Interaction with machine joints

To interact with the joints of the machine, you can use the Interact Panel, located in the top-right corner of the Shopfloor Assistant interface.

This panel allows manual control of all machine axes — including standard joints (X, Y, Z, A, B) and custom axes (e.g., rotary tables or external axes) — enabling reachability testing, forward kinematics checks, and collision detection without executing NC code.

As you manipulate the joints, the 3D Viewer updates in real time, providing immediate visual feedback on tool orientation, part accessibility, fixture interactions, and potential collisions.

📘 How to Use the Interact Panel

• Step 1: Open the Interact Panel – the button is located in the top-right corner of the user interface.

• Step 2: Select a joint – choose from standard axes (X, Y, Z, A, B) or any custom axes defined in the project.

• Step 3: Move the joint – use the sliders or input values to adjust the position of the selected joint. The machine in the 3D Viewer will update in real time.
• Step 4: Observe machine behavior – check for reachability, tool orientation, fixture interaction, and potential collisions as you move each joint.

🎯 Operator insights

• The Interact Panel is intended for setup validation and manual inspection, not for NC program editing or simulation.
• Combine with the 3D Viewer to get a complete visual understanding of machine movements and constraints.