Terms and Definitions

batch

multiple tightening using the same tightening program and socket

batch sequence

sequence

multiple tightening using a combination of different tightening programs and sockets

controller feature

License for controller-wide features, such as Soft PLC and synchronized tightening.

Are assigned to an entire controller and can be used by all virtual stations.

event

controller and tool status signals

final angle

actual measured angle value at the end of the tightening cycle

final torque

actual measured torque value at the end of the tightening cycle

GUI

user interface made up of interactive graphical elements such as windows, icons and symbols on a display

HMI

Human Machine Interface

user interface to tool or controller

The HMI can be a computer web-based interface or controller touch screen.

IAM

Intelligent Application Module

removable module in controller containing program, configuration parameters and tightening results

line structure

sorting and grouping controllers in structures, folders or sub-folders in ToolsTalk

The line structure is a method for improving the visibility of a large group of controllers in a structured manner.

post view torque

function for monitoring and detecting torque maximum and minimum values before rundown is complete

One purpose of post view torque is the use of a self-locking nut.

tightening program

Parameter set

configuration of parameters and values to control and monitor a single tightening action, and to store the tightening result

push

transfer of data saved in ToolsTalk to the controller memory

QIF

Quality Integrated Fastening

fully integrated line of nutrunners, controllers, accessories and process monitoring tools to guarantee high quality and traceability of tightening in industrial assembly systems

QIF was developed at Atlas Copco and is preferably used in motor vehicle industry and other assembly situations where many joints are critical. The QIF concept also includes process monitoring and documentation.

QIF accessory

accessory for operator communication and guidance used in QIF

Accessory products used for communication between system and operator. For example: scanner, operator panel, stacklight and socket selector. The communication provides improved quality and traceability in the assembly process.

Re-hit detection

detection of re-tightening of an already tightened joint

rotate

tightening strategy which rotates the tool head.

Rotate is mainly used for test or demonstration purposes.

rundown complete

end of the rundown step, when the screw head is in contact with the surface and the tightening step begins

rundown step

step when a bolt enters the thread until the bolt head touches the surface

snug

screw or bolt is approximately finger-tight to the surface

socket selector

QIF accessory, consisting of a socket tray with lamps, that can be used to guide an operator to the correct socket

soft start

start tightening at slow speed during a specified rotation angle

The function helps the bolt to enter the thread in a well controlled way and may prevent unwanted ergonomic tool movement when the trigger is pressed.

stacklight

QIF accessory, which handles the communication between operator and controller through digital signals like lamps, buttons, switches and buzzer

target

desired result of a tightening

The target is expressed in torque or angle.

target angle

desired angle value at the end of the tightening cycle, measured from a reference point

target torque

desired torque value at the end of the tightening cycle

tightening step

step from when a bolt head has reached the surface until the tightening has reached the desired target torque or target angle

tightening strategy

algorithm which continuously controls and monitors the tightening process

The user can select a strategy optimized for the joint and program certain parameters.

virtual station

virtual controller

software abstraction of a physical controller to behave like multiple controllers

A controller can have only one cable tool connected to it, but several wireless tools. Each tool is connected to its own virtual station.

virtual station type

License containing a bundle of controller features.

This license is required for running a virtual station.

virtual station feature

License for individual features.

Can be used to complement Virtual station type licenses.