 4

Representation parameters in diagrams

Representation parameters

Note

Main grid lines

You can change the type and color of the line.

Auxiliary grid lines

You can change the type and color of the line.

Auxiliary line

You can change the type, color, and width of the

line.

Line at physical limit

You can change the type, color, and width of the

line.

X-axis

You can change the color and width of the line.

Y-axis

You can change the color and width of the line.

Line for simulated interpolation

You can change the color and width of the line.

Line for simulated interpolation is used to display
a transition interpolated by the target device.

Interpolation curve in the path diagram

You can change the color and width of the line.

Velocity curve

You can change the color and width of the line.

Acceleration curve

You can change the color and width of the line.

Jerk curve

You can change the color and width of the line.

Line for cam segments

You can change the color and width of the line.

Line for scaling

You can change the color and width of the line.

The line for scaling is used to display a cam
profile which has been scaled and moved.

44

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing representation parameters for lines and fonts

To change representation parameters for lines and fonts: :
1. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.
2. Click Lines and fonts in the Cam > Representation parameters menu item.
3. The Lines and fonts window appears.
You can change the representation parameters for the lines on the Line tab.
Table 3- 5

Parameters on the Line tab

Field/Button

Type of line

Meaning/Operation
Here, you select the type of line you wish to specify.
The associated parameters and the type of line are
displayed under Settings.

Settings

Note:
Grayed-out parameters cannot be changed.

Type

Here, you select the type of line.

You can use Preview to display the type of line.

Color

Here, you select the color of the line.

You can use Preview to display the line.

Width

Here, you select the width of the line.

You can use Preview to display the type of line.

Preview

Select Preview to display the type, color, and width

specified for the line.

You can change the representation parameters for fonts on the Fonts tab.
Table 3- 6

Parameters on the Fonts tab

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Settings
Font

Here, you select the font.

You can use Preview to display the font.

Font scheme

Here, you select the font scheme.

You can use Preview to display the font.

Font size

Here, you select the font size.

You can use Preview to display the font.

Preview

Select Preview to display the font specifications made in

font, font scheme, and font size.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

45

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam

3.5.6

Displaying auxiliary lines in the diagram

You can display horizontal and vertical auxiliary lines in individual diagrams. Auxiliary lines
can be used, for example, to determine the position of individual points on the cam profile.

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Displaying a horizontal auxiliary line in a diagram

To display a horizontal auxiliary line (in the direction of the X-axis) in a diagram:
1. In the diagram where you want to display a horizontal auxiliary line, click the X-axis and
hold the mouse button down. The current position of the auxiliary line is displayed in the
positioning window.
2. Drag the auxiliary line to the position where you wish to display it and release the mouse
button. The auxiliary line and the positioning window showing its current position appear
in the diagram.

Figure 3-17

46

Displaying a horizontal auxiliary line

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam

Displaying a vertical auxiliary line in all diagrams on show

To display a vertical auxiliary line (in the direction of the Y-axis) in all diagrams on show:
1. Click the Y-axis in a diagram and hold the mouse button down. The current position of the
auxiliary line is displayed in the positioning window.
2. Drag the auxiliary line to the position where you wish to display it and release the mouse
button. The auxiliary line and the positioning window showing its current position appear
in all the diagrams that are on show.

Figure 3-18

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Displaying a vertical auxiliary line

47

Configuring
3.5 Customize the display of the cam

Moving a positioning window along an auxiliary line

To move a positioning window showing the current position of the auxiliary line along the
horizontal or vertical auxiliary line:
1. Place the cursor on the positioning window. The cursor indicates the direction in which
you can move the window. Drag and drop the window showing the current position to the
new position.

Figure 3-19

Moving a positioning window horizontally

Deleting an auxiliary line in a diagram

To delete a horizontal or vertical auxiliary line in a diagram:
1. Select the auxiliary line you wish to delete.
2. Press the DEL key. The auxiliary line is deleted.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

48

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Configuring
3.6 Download cam to SIMOTION device

3.6

Download cam to SIMOTION device

Requirements
The cam is opened with SIMOTION CamTool.
NOTICE
If you create a cam and the cam has never been previously downloaded to the SIMOTION
device, you must first download the entire configuration with the new cam to the SIMOTION
device.
Only then can you download the cam independent of the other technology objects in the
SIMOTION device. The download is only possible in ONLINE status.

Download cam to SIMOTION device

To download a cam to a SIMOTION device:
1. Click the menu Project > Connect to target system. The system changes to ONLINE
status.
2. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.
3. Click the menu Cam > Download cam. The cam is downloaded to the SIMOTION device.
4. After the download, you can change back to OFFLINE status. Click the menu
Project > Disconnect from target system.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

49

Configuring
3.6 Download cam to SIMOTION device

50

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.1

Content

Overview
In this chapter you learn how you can use SIMOTION CamTool to create and optimize a
cam, and to make the simulation settings. In addition, you learn how you can use CamTool
to edit a cam created with CamEdit and how you can export a cam as a text file.
Note
The following operating instructions primarily describe the operation of SIMOTION CamTool
using the functions in the menu bar.
You can also execute the functions from the context menus. In this case, right-click the
element that you want to edit.
You can also execute the most import functions using the icons in the SIMOTION CamTool
toolbar. Pay attention to the Tooltip which is displayed when you place the mouse pointer on
an icon in the toolbar.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

51

Functions
4.2 Structure of a cam

4.2

Structure of a cam

Introduction
Create the cam in the S diagram (path diagram). The cam profile reflects the path-related
interdependence between the master axis (X-axis in the diagram) and the slave axis (Y-axis
in the diagram).

Cam structure
The cam consists of individual cam segments.
With SIMOTION CamTool, you can use fixed points, straight lines, sine curves, arc sine
curves, and interpolation points as cam segments.
SIMOTION CamTool calculates interpolation curves between individual cam segments and
displays the V diagram (velocity diagram), A diagram (acceleration diagram), and J diagram
(jerk diagram).

6WUDLJKWOLQH

6WUDLJKWOLQH

6GLDJUDPGLVWDQFHGLDJUDP

)L[HGSRLQW
,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYH

,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYH

9GLDJUDPYHORFLW\GLDJUDP

$GLDJUDPDFFHOHUDWLRQGLDJUDP
,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYH

-GLDJUDPMHUNGLDJUDP
,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYH

Figure 4-1

52

Example of a cam with interpolation curves

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.3 Fixed point

4.3

Fixed point

4.3.1

Fixed Point Definition

Definition
The cam consists of individual cam segments. With SIMOTION CamTool, you can use fixed
points, lines, sine curves, arc sine curves, and interpolation points as cam segments.
A fixed point is a predefined slave axis position for a given master axis position. You can
specify the velocity and acceleration at the position of the fixed point.
Note
Use a fixed point to specify a single, fixed position. CamTool calculates optimum transitions
between adjacent cam segments.
Interpolation points (Page 79) must be used for any profile you wish to define. CamTool links
the individual interpolation points with a cubic spline in order to create the profile specified by
the interpolation points as accurately as possible.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

53

Functions
4.3 Fixed point

4.3.2

Insert fixed point

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Inserting a fixed point

To insert a fixed point:
1. Click the S diagram (path diagram) to activate it.
2. Click Cam > Insert at fixed point. The cursor changes appearance.
3. Place the modified cursor at the position in the S diagram (path diagram) where you wish
to insert the fixed point and click.
The fixed point appears in the diagram. The position of the fixed point is shown in the tool
tip.

Figure 4-2

54

Inserting a fixed point

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.3 Fixed point

Note
Once you have activated the Cam > Insert > Fixed point function, you can continue
inserting fixed points in the S diagram (path diagram) until:
You press the ESC key
You right-click (to activate the selection tool in the toolbar), or
You activate another cam segment (straight line, sine curve, arc sine curve,
interpolation point) for insertion.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.3.3

Change fixed point position

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing the position of a fixed point

To change the position of a fixed point:
1. Select the fixed point in the S diagram (path diagram). The position of the fixed point is
shown in the tool tip.
2. Drag and drop the fixed point to the new position.
or
1. Double-click the fixed point. The Fixed point properties window appears.
2. Enter the fixed point's new x- or y position on the Position tab (Page 58) and click OK.
The diagram is updated to show the fixed point's new position.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

55

Functions
4.3 Fixed point

4.3.4

Changing the velocity at the position of a fixed point

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing the velocity of a fixed point

To change the velocity at the position of a fixed point:
1. The velocity at the position of a fixed point is shown in the form of a handle in the
V diagram (velocity diagram).
Select the handle. The cursor indicates the direction in which you can move the handle.
2. Drag and drop the handle to the new position.
or
1. Double-click the fixed point. The Fixed point properties window appears.
2. Enter the new velocity on the Dynamics tab (Page 59) in accordance with the table below
and click OK. The handle in the V diagram (velocity diagram) appears at the new
position.
Field/Button
v=

Meaning/Operation
v = indicates the current velocity at the position of the fixed point
(see note below).

a=

a = indicates the current acceleration at the position of the fixed point.

(manual input activated)

If Manual input is deactivated, the system will calculate the acceleration

value. The jerk diagram (J diagram) will then be constant at the fixed
point.
If Manual input is activated, you will be able to enter an acceleration
value. To change the acceleration, enter the new acceleration value under
a = and click Accept or OK. The diagrams update their display of the fixed
point.

Manual input

If you activate Manual input, you will be able to enter an acceleration

value under a =.
If you deactivate Manual input, the system will calculate the acceleration
value. The jerk diagram (J diagram) will then be constant at the fixed
point.

NOTICE
If you want to specify an absolute slave velocity, you must select an
absolute master velocity for calculations in the Simulation settings window.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

56

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.3 Fixed point

4.3.5

Changing the acceleration at a fixed point position:

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing the acceleration of a fixed point

To change the acceleration at the position of a fixed point:
1. Right-click the fixed point and select Direct Entry for Acceleration in the context menu
which appears.
2. The acceleration at the position of a fixed point is shown in the form of a handle in the
A diagram (acceleration diagram).
Select the handle. The cursor indicates the direction in which you can move the handle.
3. Drag and drop the handle to the new position.
or
1. Double-click the fixed point. The Fixed point properties window appears.
2. Activate the Manual input option on the Dynamics tab (Page 59) and enter the new
acceleration value.
3. Click OK. The handle in the A diagram (acceleration diagram) appears at the new
position.
NOTICE
If you want to specify an absolute slave acceleration, you must select an absolute
master velocity for calculations in the Simulation settings window.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

57

Functions
4.3 Fixed point

4.3.6

Delete fixed point

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Deleting a fixed point

To delete a fixed point:
1. Select the fixed point you wish to delete.
2. Press the DEL key. The fixed point is deleted and all the diagrams amend their cam
displays.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.3.7

Position, fixed point properties

Position tab
Here, you specify the position of the fixed point in the path diagram.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 1

Parameters on the Position tab (Fixed point properties window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Position

58

x=

x = indicates the current x position of the fixed point.

To change the position, enter the new position under x =
and click Accept or OK. The diagram updates its display of
the fixed point.

y=

y = indicates the current y position of the fixed point.

To change the position, enter the new position under y =
and click Accept or OK. The diagram updates its display of
the fixed point.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.3 Fixed point

4.3.8

Dynamic response, fixed point properties

Dynamics tab
Here, you specify the dynamic response of the fixed point.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 2

Parameters on the Dynamics tab (Fixed point properties window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Dynamics
v=

v = indicates the current velocity at the position of the fixed

point
To change the velocity, enter the new velocity value under
v = and click Accept or OK. The diagrams update their
display of the fixed point.
Note:
If you want to specify an absolute slave velocity, you must
select an absolute master velocity for calculations in the
Simulation settings window.

a=
(manual input activated)

a = indicates the current acceleration at the position of the

fixed point.
If Manual input is deactivated, the system will calculate the
acceleration value. The jerk diagram (J diagram) will then
be constant at the fixed point.
If Manual input is activated, you will be able to enter an
acceleration value. To change the acceleration, enter the
new acceleration value under a = and click Accept or OK.
The diagrams update their display of the fixed point.

Manual input

If you activate Manual input, you will be able to enter an

acceleration value under a =.
If you deactivate Manual input, the system will calculate the
acceleration value. The jerk diagram (J diagram) will then
be constant at the fixed point.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

59

Functions
4.4 Straight line

4.4

Straight line

4.4.1

Definition straight line

Definition
The cam consists of individual cam segments. With SIMOTION CamTool, you can use fixed
points, lines, sine curves, arc sine curves, and interpolation points as cam segments.
A straight line defines a synchronous section in the cam. You can specify the velocity along
the straight line.

60

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.4 Straight line

4.4.2

Insert straight line

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Inserting a straight line

To insert a straight line:
1. Click the S diagram (path diagram) to activate it.
2. Click Straight line in the Cam > Insert menu item. The cursor changes appearance.
Place the modified cursor at the position in the S diagram (path diagram) where you wish
to insert the straight line and click. The straight line (whose size is predetermined) is
inserted.
The current position of the straight line is displayed in the tool tip.

Figure 4-3

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Inserting a straight line

61

Functions
4.4 Straight line

Note
Once you have activated the Cam > Insert > Straight line function, you can continue
inserting straight lines in the S diagram (path diagram) until:
You press the ESC key
You right-click (to activate the selection tool in the toolbar), or
You activate another cam segment (fixed point, sine curve, arc sine curve,
interpolation point) for insertion.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

62

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.4 Straight line

4.4.3

Change straight line position

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing the position of a straight line

To change the position of a straight line:
1. Select the straight line in the S diagram (path diagram). The position of the straight line is
displayed in the tool tip.
2. The straight line is displayed with handles. Drag and drop the handles for the straight line
to the new positions.
or
1. Select the straight line in the S diagram (path diagram). The position of the straight line is
displayed in the tool tip.
2. Drag and drop the entire straight line to the new position.

Figure 4-4

Changing the position of an entire straight line

or
1. Double-click the straight line. The Straight line properties window appears.
2. Enter the new positions on the Position tab (Page 66) (left: x1 and y1, right: x2 and y2)
and click OK. The diagram is updated to show the new positions of the straight lines.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

63

Functions
4.4 Straight line

4.4.4

Changing the velocity along a straight line

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing the velocity for a straight line

To change the velocity along a straight line:
1. The velocity along a straight line is represented by a line in the
V diagram (velocity diagram).
Select the line. The cursor indicates the direction in which you can move the line.
2. Drag and drop the entire line to the new position. The S diagram (path diagram) is
adapted automatically.

Figure 4-5

Changing the velocity along a straight line

or
1. Double-click the straight line. The Straight line properties window appears.
2. Enter the new velocity on the Dynamics tab (Page 67) and click OK. The line in the
V diagram (velocity diagram) appears at the new position. The S diagram (path diagram)
is adapted automatically.
NOTICE
If you want to specify an absolute slave velocity, you must select an absolute
master velocity for calculations in the Simulation settings window.

64

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.4 Straight line

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.4.5

Delete straight line

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Deleting a straight line

To delete a straight line:
1. Select the straight line you wish to delete.
2. Press the DEL key. The straight line is deleted and all the diagrams amend their cam
displays.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

65

Functions
4.4 Straight line

4.4.6

Position, straight line properties

Position tab
Here, you specify the position of the straight line in the path diagram.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 3

Parameters on the Position tab (Straight line properties window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Position
Left
x1 =

x1 = indicates the current x1 position of the straight line.

To change the position, enter the new position under x1 =
and click Accept or OK. The diagram updates its display of
the straight line.

y1 =

y1 = indicates the current y1 position of the straight line.

To change the position of the straight line, enter the new
position under y1 = and click Accept or OK. The diagram
updates its display of the straight line.

Right

66

x2 =

x2 = indicates the current x2 position of the straight line.

To change the position, enter the new position under x2 =
and click Accept or OK. The diagram updates its display of
the straight line.

y2 =

y2 = indicates the current y2 position of the straight line.

To change the position of the straight line, enter the new
position under y2 = and click Accept or OK. The diagram
updates its display of the straight line.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.4 Straight line

4.4.7

Dynamic response, straight line properties

Dynamics tab
Here, you specify the dynamic response of the straight line.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 4

Parameters on the Dynamics tab (Straight line properties window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Dynamics
v=

v = indicates the current velocity for the straight line.

To change the velocity, enter the new velocity value under
v = and click Accept or OK. The diagrams update their
display of the straight line.
Note:
If you want to specify an absolute slave velocity, you must
select an absolute master velocity for calculations in the
Simulation settings window.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

67

Functions
4.5 Sine curve

4.5

Sine curve

4.5.1

Insert sine curve

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Inserting a sine curve

To insert a sine curve:
1. Click the S diagram (path diagram) to activate it.
2. Click Sin in the Cam > Insert > Functions menu item. The cursor changes appearance.
3. Place the modified cursor at the position in the S diagram (path diagram) where you wish
to insert the sine curve and click. The sine curve (whose size is predetermined) is
inserted.
The current position of the sine curve is displayed in the tool tip.

Figure 4-6

68

Inserting a sine curve

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.5 Sine curve

Note
Once you have activated the Cam > Insert > Sin function, you can continue inserting sine
curves in the S diagram (path diagram) until:
You press the ESC key
You right-click (to activate the selection tool in the toolbar), or
You activate another cam segment (fixed point, straight line, arc sine curve,
interpolation point) for insertion.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.5.2

Change sine curve position

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing the position of a sine curve

To change the position of a sine curve:
1. Select the sine curve in the S diagram (path diagram).
The current position of the sine curve is displayed in the tool tip.
2. The sine curve is displayed with handles. Place the cursor over a handle. The cursor
indicates the direction in which you can move the handle.
3. Drag and drop the handles to the new positions.

Figure 4-7

Changing the position of a sine curve

or

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

69

Functions
4.5 Sine curve
1. Select the sine curve in the S diagram (path diagram).
The current position of the sine curve is displayed in the tool tip.
2. Drag and drop the entire sine curve to the new position.

Figure 4-8

Changing the position of an entire sine curve

or
1. Double-click the sine curve. The Fx sine properties window appears.
2. Enter the new positions on the Position tab (Page 72) and click OK. The sine curve is
displayed at the new positions.

Figure 4-9

Position tab (Fx sine properties window)

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

70

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.5 Sine curve

4.5.3

Change sine curve definition range

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing the definition range of a sine curve

To change the definition range of a sine curve:
1. Select the sine curve in the S diagram (path diagram).
The current position of the sine curve is displayed in the tool tip.
2. The sine curve is displayed with handles. The handles for the definition range are marked
in green. Place the cursor over a handle marked in green. The cursor indicates the
direction in which you can move the handle.
3. Drag and drop the green handles to the new positions. While the handles are being
moved, the current value for the relevant definition range limit is displayed in the tool tip.

Figure 4-10

Changing the definition range of a sine curve

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

71

Functions
4.5 Sine curve

4.5.4

Delete sine curve

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Deleting a sine curve

To delete a sine curve:
1. Select the sine curve you wish to delete.
2. Press the DEL key. The sine curve is deleted and all the diagrams amend their cam
displays.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.5.5

Position, Fx sine properties

Position tab
Here, you specify the position of the sine curve in the path diagram.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 5

Parameters on the Position tab (Fx sine properties window)

Field/Button

Parameters

72

Meaning/Operation
The current parameters for the sine curve are shown in the
input fields.
To change the position, enter the new position in the input
fields and click Accept or OK. The diagram updates its
display of the sine curve.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.6 Arc Sine Curve

4.6

Arc Sine Curve

4.6.1

Insert arc sine curve

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.
Note
The arc sine curve is calculated as an interpolation point table. You can specify the number
of interpolation points in the Fx arc sine properties window. Double-click the arc sine curve to
show the window.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

73

Functions
4.6 Arc Sine Curve

Inserting an arc sine curve

To insert an arc sine curve:
1. Click the S diagram (path diagram) to activate it.
2. Click Arcsin in the Cam > Insert > Functions menu item. The cursor changes appearance.
3. Place the modified cursor at the position in the S diagram (path diagram) where you wish
to insert the arc sine curve and click. The arc sine curve (whose size is predetermined) is
inserted.
The current position of the arc sine curve is displayed in the tool tip.

Figure 4-11

Inserting an arc sine curve

Note
Once you have activated the Cam > Insert > Arcsin function, you can continue inserting
arc sine curves in the S diagram (path diagram) until:
You press the ESC key
You right-click (to activate the selection tool in the toolbar), or
You activate another cam segment (fixed point, straight line, sine curve, interpolation
point) for insertion.

74

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.6 Arc Sine Curve

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.6.2

Change arc sine curve position

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing the position of an arc sine curve

To change the position of an arc sine curve:
1. Select the arc sine curve in the S diagram (path diagram).
The current position of the arc sine curve is displayed in the tool tip.
2. The arc sine curve is displayed with handles. Place the cursor over a handle. The cursor
indicates the direction in which you can move the handle.
3. Drag and drop the handles to the new positions.

Figure 4-12

Changing the position of an arc sine curve

or
1. Select the arc sine curve in the S diagram (path diagram).
The current position of the arc sine curve is displayed in the tool tip.
2. Drag and drop the entire arc sine curve to the new position.

Figure 4-13

Changing the position of an entire arc sine curve

or

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

75

Functions
4.6 Arc Sine Curve
1. Double-click the arc sine curve.
The Fx arc sine properties window appears.
2. Enter the new positions and the number of interpolation points on the Position tab
(Page 78) and click OK. The arc sine curve is displayed at the new positions. The system
saves the arc sine curve as an interpolation point table.

Figure 4-14

Position tab

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

76

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.6 Arc Sine Curve

4.6.3

Change arc sine curve definition range

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing the definition range of an arc sine curve

To change the definition range of an arc sine curve:
1. Select the arc sine curve in the S diagram (path diagram).
The current position of the arc sine curve is displayed in the tool tip.
2. The arc sine curve is displayed with handles. The handles for the definition range are
marked in green. Place the cursor over a handle marked in green. The cursor indicates
the direction in which you can move the handle.
3. Drag and drop the green handles to the new positions. While the handles are being
moved, the current value for the relevant definition range limit is displayed in the tool tip.

Figure 4-15

Changing the definition range of an arc sine curve

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

77

Functions
4.6 Arc Sine Curve

4.6.4

Delete arc sine curve

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Deleting an arc sine curve

To delete an arc sine curve:
1. Select the arc sine curve you wish to delete.
2. Press the DEL key. The arc sine curve is deleted and all the diagrams amend their cam
displays.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.6.5

Position, Fx arc sine properties

Position tab
Here, you specify the position of the arc sine curve in the path diagram.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 6

Parameters on the Position tab (Fx arc sine properties window)

Field/Button

Parameters

Meaning/Operation
The current parameters for the arc sine curve are shown in
the input fields.
To change the position, enter the new position in the input
fields and click Accept or OK. The diagram updates its
display of the arc sine curve.

Interpolation points
No. of interpolation points

78

The system saves the arc sine curve as an interpolation

point table. Here, you enter the no. of interpolation points for
the arc sine curve.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.7 Interpolation point

4.7

Interpolation point

4.7.1

Interpolation Point Definition

Definition
The cam consists of individual cam segments. Under SIMOTION CamTool, you can use
fixed points, straight lines, sine curves, arc sine curves and interpolation points as cam
segments.
An interpolation point is a specified position in the S diagram (distance diagram).

4.7.2

Insert interpolation point

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.
Note
Use a fixed point (Page 54) to specify a single, fixed position. CamTool calculates optimum
transitions between adjacent cam segments.
Interpolation points must be used for any profile you wish to define. CamTool links the
interpolation points with a cubic spline in order to create the profile specified by the
interpolation points as accurately as possible.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

79

Functions
4.7 Interpolation point

Inserting an interpolation point

To insert an interpolation point:
1. Click the S diagram (path diagram) to activate it.
2. Click Interpolation point in the Cam > Insert menu item. The cursor changes appearance.
3. Place the modified cursor at the position in the S diagram (path diagram) where you wish
to insert the interpolation point and click.
The interpolation point appears in the diagram. The position of the interpolation point is
shown in the tool tip.

Figure 4-16

Inserting an interpolation point

Note
Once you have activated the Cam > Insert > Interpolation point function, you can
continue inserting interpolation points in the S diagram (path diagram) until:
You press the ESC key
You right-click (to activate the selection tool in the toolbar), or
You activate another cam segment (fixed point, straight line, sine curve, arc sine
curve) for insertion.

80

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.7 Interpolation point

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.7.3

Changing the interpolation point position

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Changing the position of an interpolation point

To change the position of an interpolation point:
1. Select the interpolation point in the S diagram (path diagram). The position of the
interpolation point is shown in the tool tip.
2. Drag and drop the interpolation point to the new position.
or
1. Double-click the interpolation point. The Interpolation point properties window appears.
2. Enter the new position on the Position tab (Page 82) and click OK. The interpolation point
appears at the new position.

Figure 4-17

Position tab

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

81

Functions
4.7 Interpolation point

4.7.4

Delete interpolation point

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Deleting an interpolation point

To delete an interpolation point:
1. Select the interpolation point you wish to delete.
2. Press the DEL key. The interpolation point is deleted and all the diagrams amend their
cam displays.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.7.5

Position, interpolation point properties

Position tab
Here, you specify the position of the interpolation point in the path diagram.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 7

Parameters on the Position tab (Interpolation point properties window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Position

82

x=

x = indicates the current x position of the interpolation point.

To change the position, enter the new position under x =
and click Accept or OK. The diagram updates its display of
the interpolation point.

y=

y = indicates the current y position of the interpolation point.

To change the position, enter the new position under y =
and click Accept or OK. The diagram updates its display of
the interpolation point.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.8 Optimizing a Cam

4.8

Optimizing a Cam

4.8.1

Optimizing a Cam

Introduction
Create the cam in the S diagram (path diagram). The cam profile reflects the path-related
interdependence between the master axis (X-axis in the diagram) and the slave axis (Y-axis
in the diagram).

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

83

Functions
4.8 Optimizing a Cam

Cam structure
The cam consists of individual cam segments.
With SIMOTION CamTool, you can use fixed points, straight lines, sine curves, arc sine
curves, and interpolation points as cam segments.
SIMOTION CamTool calculates interpolation curves between individual cam segments and
displays the V diagram (velocity diagram), A diagram (acceleration diagram), and J diagram
(jerk diagram).

6WUDLJKWOLQH

6WUDLJKWOLQH

6GLDJUDPGLVWDQFHGLDJUDP

)L[HGSRLQW
,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYH

,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYH

9GLDJUDPYHORFLW\GLDJUDP

$GLDJUDPDFFHOHUDWLRQGLDJUDP
,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYH

-GLDJUDPMHUNGLDJUDP
,QWHUSRODWLRQFXUYH

Figure 4-18

84

Example of a cam with interpolation curves

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.8 Optimizing a Cam

4.8.2

Optimize transition

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Optimizing a transition
To optimize a transition:
1. Right-click the transition you wish to optimize and select Properties in the context menu
which appears.

Figure 4-19

Selecting a transition for optimization

2. The Interpolation curve properties window appears. Specify the parameters on the
Type tab (Page 87).

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

85

Functions
4.8 Optimizing a Cam
3. Click the Parameters tab (Page 88) and specify the parameters.
4. Click the Limit values tab (Page 89) to display the minimum and maximum values for the
interpolation curve.
Note
Where the slave axis is concerned, you can accept the settings of an existing axis in the
project via Cam > Simulation Settings and specify the axis limits. These simulation
settings for the slave axis are used to calculate the percentage values displayed on the
Limit values tab.
or
1. For the purpose of optimizing the cam, use the handles which, depending on the settings
in the Interpolation curve properties window, are shown in the individual diagrams.
2. When positioned over a handle, the cursor indicates the direction in which you can move
the handle.
3. Drag and drop the handle to the new position. All the diagrams amend their cam displays.

Figure 4-20

86

Optimizing a cam by dragging and dropping a handle

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.8 Optimizing a Cam

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.8.3

Interpolation Curve properties

Here, you specify the parameters for the interpolation curve transition.

4.8.4

Type - Interpolation curve properties

Type
Here, you specify the type of interpolation curve for the transition.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 8

Parameters on the Type tab (Interpolation curve properties window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Transition

The type of transition is displayed here.

Allow interpolation by target device

If you activate this option, the system does not generate any
interpolation curves. The transition is interpolated by the target device. If
you click Accept or OK, the diagrams will update their display of the
transition.

Optimize for
(Allow interpolation by target device
deactivated)
Do not optimize

If you select this option, all interpolation curves which are suitable for the
transition are displayed under Applicable motion rules.

Velocity

If you select this option, all interpolation curves which are suitable for
optimizing velocity for the transition are displayed under
Applicable motion rules.

Acceleration

If you select this option, all interpolation curves which are suitable for
optimizing acceleration for the transition are displayed under
Applicable motion rules.

Jerk

If you select this option, all interpolation curves which are suitable for
optimizing jerk for the transition are displayed under
Applicable motion rules.

Applicable motion rules

(Allow interpolation by target device
deactivated)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Applicable motion rules are displayed here. Select the motion rule you
wish to use for the transition. If you click Accept or OK, the diagrams will
update their display of the transition.
Depending on the motion rule used, you can specify additional
parameters on the Parameters tab.

87

Functions
4.8 Optimizing a Cam

4.8.5

Parameters - Interpolation curve properties

Parameters
Here, you specify the interpolation curve parameters for the transition.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 9

Parameters on the Parameters tab (Interpolation curve properties window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Jerk at boundary point

(Allow interpolation by target device
deactivated)
(For a 6th order polynomial)
Automatic

If you activate Automatic, the system calculates the jerk at the boundary
points. A 5th order polynomial is used for the calculation.
Note:
You can also activate this function via the context menu in the diagram
display: Right-click the transition and select
Automatic Jerk Characteristic in the context menu.

Left
(Automatic deactivated)
Right
(Automatic deactivated)
(Jerk value)
(Automatic deactivated)

If you activate Left, you will be able to specify the jerk at the interpolation
curve's left boundary point. Enter the jerk value in the input field.
If you activate Right, you will be able to specify the jerk at the
interpolation curve's right boundary point. Enter the jerk value in the
input field.
If you activate the Left or Right option, you will be able to enter the jerk
value here.
Note:
If you want to specify an absolute jerk value, you must select an
absolute master velocity for calculations in the
Simulation settings window.

Turning point of curve

(Allow interpolation by target device
deactivated)
(For sloping sine curve)
(For modified sine curve)
(For modified acceleration trapezoid)
(For harmonic combination)
Valid values are between 0 and 1

The turning point of the curve can be entered here.

Optimum Value

If you click this button, the optimum value for the turning point of the
curve is calculated by the system and entered under
Valid values are between 0 and 1.
Note:
You can also activate this function via the context menu in the diagram
display: Right-click the transition and select Optimum Value in the
context menu.

88

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.8 Optimizing a Cam

4.8.6

Limit Values - Interpolation curve properties

Limit Values
The interpolation curve's limit values for the transition are displayed here.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 10

Parameters on the Limit Values tab (Interpolation curve properties window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Position
Min.

The minimum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is undershot, the minimum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Max.

The maximum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is overshot, the maximum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Velocity
Min.

The minimum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is undershot, the minimum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Max.

The maximum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is overshot, the maximum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Acceleration (v > 0)
Min.

The minimum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is undershot, the minimum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Max.

The maximum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is overshot, the maximum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Acceleration (v < 0)
Min.

The minimum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is undershot, the minimum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Max.

The maximum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is overshot, the maximum value will be displayed against a red
background.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

89

Functions
4.8 Optimizing a Cam
Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Jerk (v > 0)
Min.

The minimum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is undershot, the minimum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Max.

The maximum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is overshot, the maximum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Jerk (v < 0)
Min.

The minimum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is undershot, the minimum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Max.

The maximum value is displayed as an absolute value and as a percentage value here, depending
on the physical limit value.
If the physical limit value is overshot, the maximum value will be displayed against a red
background.

Note
Where the slave axis is concerned, you can accept the settings of an existing axis in the
project via Cam > Simulation Settings and specify the axis limits. These simulation settings
for the slave axis are used to calculate the percentage values displayed on the Limit Values
tab.

90

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.9 Specify parameters for target device

4.9

Specify parameters for target device

Introduction
You can use the parameters for the target device to adapt the cam to the SIMOTION device
(e.g. by scaling the cam).

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Specifying parameters for the target device

To specify parameters for the target device:
1. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.
2. Click the Cam >Target Device Parameters menu item. The
Target device parameters window appears.

Figure 4-21

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Target device parameters window

91

Functions
4.9 Specify parameters for target device
3. Specify the parameters on the Coordinates tab (Page 93).
4. Click the Interpolation tab (Page 94) and specify the parameters.
5. Click the Scaling tab (Page 95) and specify the parameters.
Note
If you specify scaling details, you will be able to show or hide the scaled cam profile via
Cam > Representation parameters > Display Scaling.
When the scaled cam profile is displayed, you will not be able to edit the original curve in
the diagram displays.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

92

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.9 Specify parameters for target device

4.9.1

Target Device Parameters

Here, you specify parameters for the target device.

4.9.1.1

Coordinates - Target device parameters

Coordinates
Here, you specify the coordinates for the target device.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 11

Parameters on the Coordinates tab ( position window)

Field/Button

Master range

Meaning/Operation
Specify the master range (definition range) for the curve by setting its start and end
points. Cam segments must be contained within this master range (see also Master
range under S diagram (master) properties.

Start

Here, you enter the start point of the curve or the start of the curve's master range.

End

Here, you enter the end point of the curve or the end of the curve's master range.

Execution type
Non-cyclic

The execution type specifies the cam's interpolation via the target device at the
master range's boundary points.
If you select Non-cyclic as the execution type, the cam's profile will end when the
end value of the curve is reached. In general, the function values of the cam (slave
position) are different at the start and end points of the master range.
Note:
If you activate Non-cyclic, the master range will be displayed once in the horizontal
direction.

Cyclic absolute

If you select the Cyclic absolute execution type, the position will revert from the end
value to the initial value of the slave axis and the cam will be repeated. The cam's
function values (slave position) at the start and end points of the master range are
the same. If necessary, the target device will force these values to be the same
(mean) value.
Note:
If you activate Cyclic absolute, the master range can be displayed in the horizontal
direction again.

Cyclic relative

If you select the Cyclic relative execution type, the cam will be repeated (starting
from the end value of the slave axis). The cam's 1st derivative (velocity) at the start
and end points of the master range are the same. If necessary, the target device will
force these values to be the same (mean) value.
Note:
If you activate Cyclic relative, the master range can be displayed in the horizontal
and vertical direction again. You can use the Cycle start (slave) and Cycle length
(slave) parameters to optimize the display.

Cycle start (slave)

(Cyclic relative
activated)

Enter the starting point for the display in the vertical direction under Cycle start
(slave).

Cycle length (slave)

(Cyclic relative
activated)

Enter the length of the range displayed in the vertical direction under Cycle length
(slave).

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

93

Functions
4.9 Specify parameters for target device

4.9.1.2

Interpolation - position

Interpolation
Here, you specify the interpolation for the target device.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 12

Parameters on the Interpolation tab ( position window)

Field/Button

Interpolation type

Meaning/Operation
The curve in the master range can consist of individual segments. Gaps
may occur between the curve segments. If the gaps are wider than the
maximum specified size, the target device will perform interpolation
between the end points of the curve segments.
Specify the type of interpolation performed by the target device between
the gaps under Interpolation type.

Linear

If you select Linear as the interpolation type, the gap will be closed
smoothly by the insertion of straight-line sections between the
interpolation points.

Cubic splines

If you select Cubic splines as the interpolation type, a smooth method

capable of differentiation will be used to close the gap. The curve runs
through the specified interpolation points.

Bezier splines

If you select Bezier splines as the interpolation type, the approximation

curve will follow the specified interpolation points.

With gaps less than...

Master
Maintain gaps

Gaps may occur between the curve segments of the master axis. Here,
you specify the maximum size of gaps to be retained.

Merge points

Gaps may occur between the curve segments of the master axis. Here,
you specify the maximum size of gaps to be closed by merging the end
points.

Maintain gaps

Gaps may occur between the curve segments of the slave axis. Here,
you specify the maximum size of gaps to be retained.

Merge points

Gaps may occur between the curve segments of the slave axis. Here,
you specify the maximum size of gaps to be closed by merging the end
points.

Slave

94

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.9 Specify parameters for target device

4.9.1.3

Scaling - position

Scaling
Here, you specify the scaling for the target device.
Note
Select Cam > Representation parameters > Display Scaling to display the scaled cam
profile.
When the scaled cam profile is displayed, you will not be able to edit the original curve. To
re-enable editing of the original curve, select
Cam > Representation parameters > Display Scaling again.
If a cam is scaled by selecting Cam > Target Device Parameters and the Basic scaling input
field on the Scaling tab, or a cam which has already been scaled in SIMOTION CamEdit is
opened in SIMOTION CamTool, the scaled cam profile will only be displayed for the S
diagram (path diagram). The V, A, and J diagrams will only show the original (unscaled) cam
profile.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

95

Functions
4.9 Specify parameters for target device
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 13

Parameters on the Scaling tab (Target device parameters window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Master axis
Basic scaling

Here, you enter the basic scaling for the master axis. The coordinate origin always forms the
center of scaling.
Note:
Do not use any scaling values greater than 5. Greater values cause a roughness in the cam
profile

Scalings

Here, you can specify the scalings for two master axis ranges. The center of scaling forms the
start point of the scaling range.
Note:
Make sure there is no overlap when specifying two ranges.

(Range1)

Enter the range you wish to scale under From and To. Enter the scaling factor under Factor.
Note:
Do not use any scaling values greater than 5. Greater values cause a roughness in the cam
profile

(Range2)

Enter the range you wish to scale under From and To. Enter the scaling factor under Factor.
Note:
Do not use any scaling values greater than 5. Greater values cause a roughness in the cam
profile

Offset

Here, you can enter a factor for the master axis offset. If you have specified a scaling, the offset
will relate to the scaled curve. If you have not specified a scaling, the offset will relate to the
unscaled curve.

Slave axis
Basic scaling

Here, you enter the basic scaling for the slave axis. The coordinate origin always forms the center
of scaling.
Note:
Do not use any scaling values greater than 5. Greater values cause a roughness in the cam
profile

Scalings

Here, you can specify the scalings for two slave axis ranges. The center of scaling forms the start
point of the scaling range.
Note:
Make sure there is no overlap when specifying two ranges.

(Range1)

Enter the range you wish to scale under From and To. Enter the scaling factor under Factor.
Note:
Do not use any scaling values greater than 5. Greater values cause a roughness in the cam
profile

(Range2)

Enter the range you wish to scale under From and To. Enter the scaling factor under Factor.
Note:
Do not use any scaling values greater than 5. Greater values cause a roughness in the cam
profile

Offset

96

Here, you can enter a factor for the slave axis offset. If you have specified a scaling, the offset will
relate to the scaled curve. If you have not specified a scaling, the offset will relate to the unscaled
curve.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.10 Specify simulation settings

4.10

Specify simulation settings

Introduction
You can either take the axis settings for the master and slave axes from axes configured in
the SCOUT project or specify your own.

Requirement
The cam must be opened with SIMOTION CamTool.

Specifying simulation settings

To specify the simulation settings:
1. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.
2. Click the Cam >Simulation Settings menu item. The Simulation settings window opens.

Figure 4-22

Simulation settings window

3. Specify the parameters on the Master tab (Page 98).

4. Click the Slave tab (Page 100) and specify the parameters.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

4.10.1

Simulation Settings
Here, you specify the simulation settings for the master and slave axes.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

97

Functions
4.10 Specify simulation settings

4.10.1.1

Master - Simulation settings

Master tab
Here, you specify the simulation settings for the master axis.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 14

Parameters on the Master tab (Simulation settings window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Setting
Accept from axis

(Axis)

If you are creating the cam for an existing axis in the

project, you can select the axis here. The configured
values are accepted and displayed. You can change the
master velocity for calculations.
(External encoder)

If you are creating the cam for an existing external

encoder in the project, you can select the external
encoder here. The configured values are accepted and
displayed.
None

If you select None, you can specify all the parameters.

Time axis
If you select Time axis, you can to specify the dimension
unit under Properties.

Properties
(None setting)
(Time axis setting)
Linear axis
(None setting)
Rotary axis
(None setting)
Modulo rotary axis

If you select this option, you will simulate the master axis as
a linear axis.
If you select this option, you will simulate the master axis as
a rotary axis.

(None setting)

If you select this option, you will simulate the master axis as
a modulo rotary axis.

Type

Here, you select the type of axis.

(None setting)
Dimension unit
(None setting)
(Time axis setting)

Here, you specify the dimension unit for the axis. Select a
dimension unit or enter the dimension unit. If you click
Accept or OK, the diagrams will update their display of the
dimension unit.
Note:
The dimension unit is only used for display purposes. If the
dimension unit is changed, the values displayed will not be
converted.

98

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.10 Specify simulation settings
Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Master velocity for calculations

(Setting (axis))
(None setting)
Gear ratio (relative)

If you activate this option, all calculations will be based on

relative values (values relative to the master axis).

Accept standard velocity

If you activate this option, the configured default velocity for

the axis which you defined under Accept from axis will be
accepted. All calculations will be based on absolute values.

(Setting (axis))
User-defined

If you activate this option, you must enter a velocity under V

Master. All calculations will be based on absolute values.

V Master

If you activate User-defined, you must enter the master

velocity under V Master.

(User-defined activated)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

99

Functions
4.10 Specify simulation settings

4.10.1.2

Slave - Simulation settings

Slave tab
Here, you specify the simulation settings for the slave axis.
You can set the following parameters:
Table 4- 15

Parameters on the Slave tab (Simulation settings window)

Field/Button

Meaning/Operation

Setting
Accept from axis

(Axis)

If you are creating the cam for an existing axis in the

project, you can select the axis here. The configured
values are accepted and displayed.
None
If you select None, you can specify all the parameters.

Properties
(None setting)
Linear axis

If you select this option, you will simulate the slave axis as a
linear axis.

Rotary axis

If you select this option, you will simulate the slave axis as a
rotary axis.

Modulo rotary axis

If you select this option, you will simulate the slave axis as a
modulo rotary axis.

Type

Here, you select the type of axis.

Dimension unit

Here, you specify the dimension unit for the axis. Select a
dimension unit or enter the dimension unit. If you click
Accept or OK, the diagrams will update their display of the
dimension unit.
Note:
The dimension unit is only used for display purposes. If the
dimension unit is changed, the values displayed will not be
converted.

Limit
(None setting)
Minimum

Here, you enter the minimum limit for the slave axis.

Maximum

Here, you enter the maximum limit for the slave axis.

Modulo values
(None setting)
(Simulation slave-axis activated as a
modulo rotary axis)

100

Basis

If Modulo rotary axis is activated for slave axis simulation,

you must enter the modulo basis here.

Length

If Modulo rotary axis is activated for slave axis simulation,

you must enter the modulo length here.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.11 Edit cam created with CamTool with CamEdit

4.11

Edit cam created with CamTool with CamEdit

Converting a cam created with CamTool to CamEdit

To edit a cam created with CamTool using CamEdit:
1. Close the cam in SIMOTION CamTool.
2. In the project navigator, find the cam you wish to edit with SIMOTION CamEdit.
3. Right-click the cam and select Convert to CamEdit in the context menu that appears. The
cam will be opened the next time SIMOTION CamEdit is opened.
Note
You can use SIMOTION CamEdit to edit any cam containing either polynomials only or
interpolation points only. In general, such cams are those created with
SIMOTION CamTool whose cam segments do not contain arc sine curves.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

101

Functions
4.12 Export cam as text file

4.12

Export cam as text file

Introduction
You can export a cam created with SIMOTION CamTool as a text file (in order to edit the
cam in an external program, for example).
Note
The way the cam is represented in the text file is compatible with the Microsoft Excel CSV
format.

Exporting a cam as a text file

To export a cam as a text file:
1. Open the cam with SIMOTION CamTool.
2. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.
3. Click the Cam > Export menu item. The file selection window appears.
4. Select the destination for the text file under Save to and enter a designation for the text
file under Name.
5. Click OK in the file selection window. The cam is saved as a text file to the destination
selected and under the designation entered.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

102

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Functions
4.13 Print cam

4.13

Print cam

Introduction
You can use SIMOTION SCOUT to print a cam opened with SIMOTION CamTool. The
printout contains the cam's individual parameters and diagrams.
Note
The cam's printed diagrams reflect what can be seen on the screen view.

Printing a cam
To print a cam:
1. Open the cam with SIMOTION CamTool.
2. Click a diagram to show the Cam menu.
3. Use the Cam > Diagrams menu item to activate the diagrams you wish to display. The
diagrams are displayed.
4. Click the Project > Print menu item. The printer selection window appears.
5. Specify the printer, printing range, and number of copies.
6. Click OK. The cam is printed out.

See also
Changing the representation using the toolbar (Page 18)

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

103

Functions
4.13 Print cam

104

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Menus
5.1

Arcsin, Sin, Straight line, Interpolation point context menu CamTool

You can select the following functions:
Function

Meaning/information

Delete

Use this function to delete the cam object (arcsin, sin, straight line, or
interpolation point) from the S diagram (path diagram).

Properties

Use this function to specify the parameters for the cam segment (arcsin,
sin, straight line, or interpolation point).

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

105

Menus
5.2 Diagram area context menu - CamTool

5.2

Diagram area context menu - CamTool

You can select the following functions:
Function

Meaning/information

Insert
Functions
Arcsin

Use this function to insert an arc sine curve into the

S diagram (path diagram). Place the modified cursor at the position
where you want to insert the object and click.
Note:
You can change the position of the arc sine curve after inserting it, by
either dragging and dropping it or pulling the handles at the ends of the
curve. You can also do this via the Properties context menu.

Sin

Use this function to insert a sine curve into the

S diagram (path diagram). Place the modified cursor at the position
where you want to insert the object and click.
Note:
You can change the position of the sine curve after inserting it, by either
dragging and dropping it or pulling the handles at the ends of the curve.
You can also do this via the Properties context menu.

Fixed point

Use this function to insert a fixed point into the

S diagram (path diagram). Place the modified cursor at the position
where you want to insert the object and click.
Note:
You can change the position of the fixed point after inserting it, by either
dragging and dropping it or using the Properties context menu.

Straight line

Use this function to insert a straight line into the

S diagram (path diagram). Place the modified cursor at the position
where you want to insert the object and click.
Note:
You can change the position of the straight line after inserting it, by
either dragging and dropping it or pulling the handles at the ends of the
line. You can also do this via the Properties context menu.

Interpolation point

Use this function to insert an interpolation point into the

S diagram (path diagram). Place the modified cursor at the position
where you want to insert the object and click.
Note:
You can change the position of the interpolation point after inserting it,
by either dragging and dropping it or using the Properties context menu.

106

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Menus
5.3 Fixed point context menu - CamTool
Function
Target Device Parameters

Meaning/information
Use this function to edit the target device parameters.

Representation parameters
Display Scaling

Use this function to show or hide the scaled cam profile. Specify the
scaling via Cam > Target Device Parameters.
Note:
While the scaled cam profile is displayed, you will not be able to edit the
original curve in the S diagram (path diagram).

Master

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the master
axis.

Slave

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the slave
axis.

V diagram

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the V

diagram (velocity diagram).

A diagram

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the A

diagram (acceleration diagram).

J diagram

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the J

diagram (jerk diagram).

Lines and fonts

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the lines
and fonts in the diagrams.

Simulation Settings

Use this function to specify the simulation settings for the master axis
and the slave axis.

Diagrams
Velocity

Use this function to show or hide the V diagram (velocity diagram).

Acceleration

Use this function to show or hide the A diagram (acceleration diagram).

Jerk

Use this function to show or hide the J diagram (jerk diagram).

5.3

Fixed point context menu - CamTool

You can select the following functions:
Function

Meaning/information

Delete

Use this function to delete the fixed point from the S diagram (path
diagram).

Direct Entry for Acceleration

If you activate this function, you will be able to enter an acceleration

value under a = on the Dynamics tab in the Fixed point properties
window.
If you deactivate Direct Entry for Acceleration, the system will calculate
the acceleration value. The jerk diagram (J diagram) will then be
constant at the fixed point.

Properties

You can use this function to specify the fixed point parameters.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

107

Menus
5.4 Interpolation curve context menu - CamTool

5.4

Interpolation curve context menu - CamTool

You can select the following functions:
Function

Meaning/information

Optimum Value
(for sloping sine curve)
(for modifiied sine curve)
(for modified acceleration trapezoid)
(for harmonic combination)

If you activate this function, the system will calculate the optimum value
for the interpolation curve's turning point.

Automatic Jerk Characteristic

(for a 6th order polynomial)

If you activate this function, the system will calculate the jerk value at the
interpolation curve's boundary points.

Properties

You can use this function to specify the interpolation curve parameters.

5.5

X-axis context menu - CamTool

You can select the following functions:
Function

Diagram Properties

5.6

Meaning/information
You can use this function to specify the representation parameters for
the diagram.

Y-axis context menu - CamTool

You can select the following functions:
Function

Diagram Properties

108

Meaning/information
You can use this function to specify the representation parameters for
the diagram.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Menus
5.7 Cam menu - CamTool

5.7

Cam menu - CamTool

You can select the following functions:
Function

Close

Meaning/information
Use this function to close the active cam or the CamTool cam editor.

Properties

Use this function to display the properties of the active cam.

Import

Use this function to import a cam. The cam must be in the form of a text
file.

Export

Use this function to export the active cam to a text file.

Insert
Functions
Arcsin

Use this function to insert an arc sine curve into the

S diagram (path diagram). Place the modified cursor at the position
where you want to insert the object and click.
Note:
You can change the position of the arc sine curve after inserting it, by
either dragging and dropping it or pulling the handles at the ends of the
curve. You can also do this via the Properties context menu.

Sin

Use this function to insert a sine curve into the

S diagram (path diagram). Place the modified cursor at the position
where you want to insert the object and click.
Note:
You can change the position of the sine curve after inserting it, by either
dragging and dropping it or pulling the handles at the ends of the curve.
You can also do this via the Properties context menu.

Fixed point

Use this function to insert a fixed point into the

S diagram (path diagram). Place the modified cursor at the position
where you want to insert the object and click.
Note:
You can change the position of the fixed point after inserting it, by either
dragging and dropping it or using the Properties context menu.

Straight line

Use this function to insert a straight line into the

S diagram (path diagram). Place the modified cursor at the position
where you want to insert the object and click.
Note:
You can change the position of the straight line after inserting it, by
either dragging and dropping it or pulling the handles at the ends of the
line. You can also do this via the Properties context menu.

Interpolation point

Use this function to insert an interpolation point into the

S diagram (path diagram). Place the modified cursor at the position
where you want to insert the object and click.
Note:
You can change the position of the interpolation point after inserting it,
by either dragging and dropping it or using the Properties context menu.

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

109

Menus
5.7 Cam menu - CamTool
Function
Target Device Parameters

Meaning/information
Use this function to edit the target device parameters.

Representation parameters
Display Scaling

Use this function to show or hide the scaled cam profile. Specify the
scaling via Cam > Target Device Parameters.
Note:
While the scaled cam profile is displayed, you will not be able to edit the
original curve in the S diagram (path diagram).

Master

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the master
axis.

Slave

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the slave
axis.

V diagram

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the V

diagram (velocity diagram).

A diagram

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the A

diagram (acceleration diagram).

J diagram

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the J

diagram (jerk diagram).

Lines and fonts

Use this function to specify the representation parameters for the lines
and fonts in the diagrams.

Simulation Settings

Use this function to specify the simulation settings for the master axis
and the slave axis.

Diagrams
Velocity

Use this function to show or hide the V diagram (velocity diagram).

Acceleration

Use this function to show or hide the A diagram (acceleration diagram).

Jerk

Use this function to show or hide the J diagram (jerk diagram).

Download cam

Use this function to download all the active cam's data (geometry data,
scaling and offset values, etc.) to the target device.

Upload cam

Use this function to upload all the active cam's data (geometry data,
scaling and offset values, etc.) from the target device to CamTool.

110

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Index
A
Arc sine curve
Changing definition range, 77
Changing position, 75
Deleting, 78
Inserting, 74
Auxiliary line
Deleting a horizontal auxiliary line, 48

C
Cam
Cam segments, 52, 84
Changing the acceleration of a fixed point, 57
Changing the definition range of a sine curve, 71
Changing the definition range of an arc sine
curve, 77
Changing the position of a fixed point, 55
Changing the position of a sine curve, 69
Changing the position of a straight line, 63
Changing the position of an arc sine curve, 75
Changing the position of an interpolation point, 81
Changing the velocity along a straight line, 64
Changing the velocity of a fixed point, 56
Creating, 52, 83
Deleting a fixed point, 58
Deleting a horizontal auxiliary line, 48
Deleting a sine curve, 72
Deleting a straight line, 65
Deleting an arc sine curve, 78
Deleting an interpolation point, 82
Displaying a horizontal auxiliary line, 46
Download to SIMOTION device, 49
Editing an imported cam, 30
Editing an uploaded cam, 33
Editing with SIMOTION CamEdit, 101
Exporting as a text file, 102
Importing from a text file, 28
Inserting, 22
Inserting a fixed point, 54
Inserting a sine curve, 68
Inserting a straight line, 61
Inserting an arc sine curve, 74
Inserting an interpolation point, 80
Interpolation curves, 52, 84

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Optimizing a transition, 85
Optimizing with handles, 86
Printing, 103
Saving, 34
Uploading from a SIMOTION device, 31
Specifying simulation settings, 97
Specifying target device parameters, 91
Structure, 52
Changing acceleration
Position of a fixed point, 57
Changing definition range
Arc sine curve, 77
Sine curve, 71
Changing position
Arc sine curve, 75
Fixed point, 55
Interpolation point, 81
Sine curve, 69
Straight line, 63
Changing representation parameters
Axis, 37
Diagram, 40
Lines and fonts, 45
Changing velocity
Along a straight line, 64
At the position of a fixed point, 56
Creating
Cam, 52, 83

D
Definition
Straight line, 60
Deleting
Arc sine curve, 78
Fixed point, 58
Horizontal auxiliary line, 48
Interpolation point, 82
Sine curve, 72
Straight line, 65
Diagram
Changing representation parameters, 40
Changing representation parameters for axes, 37
Changing representation parameters for lines and
fonts, 45
Displaying a horizontal auxiliary line, 46
Representation, 35
Representation parameters, 35

111

Index

Showing/hiding, 36
Zoom tool, 19
Display
Maximizing working area, 20
Showing/hiding a diagram, 36

P
Printing
Cam, 103

R
E
Editing
CamEdit cam with CamTool, 24
CamTool cam with CamEdit, 101
Exporting
Cam as a text file, 102

F
Fixed point
Changing position, 55
Changing the acceleration at the position of a fixed
point, 57
Changing the velocity at a position, 56
Definition, 53
Inserting in a cam, 54
Function bar
Using the function bar to adapt a display, 18

H
Hand tool
Moving a diagram area, 19
Horizontal auxiliary line
Displaying in a diagram, 46
Moving a positioning window, 48

I
Importing
Cam from a text file, 28
Editing an imported cam, 30
Inserting
Cam, 22
Installing
SIMOTION CamTool, 14
Interpolation point
Changing position, 81
Deleting, 82
Inserting, 80

References, 4

S
Saving
Cam, 34
SIMOTION CamEdit
Editing a cam created with CamTool, 101
SIMOTION CamTool
Basic functions, 11
Editing a cam created in CamEdit, 24
Installing, 14
Uninstalling, 15
SIMOTION device
Download cam, 49
Uploading a cam, 31
Sine curve
Changing position, 69
Deleting, 72
Inserting, 68
Specifying simulation settings, 97
Straight line
Changing position, 63
Changing velocity, 64
Definition, 60
Deleting, 65
Inserting, 61
System requirements, 13

T
Target device
Specifying target device parameters, 91
Text file
Importing a cam, 28
Transition
Optimizing, 85
Optimizing with handles, 86

U
Uninstalling
SIMOTION CamTool, 15

112

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

Index

Z
Zoom
Enlarging a section, 19
In all directions simultaneously, 19
Resetting the previous zoom setting, 19
Restoring normal view, 19
Zoom function on the coordinate axis, 19
Zoom function on the diagram area, 19
Zoom tool
Hand tool via SHIFT key, 19
Zoom in all directions simultaneously, 19
Zoom in direction of coordinate axis, 19

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010

113

Index

114

CamTool
Configuration Manual, 11/2010