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24/7 Access to
Special Applications Drawings
by
Andy Spence-Parsons
Manager, Marketing
Research
Mate Precision
Tooling
Knowing the precise centerline
of a tool, relative to the perimeter, is critical to successful
programming of a punch press. Regular geometric shapes like
rounds and squares are easy because the process is largely
automated with today's modern CAD/CAM software packages. However,
this process becomes far more complex with irregular or special
shapes. Until now, the fabricator has been required to accurately
draw the special shape into the CAD software, taking care to
ensure the centerline position is identical to the tool supplied.
Failure to draw the tool accurately can result in scrapped
parts.
To eliminate this problem, Mate has launched a web-based
portal, which allows registered users to access drawings
of special shapes and special assemblies they have previously
ordered from Mate. The drawings can be downloaded and imported
in the users CAD software, thereby eliminating the possibility
of interpretation error. The process is simple and the system
is free to use.
The user accesses the system by logging onto http://my.mate.com from any internet enabled PC, with their user name and password.
First-time users register by completing a short form, which
subsequently generates an e-mail with their user name and
unique password.
 Login Screen
Once logged in, the user is presented with
options to search their files for drawings of special shapes
and special assemblies previously ordered. Since access to
the system is via authenticated user name and password,
confidentiality is maintained. The
system is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
All special shape tools and special
assemblies from Mate are marked with a unique "etch" number.
This number, together with the users account number, uniquely
identifies the specific tool. The etch number also serves
as a file name which allows quick and accurate access to
drawings relevant to the tool.
Drawings of special shapes can be downloaded in DXF format,
which can be imported directly into most punch press CAD/CAM
software. This eliminates the need to redraw the shape, and
assures programming accuracy.
Search
for Special Shapes
Special Shape records can be searched
by using the etch number which is marked on every special
shape punch, stripper and die. Alternatively the user
can view a complete list of their files stored in either
PDF format or DXF format.
Once located the file can either be
viewed on the screen or downloaded to the users computer
in PDF or DXF format, ready for import into the punch
press machine tool library.
Search for Special Assemblies
Similar to special shapes, the records
can be searched by etch number or by a complete list
of files in PDF format. In addition, drawings for cluster
tools can be downloaded in DXF format.
The drawing files for special assemblies
contain general assembly layouts, together with detailed
drawings of all of the components, which make up an
assembly. Access to the assembly drawings is particularly
helpful when ordering additional, fully interchangeable,
replacement components.
Instant Access Maintains Your
Competitive Edge
Having instant access to your special
shape and special assembly drawings, on-line, helps
you keep the edge on your competition. And it is free.
To sign up to the my.mate service, log onto http://my.mate.com.
Alternatively, call 800-328-4492, fax 800-541-0285
or e-mail marketing@mate.com.
For more information,
please
contact:
Mate Precision Tooling
1295 Lund Boulevard
Anoka, MN 55303
Phone: 800-328-4492
Phone: 763-421-0230
Fax: 800-541-0285
Fax: 763-421-0285
www.matept.com
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710
Remington Road 
Volume
13 Issue 2 -
December 2003