Mastering the DELEM DA-69S Product Drawing Tool: A Comprehensive Operational Guide
Table of Contents
1. An Overview of DELEM DA-69S Product Drawing
2. Grasping Basic Product Attribute Configuration
3. Adding Annotations and Attached Documents
4. Crafting 2D Product Drawings
5. Mastering Line and Bend Property Settings
5.1 Line Properties
5.2 Bend Properties
6. Bend Labels (Exclusive to DA-6xTe Series)
7. Marking Surfaces or Bend Lines
8. Indicating the Foil Side
9. Leveraging Advanced Measurement Functions
10. Managing Variable Product Dimensions
10.1 Variable Line Properties
11. Editing 3D Drawings
11.1 Overview of 3D Drawing Editing
11.2 Editing and Rotating Product Models
11.3 Detailed 3D Drawing Editing Operations
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
13. Conclusion
Whether you’re a novice in the metal fabrication industry or a seasoned professional, mastering the DELEM DA-69S product drawing tool is a game-changer for elevating your production efficiency and design precision. This guide will walk you through every core function and operational technique of the DELEM DA-69S product drawing system, from basic product attribute setup to advanced 3D model editing. By the end, you’ll have a thorough grasp of how to harness this powerful tool to its full potential in all your metalworking projects.
1. An Overview of DELEM DA-69S Product Drawing
The foundation of proficiently using the DELEM DA-69S product drawing tool lies in understanding how to configure and modify basic product attributes, which directly impacts the efficiency and accuracy of subsequent drawing work.
To edit an existing product drawing, simply locate the target product in the Product Library and click the Drawing button. For creating a new product drawing, select New Product, and the system will automatically display the basic product attribute configuration interface—this is the starting point for all drawing work, and all attribute settings should be completed before initiating the actual drawing process.
2. Grasping Basic Product Attribute Configuration
The basic product attribute interface contains all the core parameters for product drawing, and each setting needs to be precise and tailored to the actual production requirements:
• Product ID and Description: Input a unique Product ID and a descriptive text, with a maximum of 25 characters for each. Ensure the ID is one-of-a-kind unless you intend to overwrite an existing product file.
• Thickness: Set the exact thickness of the sheet metal used for the product.
• Material Selection: Choose the appropriate material type from four pre-programmed options in the system to match actual production materials.
• Bending Length: Define the bending length of the product in the Z-direction, a key parameter for bending process design.
• Dimension Reference: Select between outer (A) or inner (B) dimensions as the default reference for new sides or surfaces via the Default Dimensions option.
• Radius Setting: The product bending radius is influenced by the selected tools; you can choose either use calculated (system auto-calculation) or use programmed (custom preset) for this parameter.
• Bend Allowance: Two options are available—use calculated (applying the DELEM exclusive formula) or use programmed (custom preset values), which affects the accuracy of the bending process.
To modify the active file directory for product drawings, select Save as and then Change directory; the system will automatically copy the current product file to the newly selected directory for easy file management.
3. Adding Annotations and Attached Documents
Adding detailed annotations and relevant documents to product drawings ensures clear communication of design requirements and convenient reference for subsequent production and inspection:
1. Editing Annotations: Click the Edit Notes button, and a new editing window will pop up, with the remaining available character count displayed on the on-screen keyboard for real-time reference during text input.
2. Attaching PDF Files: Tap Attach PDF, browse the file directory to select the target PDF document, and the system will automatically attach it to the current product file.
3. Auto-Display for PDF-Only Attachments: If only a PDF file is attached without any text annotations, the PDF will automatically open and display when the Notes indicator is pressed in Auto mode, streamlining the reference process.
4. Crafting 2D Product Drawings
After completing the basic product attribute configuration, the system will load the 2D drawing interface, where the top row displays key information such as Product ID, product description, and dimension reference (inner/outer). Creating a precise 2D product drawing follows these intuitive steps, designed for efficiency and accuracy:
1. Profile Sketching: Use the touch screen to manually sketch the product’s basic profile with your fingers. This intuitive sketch mode lets you quickly lay out the product’s overall shape without precise dimension input at this stage.
2. Dimension Calibration: After sketching the basic profile, input the actual product dimensions using the on-screen keyboard to replace the sketch’s rough dimensions.
3. Angle and Length Input: Directly enter the bending angle of each bend and the corresponding side length via the keyboard, and confirm each input with the Enter button to ensure parameter accuracy.
4. Attribute Adjustment: Modify overall product data at any time through the Product Properties button, and fine-tune individual angles or lines using the Properties button—active elements on the interface will be highlighted for easy identification and modification.
5. Advanced Programming: In graphical mode, the system supports designing products with up to 99 bends. Once the 2D drawing is completed, proceed to the Tool Setup and Bend Sequence steps to complete the pre-production programming process.
This step-by-step process ensures that 2D product design on the DELEM DA-69S is both precise and efficient, effectively solving common design and operation challenges for users.
5. Mastering Line and Bend Property Settings
Precise control over line and bend properties is the core of creating accurate product drawings, directly determining the feasibility and precision of the subsequent bending production process.
5.1 Line Properties
Line properties can be modified and optimized at any time to match design requirements, with the system providing flexible adjustment tools:
1. Modifying Basic Specifications: Hover the cursor over the target product line and select Properties to open the parameter editing window and adjust the line’s core specifications.
2. Projection Setting: In the line property window, set horizontal and vertical projections to create diagonal lines without manually calculating precise lengths—this is a time-saving feature for complex profile design. The system uses L (normal length), V (vertical projected length), and H (horizontal projected length) for accurate line length adjustment and will issue a prompt if the set projection parameters are not feasible.
3. Precision Parameter Selection: Three precision options are available to match different production requirements:
￮ Normal: Standard accuracy, suitable for general production scenarios.
￮ High: Maximizes calculation precision for the bend sequence, ideal for high-precision product production.
￮ Closing Dimensions: Ensures all line interval tolerances meet design standards, for products with strict dimensional requirements.
Note: Line intervals marked with an open circle should be placed directly between the back stop and the die center whenever possible for optimal production results.
Key Notes: Setting line intervals with High precision or Closing Dimensions may increase production calculation time. If the front extend ratio is set to comply if possible, the precision parameter will take priority in the system’s calculation logic.
Quick Line and Bend Editing: Based on cursor position, you can easily insert or delete bends and lines:
• Delete an end line: Place the cursor on an end line to delete the entire line segment.
• Insert a bend: Position the cursor on a non-end line segment to insert a new bend, with the system automatically replicating the side length of the original segment.
• Delete a bend: Place the cursor on the angle mark of a bend to remove that specific bend.
5.2 Bend Properties
Bend property settings are tailored to different bending process requirements, and the DELEM DA-69S supports a variety of bending types to solve common production challenges and ensure bending precision. Below is the detailed setup method for each core bending type:
1. Air Bend Setup: First, graphically program the product outline by inputting line lengths, angle values, and subsequent line lengths until the desired shape is achieved. Select Properties to set the bend type to Air Bend, then define the target angle and preferred radius. This is the basic bend type setup and is essential for configuring standard and custom bend properties.
2. Bumping Method for Large Radii: If a large-radius punch is not available, select Bumping as the bend type. Define key parameters including central angle, target radius, and number of segments, then program these settings sequentially. The system will achieve a seamless large radius through multiple successive slight bends, a practical solution for limited tooling conditions.
3. Hem Bend Definition: For hem bends, first set a prebend angle. Move the cursor to the end of the target flange, select Properties, and input the prebend angle and hem opening values—these parameters are critical for the system to accurately calculate beam positioning during production.
4. Two-Stage Bending: For greater control over the bending process and to reduce collision risks, program a bend with prebend properties. This two-stage process splits the bend into a prebend and a final bend, with the system calculating the optimal sequence for both stages to ensure precision and safety.
5. Temporary Bend Insertion: Insert temporary bends to avoid collisions during the bending process, with the following key features:
￮ The temporary bend can be unfolded back to a flat side after production planning is completed.
￮ Use the insert bend function to add temporary bends (including prebend settings) to the bend sequence.
￮ The system fully incorporates temporary bends into bend sequence
calculations to ensure the accuracy of collision avoidance and process design.
6. Bend Labels (Exclusive to DA-6xTe Series)
Bend labels are a practical feature for tracking and managing each bend in production, and the DELEM DA-69S (DA-6xTe) offers flexible and intuitive label usage, streamlining the bend sequence management process:
1. Multi-Mode Access: Bend labels are available not only in Bend Sequence mode but also in the graphical visualization of Drawing and Auto modes, allowing operators to track bends across the entire design and production planning process.
2. Automatic Alphabetical Labeling: Once activated, the system automatically assigns a unique alphabetical identifier to each bend line, enabling operators to quickly identify specific bends and simplify bend sequence adjustment and product production operations.
3. One-Click Activation: Simply tap the bend label view button on the DELEM DA-69S interface to enable bend labels, with small labels automatically appearing at each bend line for clear visual guidance.
7. Marking Surfaces or Bend Lines
Marking key surfaces or bend lines on product drawings enhances the identification of critical design elements, and the DELEM DA-69S provides a simple and flexible marker tool with the following operational steps:
1. Set Marker: Select the target position on the product drawing where the marker is needed, and a cylindrical label will automatically appear at that location; the marker can be repositioned at any time by dragging.
2. Auto-Display in Auto Mode: Markers are automatically visible in Automatic mode, ensuring operators can quickly identify key positions during production planning.
3. Flip Marker Colors: Swap the top and bottom colors of the marker to suit different visual needs and drawing background settings.
4. Remove Marker: Easily delete the marker with a single click to clean up the drawing interface when it is no longer needed.
This marker tool effectively solves the problem of identifying critical design elements, ensuring clarity and accuracy in product design and production communication.
8. Indicating the Foil Side
Highlighting the foil side on product drawings prevents misplacement of the unfolded sheet metal during production, a key detail for ensuring production accuracy. The operational steps for foil side indication are simple and intuitive:
1. Apply Foil Indication: Use the apply foil function to add a foil side mark, with the system automatically changing the color of one side of the product to clearly distinguish the foil side.
2. Flip Foil Side: If the initial foil side mark is not in the desired position, use the flip foil function to swap the top and bottom of the marked foil side for precise positioning.
3. Remove Foil Indication: Use the remove foil function to clear the foil side mark at any time to adjust the drawing as needed.
This feature effectively resolves common product visualization issues and ensures the correct positioning of the sheet metal during the unfolding and bending processes.
9. Leveraging Advanced Measurement Functions
The DELEM DA-69S is equipped with powerful advanced measurement functions in its graphical drawing interface, enabling precise measurement of developed lengths in multiple directions—these functions are critical for verifying design dimensions and optimizing the production process. Here’s how to use them effectively:
1. Measure Developed Lengths: Navigate to the graphical drawing interface, and use the measurement function to select two opposing lines in the same direction; the system will automatically calculate the developed length and display a dimension line on the drawing for clear visual reference.
2. Incorporate Calculated Bend Allowance: For higher measurement accuracy, the system allows the incorporation of auto-calculated bend allowance into length measurements. Note: This feature is only available after tool selection and bend sequence completion—ensure these prerequisites are met to use this function.
3. Use the Change Length Function:
￮ Activate measurement mode to access the change length function, which allows for precise adjustment of horizontal or vertical cumulative lengths.
￮ In measurement mode, segment selection buttons will appear next to each line segment; select the segment where length adjustment is needed.
￮ Tap the active dimension line to choose between horizontal or vertical projection, then input the desired adjustment value for precise length modification.
Each step of the advanced measurement functions is designed to solve specific user measurement challenges, eliminating uncertainty in the dimension verification process and improving the accuracy and efficiency of product design.
10. Managing Variable Product Dimensions
The DELEM DA-69S supports flexible adjustment of variable product dimensions, allowing for on-the-fly stretching or shrinking of specific line segments to adapt to different production and design requirements. Below is a streamlined guide to managing variable dimensions and configuring variable line properties:
Core Operational Steps
1. Program Variable Lines: Modify product dimensions by adding variable lines, which enable stretching or shrinking at the designated line position. Adjust the reference side length to generate an offset, which the system will apply to all intersected line segments.
2. Real-Time Adjustment in Auto Mode: In Automatic mode, input changes to the variable line length directly during production planning; the system will automatically adjust all intersected sides via the named variable(s), ensuring seamless and consistent dimension updates.
3. Verification Before Production: After closing the Variables dialog in Auto mode, verify the product model for potential collisions; if no issues are found, the program is ready for production.
4. Insert and Adjust Variable Lines: Tap Make Variable to insert a variable line based on existing side lengths or measured dimensions. Manipulate the line’s position to apply stretching/shrinking to specific segments, with the system using color and symbol visual indicators to guide the adjustment process.
5. Handle Inactive Variables: Deleting the reference side of a variable line will render the line inactive, which the system marks in red in Auto mode. Note: Ensure all intersecting segments remain perpendicular for the effective use of variable lines.
6. 2D/3D View Compatibility: Add variable lines in both 2D and Unfolded views for 2D products; for 3D products, variable lines can only be added in the Unfolded view.
10.1 Variable Line Properties
After inserting a variable line, select the line and tap Properties to open the parameter configuration window. The key attributes of a variable line are as follows:
• Name: Assign a unique custom name to the variable line for easy identification and management.
• Length: Define the reference side length of the variable line, the base value for subsequent stretching/shrinking.
• Use in Auto Mode: Select Yes or No to specify whether the variable line is adjustable in Automatic mode.
• Minimum/Maximum Length: Set the upper and lower limits for the variable line’s length to prevent invalid adjustments during production planning in Auto mode.
Mastering variable dimension management allows you to quickly adapt to changing design and production requirements, effectively solving client-specific customization challenges and optimizing the use of the DELEM DA-69S tool.
11. Editing 3D Drawings
The DELEM DA-69S simplifies the creation and editing of 3D product drawings by converting 2D profiles into 3D models, with a full set of editing tools to modify surfaces, angles, and lengths. The system supports switching between 2D, 3D, and 3D Unfolded views, with command icons on the interface for one-click view switching:
• 2D View: Displays the product as a 2D profile (the original design view).
• 3D View: Renders the product as a 3D solid model, with surface depth derived from the initially programmed bending length.
• 3D Unfolded View: Displays the 3D product as a flat sheet metal blank (the pre-bending state), critical for production and material cutting.
11.1 Overview of 3D Drawing Editing
A 3D product drawing is created by converting a 2D profile, and the system uses distinct visual cues to simplify editing: the active surface is highlighted in a unique color, and the cursor marking the selected bend is displayed in red. Basic 3D editing operations include:
1. Modify the drawing by adding/removing surfaces and adjusting side/angle properties, with additional surface-specific property functions available directly in the 3D drawing interface.
2. Switch between Selection and Add Surface modes for different editing needs:
￮ Selection mode: Tap the arrow button to select and modify existing bend lines and surfaces.
￮ Add Surface mode: Tap the product + symbol to add new surfaces to the open sides of the existing 3D model.
3. Add Surfaces Precisely: Place the cursor on the free side of an existing surface, tap the target position near the bend line, and the system will stretch the new surface to that position. Adjust the angle and height for precision, with the system defaulting to 45-degree snap increments for quick adjustment; fine-tune to exact values via the keyboard as needed.
4. Precision Adjustments: Modify angles and side lengths by either typing exact values via the keyboard or dragging the cursor (the cursor snaps to 5-degree increments when on a product’s end line). Surfaces are rectangular by default and can be modified to match custom design shapes.
Tap the View button at any time to switch between 2D, 3D, and 3D Unfolded views for comprehensive design verification.
11.2 Editing and Rotating Product Models
Adding a new surface to the free edge of a 3D product model is a basic 3D editing operation, with the following step-by-step process:
1. Select a Free Edge: Tap the free edge of the 3D product where the new surface needs to be added.
2. Activate Add Surface Mode: Switch to the Add Surface mode via the corresponding button on the interface.
3. Set the Surface Endpoint: Define the endpoint of the new surface, then input the exact angle and surface length via the on-screen keyboard for precise positioning (critical for matching design requirements).
Useful Navigation Functions (available for all 3D editing operations):
• Fit to view: Automatically scales the 3D product model to fit the entire screen for a comprehensive view.
• Reset view: Restores the model’s view (rotation and zoom) to the system default, ideal for reorienting the model after complex rotations/zooms.
11.3 Detailed 3D Drawing Editing Operations
The DELEM DA-69S’s 3D drawing tool excels at managing complex product designs with multiple surfaces (all starting from a base surface), providing robust editing capabilities for adding, deleting, and reshaping surfaces (squares, rectangles, and other quadrangles). Below are the detailed operational guidelines to solve specific design challenges:
1. Add Surface: Connect new surfaces to the free sides of existing surfaces by tapping endpoints or inputting exact angles and lengths to create new rectangular surfaces. A key feature: each surface can include outlines (e.g., holes) without using an additional drawing tool for insertion.
2. Delete Surface: A surface can only be deleted if it is connected to just one other surface and is not the base surface (the core surface of the 3D model)—this prevents accidental deletion of critical model structures.
3. Change Side Length: Select the target side to view its current length; a pop-up window will appear for adjustment. Choose to modify the length from both ends or a single end, and input positive/negative values to stretch or shrink the side.
Practical Example of Side Length Adjustment (existing side length = 100mm):
• Even adjustment: Highlight the entire side and input 60mm—the system shrinks the side equally from both ends, maintaining design symmetry.
• Left side only adjustment: Use the Next Part feature to select only the left portion of the side and input 60mm—only the left end is shrunk, solving asymmetrical design needs.
• Right side only adjustment: Use Next Part to select the right portion and input 60mm—only the right end is shrunk, for targeted design tweaks.
• Alternative: Inputting -40mm achieves the same length reduction (60mm final length) by extending the side in the opposite direction, demonstrating the system’s flexible adjustment options.
Rules for Changing Side Lengths (to avoid model errors):
• A bend line’s length can be modified only if the change does not affect other surfaces or bends in the 3D model.
• No adjustments can be made if both ends of a side are part of a bend line and aligned with the bend line’s direction.
Side Adjustment Feasibility Examples:
• Example 1: Side 1 (both ends free) → extend/shrink in both directions; Sides 2 & 4 (one end connected to a bend line) → only the free end can be adjusted; Side 3 (both ends free) → extend/shrink in both directions.
• Example 2: Sides 1 & 3 (one end connected to a bend line) → only the free end can be adjusted; Side 2 (both ends connected to bend lines) → no adjustment allowed; Sides 4,5,6 (both ends free) → extend/shrink in both directions.
Creating Special Shapes (e.g., Hexagon): Start with two rectangles at a 180° angle, then use either non-symmetric shortening (shorten each side to 75mm) or symmetric shortening (shorten each side to 50mm) to form a perfect hexagon. The system supports creating a variety of custom special shapes by simply adjusting side lengths.
Key 3D Editing Tip: Position the cursor at the corner of the surface when setting a new length for precision. Even for 3D products with one-direction bends, basic size adjustments are easy—especially right after converting a 2D profile to a 3D model. Use the change length dialog with the profile depth and surface length function keys to modify the overall product size quickly.
4. Change Angle: Freely adjust the angle between connected surfaces within the range of -180° to 180°. Observe the model’s changes at a relative scale during adjustment to avoid collisions between surfaces, a critical step for complex 3D model design.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I import existing designs into the DELEM DA-69S Product Drawing system?
A: Yes. The system supports importing design files in compatible formats. For the full list of supported file types and detailed import steps, refer to the official DELEM DA-69S user manual and follow the configuration process in the system settings.
Q2: What should I do if I encounter errors while using the DELEM DA-69S Product Drawing module?
A: First, ensure the machine’s software is updated to the latest version. For common errors, refer to the Troubleshooting section of the DELEM DA-69S user manual for solutions. If the issue persists and cannot be resolved, contact the official customer support team for professional assistance.
Q3: Is training available for using the DELEM DA-69S Product Drawing features?
A: Yes. Specialized training sessions and tutorial resources are available for the DELEM DA-69S Product Drawing tool. You can consult your equipment provider for in-person or online training resources, or access official online guides and video tutorials for self-paced learning.
These answers address the most common user questions, helping to resolve operational doubts and improve overall efficiency when using the tool.
13. Conclusion
Mastering the DELEM DA-69S Product Drawing tool boils down to three core steps: understanding its full range of features, proficiently navigating its intuitive interface, and applying the operational techniques outlined in this guide to optimize your metal fabrication production processes. By honing these skills, you will not only boost your design and production efficiency but also ensure unparalleled precision in every metalworking project you undertake.
As your next step, we encourage you to explore the official DELEM resource library for more in-depth technical insights and advanced operational tips. If you require personalized support or have specific technical questions, our expert team is always available to assist you. For more comprehensive guidance on the DELEM DA-69S and other related tools, refer to our official documentation or get in touch with our support team directly.
Your successful integration and utilization of the DELEM DA-69S technology is our top priority, and we are committed to providing the resources and support you need to excel in your metal fabrication work.
