About Component Specifications

When you design a Structured Component, a Tool template or a Tool, you often insert a Component. The insertion of such a Component is based on the relation between the Hook and the Component Specification.

When you add a Component to a Tool, its Hook is mapped relatively to the Tool Component Specification. It is automatically fixed in the chosen relative position by a mechanical connection.

A Component Specification is basically an axis system with some additional properties and behavior. It can be:

• Created in the Tool during preparation time, to specify that a Component needs to be inserted at this place.
• Created in the Tool during design, when a Component is inserted (for productivity shortcut).
• Created in a Component to prepare the insertion of other related Components (for example screws).
• Created in any 3D Part or product (with representation).
• Can be used to position one or several Components (for example insertion of Components on patterns). It is possible to insert several Components relatively to a given one (for example you can insert four screws on a plate). Therefore, a Component can be endowed with as many Component Specifications as required.

When creating Component Specifications:

• You define the expected type of Component (such as Cap Screw, Bushing, or Any) accepted by this Component Specification.
• Component Specifications are represented by an axis system and an icon representing the expected type.
  Note: An invalid axis system (not orthogonal direct) is indicated in red.
• In all subsequent actions, Component Specifications carry information that you can display according to the options specified in Smart Mechanical Components: General. In particular, if you place the cursor over a Component Specification, the name of the expected component and the status of the Component Specification (for example Free, Populated with 1 component, Component Specification is left-handed) are displayed.