Toolpacks
A toolpack is a predefined group of tools assembled together and treated as a single
functional unit in production. Toolpacks are useful when multiple tools are always used
together, such as in multi-cavity molds or forming dies with interchangeable
inserts.
Each tool within a toolpack retains its identity and is tracked individually, but the toolpack structure allows them to be assembled and disassembled as a group. This simplifies setup, inspection, and tracking of complex tool configurations.
These are some of the advantages that toolpacks provide:
- Be assigned a unique identifier separate from individual tools
- Have their own state and location, independent of sub-tools
- Automatically inherit state transitions, such as Requires Inspection, to sub-tools
- Streamline maintenance and readiness checks for grouped tools
When a tool is loaded into or removed from a toolpack, its state may change automatically based on the system configuration. MES ensures that tool usage and maintenance remain traceable even when tools are used in combination.