Attachment Points in IronCAD
What are Attachment Points?
Attachment Points in IronCAD are used to automatically connect and align parts while dragging from the catalog. They provide fast and accurate positioning of components within 3D assemblies without manual adjustments.
Benefit: Less manual work, higher accuracy and consistent models that meet corporate standards.
Using Attachment Points in Practice
While dragging parts from the IronCAD catalog, matching attachment points are automatically recognized, instantly positioning and orienting parts correctly. This allows you to assemble complete designs quickly and error-free.
Automatic positioning of bolts, nuts and screws
Assembly of profiles, plates and tubes
Placement of components such as handles or hinges
Use of fixed mounting positions according to company standard
Coupling Types: Neutral, Male and Female
IronCAD uses three coupling types, called Pairing Types, to determine how attachment points are joined together.
- Neutral (N): links points with the same name to each other
- Male (M): pairs with Female
- Female (F): pairs with Male
The most commonly used setting is Neutral, which allows easy pairing of standard parts.
When specific pairings are needed, such as a bolt (Male) into a nut (Female), use the matching Pairing Types for controlled assembly.
Structure and direction of an Attachment Point
An attachment point consists of three axes:
– X axis (red)
– Y axis (green)
– Z axis (blue)
When coupling:
– The Z axes of the two points are opposite each other
– The X axes point in the same direction
Proper orientation is essential for correct placement. The TriBall allows you to rotate or move the mounting points to adjust direction and position.
Tips for optimal use of Attachment Points
- Give attachment points clear names such as Base_Front or Bracket_Top
- Use Male/Female couplings on parts that require a firm fit
- Always check the axis direction with the TriBall before coupling
- Save parts with properly set attachment points in the catalog to save time for future use
Conclusion
Attachment Points in IronCAD make it easy to position and pair parts automatically. With the proper use of Pairing Types and the TriBall, you work faster, more accurately and more consistently. This increases the efficiency of your design process and prevents errors in your assemblies.