Glossary · CNC and machine tools
Tool coordinate system
Also known as: Tool frame, TCS
German: Werkzeugkoordinatensystem
In robotics and CNC machining, the tool coordinate system is the coordinate system attached to the tool, with its origin usually at the tool center point, that describes the tool's position and orientation.
- CNC
In one sentence
The tool coordinate system is attached to the tool, usually with its origin at the tool center point, and moves with the tool.
Example
When jogging a robot in the tool coordinate system, the operator moves the welding torch along its own axis toward the seam.
How it applies
- Programming: Robots and multi-axis CNC controls let programmers and operators move in the tool coordinate system, for example to approach a surface along the tool axis regardless of the tool's current orientation.
- Commissioning: The tool coordinate system is defined by the tool data (offsets and orientation relative to the flange or spindle). Errors in these data shift every programmed movement.
- Operation: Jogging in the tool coordinate system is intuitive for approach movements, but the direction of motion in the room changes with the tool orientation. Operators must check the active coordinate system before jogging.
- Documentation: Manuals should explain the available coordinate systems with a figure that shows their axes and origins, and state which one is active by default after power-on or after an operating mode change.
Tool vs. workpiece coordinate system
The tool coordinate system moves with the tool. The Workpiece coordinate system is fixed to the part.