Connecting 3DCreator Digitizers

 

RevWorks is completely compatible with the 3DCreator series of non-tethered digitizers. Before connecting a 3DCreator digitizer, the device components must be properly connected and the camera array secured for use. For specific instructions on how to properly connect device components, mount your 3DCretor device, and attach probes, refer to your 3DCreator hardware documentation.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

In order to achieve the best performance from your 3DCreator device, the following requirements must be considered:

• Sensor Array Stability: It is important that the 3DCreator camera sensor array be safely and securely mounted on a stable support (either in a fixed position or so its position may be adjusted). If a mobile or movable support is used, a Dynamic Reference Frame should be placed within the work envelope or on the object to be measured.

• Measurement Volume: All three sensors of the 3DCreator camera sensor array must have an unobstructed view of the measurement volume. The 3DCreator working volume and accuracy depend on the size of the sensor array and the distance to the object being digitized. The nominal digitizing volume for the standard 580 mm sensor array is a one meter sphere centered 1.5 meters in front of the middle sensor.

• Sunlight: Avoid operating 3DCreator devices in direct sunlight to prevent measurement errors which may result from excessive levels of background infrared light or bright reflections off shiny objects. While 3DCreator devices are tolerant of low levels of indirect sunlight, operation in a location without sunlight of any kind is optimal.

• Other Light Sources: Avoid operating 3DCreator devices with other sources of infrared light directly in the line of sight of the camera sensor array (such as incandescent light bulbs, heat lamps, intrusion alarms, remote controls, etc). Normal levels of incandescent, or fluorescent room lighting, is okay.

First-Time Connection of 3DCreator Digitizers

3DCreator digitizers do not require the installation of any additional software before first use, but configuration files specific to your device must be copied to the RevWorks installation directory. See the configuration notes for specific instructions.

To Connect a 3DCreator Digitizer

1. Mount your 3DCreator camera unit digitizer to the work surface, tripod, or other support structure.

2. Confirm that the power switch on the back of the interface controller is in the off position.

3. Connect the separate AC power cord to the interface controller external power supply.

4. Connect the external power supply to the interface controller. The connector is a circular 5-pin connector that looks very similar to a typical mouse or keyboard connector. Position the external power supply away from the interface controller and outside of the working volume.

5. Connect the AC power cord to a properly grounded AC power supply. (This makes sure that the equipment is properly grounded before making any other connections.)

6. Connect the 3DCreator interface controller to the camera sensor array with the supplied sensor cable. This cable is grey with a circular 12 pin connector on one end and a DB-26 pin connector on the other. The circular 12 pin end connects to the camera sensor array. Align the red dot of the connector with the red dot of the receptacle when making the connection. The DB-26 pin connects to the matching receptacle on the back of the interface controller box.

7. Connect the interface controller to your host computer using the supplied null-modem serial cable. Both ends of the cable are identical DB-9 connectors and so it does not matter which end is used to connect to either device.

Note: If using a USB-to-serial converter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper installation and setup of the converter. 3DCreator devices do generally support USB converters, but are not guaranteed to support all such converters.

8. If you have a tethered probe you wish to use, connect it to one of the circular 10-pin ports on the front of the 3DCreator interface controller.

9. If you have a tethered Dynamic Reference Frame (DRF) you wish to use, connect it to one of the remaining circular 10-pin ports on the front of the 3DCreator interface controller.

10. If you have an auxiliary switch you wish to use, connect it to one of the remaining circular 10-pin ports on the front of the 3DCreator interface controller.

11. If you are using a non-tethered stylus, first assemble its charger unit by connecting the provided external power supply to the stylus cradle.

12. Connect the provided AC power cord to the external power supply.

13. Connect the AC power cord to a properly grounded AC power supply. Position the external power supply away from the interface controller and outside of the working volume.

14. Connect the provided probe tip to the 3DCreator stylus body.

Note: Each unique probe tip used with a 3DCreator stylus requires it own Probe Manager entry to describe the length of the probe shaft and the size of the tip ball.

15. Confirm that the stylus power switch is in the off position.

Note: The stylus power switch is located on the same end of the stylus as the probe. It is a small black toggle stitch. For all but some early units, the stitch is positioned towards the probe to turn the stylus on. When turned on, the green power light shines briefly if there is any charge left in the battery.

16. Place the 3DCreator non-tethered stylus in the stylus cradle.

Your 3DCreator serial digitizer is now ready to cofigure.

	Note: It may be necessary to allow the non-tethered stylus to charge for several hours before first use. Consult the manufacturer’s documentation for specifics about charge times and other conditions for the use and care of non-tethered stylus.
	Note: Make sure that when in its cradle the stylus is resting securely against the back of the cradle. This assures that good connection is made between the changing contacts. If the stylus is leaning forward, it may not charge properly. If necessary, place something under the front of the cradle so that the stylus falls back into the secure position.