Spraying tool properties

For robotic spraying applications, the atomized spray mist is modeled as a cone in Robotmaster. This spray cone is defined as a “tool” in Robotmaster.

Tool number

This is used by default in the TCP manager and should ideally match the tool number used in real life.

Tool name

A name for the tool, used for reference only. It does not affect the program. Use a short, unique name that makes it easy to identify the tool.

For example, Spray Paint 1 mm Nozzle.

Tool description

More descriptive text will be included alongside the tool name in some areas of Robotmaster.

For example, AirPro EFX Air Spray 1 mm Nozzle 200x100.

Spraying parameters

Nozzle diameter

Diameter of the top of the spray cone, at the nozzle opening.

Open

Distance to part

The distance from the nozzle tip at the end of the tooling to the path on the workpiece. This should represent the optimal spraying distance.

Open

For spraying applications, this distance can be thought of as the tool length, where the TCP is placed at the bottom of the spray cone.

X and Y pattern value

X and Y pattern value settings define the shape and size of the bottom of the spray cone. This would be the pattern of the deposited spray material at the specified Distance to part.

Set X and Y to the same value for a circular shape.

Set X and Y to different values to create an elliptical bottom shape. This can be used to model a fan-shaped spray pattern.

The X and Y pattern values for the cone/tool will align with the TCP axes. This is visible in the Device viewport.

Keep this in mind for applications that require a specific spray cone orientation relative to the tool path on the workpiece, such as with fan-shaped painting patterns.

Max effective distance

This sets how far the spray can reach and still effectively cover the workpiece. The Max effective distance must be larger than the distance to part.

If a spraying operation path results in the spray tool exceeding the Max effective distance, in the spray simulation, spray material will not be deposited on the workpiece in that area. This can help to visualize the limits of spray deposition.

Spray rate

The deposition rate of spray material on the surface in mm/min. A rate of 1 means that the thickness of deposited material would go from 0 to 1 mm in one minute when the tool is stationary.

Spraying simulation

Spray color

Select a color for spraying. This color will be used in the Task area and in the Device area when simulating spraying in coverage mode.

Accumulation target value

This value represents the targeted value for the spray thickness when in accumulation mode.

Accumulation target value is used as the midpoint in the accumulation level meter.

Preview

The Preview shows a representation of the spray cone. You can left-click and drag to inspect the spray cone.