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=Fit and Show=
__NOTOC__
Vector error graphical analysis is used to access and manipulate survey data; it also displays survey information such as flange thicknesses and the types of devices used.
<!-- ===================== HEADER ===================== -->
<div style="margin:0 0 15px 0; padding:18px 22px; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.35); border-left:5px solid #3366cc; border-radius:6px; background:rgba(51,102,204,0.06);">
<div style="font-size:170%; font-weight:bold; margin-bottom:4px;">Analysis Visual Report Information and Controls</div>
<div style="margin-bottom:8px;">Managing context parameters, best-fit calculations, zero translation, transform tools, and visual controls in automet® FAB.</div>
<div style="font-size:90%;">[[Main Page|← Main Page]] &nbsp;·&nbsp; [[Automet® FAB - General Survey Concept|← Data Analysis]]</div>
</div>


* The '''fit''' check box allows you to include spool elements in the fit. Unchecking this box removes that item from the mathematical best-fit analysis, but does not remove the values from the report.
== Flange Context Details and Configuration Controls ==
* '''Show''' for circle fits reveals or hides the circle fit values on the report.


<gallery mode ="packed" heights = 600 px>
The sidebar menu displays detailed context metrics and adjustment settings for each component selected in the visual report.
File:Fit Show Flange2.png
</gallery>


<gallery mode ="packed" heights = 400 px>
<div style="text-align:center; margin:16px auto 24px auto;">
File:Flange Settings1.png
[[File:flange context details 2.png|center|360px]]
</gallery>
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Flange context details and configuration panel</div>
</div>


=Zero a Flange=
=== Bolted up ===
automet® FAB automatically assigns the '''Bolted up''' condition when the calculated distance between the diameter-point plane ('''D''') and the stop point ('''S''') matches a two-flange joint thickness. Operators can manually uncheck this setting if a single heavy flange is misidentified.


You can isolate a gross error using the fit and zero options within the automet analysis section.
=== Diameter, stop, and workpoint indicators ===
* '''D (Diameter plane) and S (Stop point):''' Circled interface markers indicating physical point locations recorded during field capture.
* '''Tie-in and design spool:''' Refers to the nominal pipe spool design loaded at project start.
* '''Gap and thickness overrides:''' Field-measured flange thicknesses and gasket gap values can be typed directly into the input fields, overriding default database values.


See the video on this topic here:
=== Ignore length ===
<imagemap>
Enabling '''Ignore length''' removes the axial length vector from best-fit mathematical constraints:
File:AF1.png|300px|Click the image to watch the video.
* '''Open pipe ends:''' By default, open pipe ends are set to ignore length, allowing for excess material without distorting overall spool alignment.
desc none
* '''Custom configuration:''' Any flange can be configured to ignore length, or open pipe ends configured to enforce length, depending on site requirements.
rect 0 0 1920 1080 [https://youtu.be/V6BY8gX_uIk]
</imagemap>


=== Fit preference ===
The '''Fit preference''' slider controls the mathematical weighting applied during best-fit routines:
* '''Position:''' Prioritises reducing vector location errors (black arrows).
* '''Alignment:''' Prioritises reducing flange face angular touchpoint errors (gold values).
* '''Reset to defaults:''' Pressing '''Reset to defaults''' restores original parameters without risk of data corruption. Refer to [[Automet® FAB - Fit Preference Slider Analysis|fit preference slider analysis]] for further details.


By default, automet will average out the error on all flanges and give you the best-fit option. All surveyed data points have been fitted to the design using a method known as least-squares averaging. Importantly, '''this method masks gross errors'''. We can use the option to drop a flange from the fit to show us where gross errors are located.
=== Individual bolt hole observations ===
The lower table lists recorded bolt hole observations for the selected flange:
* '''Pitch and radius errors:''' Displays angular pitch error (degrees) and radial distance variance relative to nominal pitch circle diameter (PCD) dimensions.
* '''Excluding bad observations:''' Unchecking the '''Fit''' box for an individual bolt hole removes an outlier measurement from PCD calculations without deleting raw survey data.
* '''Pipe end radius:''' When evaluating open pipe ends, radial errors represent individual diameter observations.


<gallery mode = "packed" heights =500 px>
=== Touchpoint at OD ===
File:AF1.png
By default, face gap calculations display clearance at the flange raised face. Selecting '''Touchpoint at OD''' projects gap dimensions to the outer diameter of the flange.
</gallery>


=== Vector and touchpoint display scale ===
The visual scale of vector error arrows and touchpoint leader lines can be resized independently for each flange or pipe end to clean up visual report graphics.


First, we zero flange one by selecting the zero-option box at flange one. Press the apply selections button to see the change in the visual report.
== Fit and Show Control Options ==


The zero option does not change the report's orientation - the coordinates are translated; shifted along the grid lines, to match the design co-ordinates at flange one.
The primary controls panel manages component inclusion across the best-fit algorithm and graphical display layers:


You can now see that flange one has zero vector errors.
* '''Fit checkbox:''' Controls whether a flange, hub, or pipe end is included in the mathematical best-fit alignment. Unchecking an item excludes it from alignment calculations while retaining its measured variance values in report tables.
* '''Show checkbox:''' Toggles the visibility of specific elements (such as circle-fit centerlines) on visual reports.


<gallery mode = "packed" heights =400 px>
<div style="text-align:center; margin:16px auto 24px auto;">
File:AF2.png
[[File:Fit Show Flange2.png|center|250px]]
File:AF3.png
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Fit and show checkboxes in the primary analysis panel</div>
</gallery>
</div>


This pipe-spool report contains some gross errors. You can see this at the touch points on both flanges - there are also large vector errors at flange two.
== Zeroing a Flange to Isolate Gross Errors ==


<gallery mode = "packed" heights =500 px>
By default, automet® FAB uses a least-squares averaging algorithm that distributes measurement variance across all flanges. While optimal for compliant spools, this averaging method can mask localized fabrication errors.
File:AF5.png
</gallery>


=Dropping a Flange From the Fit=
Selecting the '''Zero''' checkbox on a specific flange anchors the coordinate origin directly to that component, transferring all relative variance onto remaining spools.
For this example, the zero option at flange one has been unchecked, as it will have no effect on the outcome of the next action. We uncheck the fit at flange two.


We call this 'dropping a flange from the fit'.
<div style="background-color: #f8f9fa; border: 1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.3); border-left: 5px solid #3366cc; padding: 16px; margin: 16px 0; border-radius: 6px; display: flex; align-items: flex-start; gap: 14px;">
<div style="font-size: 22px; line-height: 1.2;">🎬</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; gap: 10px; align-items: flex-start;">
<div>'''Video tutorial:''' Demonstrates zeroing a flange and dropping components from the fit to isolate gross fabrication errors: <span style="color: #666; font-size: 90%;">(2:14 mins)</span></div>
<span class="plainlinks">[https://youtu.be/V6BY8gX_uIk <span class="mw-ui-button mw-ui-progressive" style="margin: 0; padding: 6px 12px; font-weight: bold; color: white !important; text-decoration: none !important;">▶ Watch video</span>]</span>
</div>
</div>


<div style="text-align:center; margin:16px auto 24px auto;">
[[File:AF1.png|center|650px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Default least-squares fit averaging error across all components</div>
</div>


Dropping a flange from the fit has a significant impact and the report now looks very different. Only flange one's surveyed data points have been fitted to the design.
Selecting '''Zero''' at Flange 01 translates coordinates along grid lines to align design and survey origins precisely at Flange 01:


Because there are only two flanges, flange one can be zero in all aspects, including position, orientation, and alignment. Even though flange two was not included in the fit, its position, orientation, and alignment are still displayed.
<div style="display:flex; flex-wrap:wrap; gap:16px; margin:16px auto 24px auto; justify-content:center; align-items:stretch;">


Here is a pipe spool with more than two flanges.
<div style="flex:1 1 320px; text-align:center;">
[[File:AF2.png|center|450px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Zero option selected for Flange 01</div>
</div>


<gallery mode = "packed" heights =500 px>
<div style="flex:1 1 320px; text-align:center;">
File:AF6.png
[[File:AF3.png|center|450px]]
</gallery>
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Report translated to zero vector error at Flange 01</div>
</div>


=Fit Preference=
</div>
For a tack-weld survey, the user may wish to change the priority to flange centre-line alignment at the expense of position. With this option, the spool is orientated so that the flange faces are aligned, as opposed to flanges in the best position. The control is a slider, so varying degrees of alignment versus position can be selected.


Fit: The fit check box excludes flanges and circle fit centres from the analysis.
Translating the origin reveals gross fabrication errors located elsewhere on the spool, such as excessive vector displacement or face gaps at secondary flanges:


=Ignore Length=
<div style="text-align:center; margin:16px auto 24px auto;">
Ignore length: When a pipe spool has pipe ends (i.e. open ends of pipe with no flanges), the default is to ignore the length. The length error is not considered and does not affect the best fit. This option allows for pipe over length. If this is not the case, then the pipe over-length would corrupt the report, so by default, pipe lengths are ignored. The surveyor can change default conditions at any time. The application has a reset-to-defaults button to quickly return to the default condition.
[[File:AF5.png|center|650px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Isolating severe angular and vector error at Flange 02</div>
</div>


=Align to the Grid=
== Dropping a Flange From the Fit ==
To see how to align parts of the spool to the grid, have a look at this video: [https://youtu.be/htBRhwdpzY8| Aligning to the grid in analysis transform].


=Rotate=
Unchecking the '''Fit''' checkbox for a specific component removes its data points from the mathematical fit.
You can rotate the spool around its components in the X, Y and Z axes to see how the survey results might look better over the design requirements: [https://youtu.be/csy13yclGL0| Rotate your survey results]


=Translate=
When surveying a two-flange spool, dropping Flange 02 forces the alignment model entirely onto Flange 01. Flange 01 displays zero position, orientation, and face error, while Flange 02 displays the true unadjusted error relative to Flange 01.
You can also translate (nudge) the whole spool in 6 axis directions (east/west, north/south, up/down) to see how the survey results might look better over the design requirements: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhPrYXEIBpk| Translate your survey results]


==Analysis Tools==
On multi-flange spools (three or more connections), dropping a single flange fits the remaining components via least-squares averaging, isolating specific branch fabrication errors (such as an incorrect pipe leg length):
Vector error graphical analysis is used to access and manipulate survey data; it also displays survey information such as flange thicknesses and the types of devices used.


* The '''fit''' check box allows you to include spool elements in the fit. Unchecking this box removes that item from the mathematical best-fit analysis, but does not remove the values from the report.
<div style="text-align:center; margin:16px auto 24px auto;">
* The '''zero''' check box forces the flange to zero the error at this element. The default is no flange zeroed and all flanges show the best fit. 
[[File:AF6.png|center|650px]]
* '''Show''' for circle fits reveals or hides the circle fit values on the report.
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Multi-flange spool analysis with Flange 02 dropped from best-fit</div>
</div>


<gallery mode ="packed" heights = 400 px>
== Manual Spool Alignment Tools (Transform) ==
File:KB 234.png|Flange 01
File:KB 235.png|Flange 02
File:KB 236.png|Flange 03
</gallery>


{| class="wikitable" style="margin:auto"
Operators can manually rotate, translate, or align survey data relative to design coordinates using the '''Transform''' toolset:
|-
! Flange 01 !! Flange 02 !! Flange 03
|-
| Surveyed using type 1 device. || Surveyed using type 7 device. On the back face of flange (indicated by the D).|| Surveyed using type 7 device. On the front face of flange.
|-
| Length is being considered. Fit preference is position.|| Length is being considered. Fit preference is position.|| Length is being considered. Fit preference is position.
|-
| No offset when using type 1.|| Offset when on back is the full flange thickness including the raised face beacuse D points taken on the back of the flange.|| Offset when on front is the raised face only.
|-
| || The initial value for thickness is our database value which can be changed at any time but is retained for future reference.|| The initial value for thickness is our database value which can be changed at any time.
|}


==Drawing Controls==
=== Aligning to grid axes ===
There are a variety of controls within the vector error graphical report. See the images to view a full list of all the available controls.
Aligns designated workpoints or circle-fit centerlines along primary coordinate axes (X, Y, Z).


<gallery mode = "packed" heights= 300 px>
{| style="background-color:#f8f9fa; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.3); border-left:5px solid #3366cc; border-radius:6px; padding:12px; margin:16px 0; width:100%;"
File: KB 250a.png| Controls
| style="font-size:22px; vertical-align:top; width:30px;" | 🎬
File: KB 250b.png| Further controls
| style="vertical-align:top;" | '''Video tutorial:''' Aligning survey workpoints and circle fits to grid axes: <span style="color:#666; font-size:90%;">(3:35 mins)</span><br><br><span class="plainlinks">[https://youtu.be/htBRhwdpzY8 <span class="mw-ui-button mw-ui-progressive" style="margin:0; padding:6px 12px; font-weight:bold; color:white !important; text-decoration:none !important;">▶ Watch video</span>]</span>
</gallery>
|}


The controls allow you to improve the report layout and clarity. This is the report cleaned up and the tolerance set to 1.5mm. All values above 1.5mm are now shown in red.
=== Manual rotation ===
Rotates survey dataset geometry around a chosen origin point across X, Y, or Z axes in defined angular increments.


<gallery mode = "packed" heights= 300 px>
{| style="background-color:#f8f9fa; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.3); border-left:5px solid #3366cc; border-radius:6px; padding:12px; margin:16px 0; width:100%;"
File: KB 251.png| Tolerance exceeded (example)
| style="font-size:22px; vertical-align:top; width:30px;" | 🎬
</gallery>
| style="vertical-align:top;" | '''Video tutorial:''' Rotating survey datasets around selected component origins: <span style="color:#666; font-size:90%;">(2:11 mins)</span><br><br><span class="plainlinks">[https://youtu.be/csy13yclGL0 <span class="mw-ui-button mw-ui-progressive" style="margin:0; padding:6px 12px; font-weight:bold; color:white !important; text-decoration:none !important;">▶ Watch video</span>]</span>
|}


Below are examples of the P button when switched on. This function displays observation-point locations. This function shows which face was observed, the type of device used and the coverage of observations.  
=== Manual translation ===
Translates (nudges) the complete survey model along East/West, North/South, or Up/Down axes to balance position errors across open ends.


<gallery mode = "packed" heights= 200 px captions = "Type 7 survey positions">
{| style="background-color:#f8f9fa; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.3); border-left:5px solid #3366cc; border-radius:6px; padding:12px; margin:16px 0; width:100%;"
File: KB 252.png|
| style="font-size:22px; vertical-align:top; width:30px;" | 🎬
File: KB 252a.png|
| style="vertical-align:top;" | '''Video tutorial:''' Translating survey models along grid axes: <span style="color:#666; font-size:90%;">(2:11 mins)</span><br><br><span class="plainlinks">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhPrYXEIBpk <span class="mw-ui-button mw-ui-progressive" style="margin:0; padding:6px 12px; font-weight:bold; color:white !important; text-decoration:none !important;">▶ Watch video</span>]</span>
File: KB 254.png|
|}
</gallery>
 
[[File:analysis visual report details.png|1200px|automet® FAB - Analysis - Visual Report Details]]
 
 
 
 
 
 
==PDF Preview==
[[File:PDF Preview.png|700px|utomet® FAB - Analysis - Visual Report - PDF Preview]]
 
 
 
 
==Transform==
[[File:Transform Interface.png|800px|automet® FAB - Analysis - Visual Report - Transform]]
 
 
 
 
==Open Tie-In==
[[File:Open Tie-In Button.png|800px|automet® FAB - Analysis - Visual Report - Open Tie-In]]
 
 
 
 
==Controls for Iso View==
 
*[https://youtu.be/uRAoadBmtv0| '''Video''' - Controls for Iso View]
 
[[File:North Button.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - North]]
[[File:B button.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - B Button]]
[[File:P button.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - P Button]]
[[File:Toggle Shrink 2.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - Full Shrink]]
[[File:Toggle Shrink 1.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - Full Size]]
[[File:Free Rotate.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - Free or Turntable]]
 
==Flange Information and Controls==
[[File:flange context details 2.png|300px|thumb|automet® FAB - Analysis - Flange Context Details]]
 
===Flange X===
The flange number is at the top.
 
 
===Bolted up===
The software algorithm automatically sets the '''bolted-up''' condition. This is determined by calculating the distance between the '''diameter-point plane''' and the '''stop point'''.
 
If the flange is not bolted up, the user can override it.
 
 
===D-Diameter/S=Stop/X = Workpoint===
The circled '''D'''|'''diameter point plane''' and '''S'''|'''stop point''' indicate the location of these measured points on the flange(s).
 
The '''tie-In''' flange and the '''design spool''' refer to the pipe spool loaded at the start of the survey.
 
'''Gap''' and '''flange''' thicknesses can be updated to tape measured values; the database defaults are displayed initially.
 
 
===Ignore length===
This option '''ignores''' the vector in the direction of length. Open pipe ends are ignored by default; the user can override this setting.


The length vector is ignored and can be any value; this then does not affect the best fit, allowing for pipe over-length.
== Graphical Display Controls ==
If the override did not happen, the report would be corrupted due to the pipe being too long.
By default, the over-length amount is ignored.


Any flange can be configured to ignore length (if necessary), and any pipe open end can be configured not to ignore length.
The graphical controls panel offers options for adjusting visual density, labels, and tolerance color highlighting:


===Fit preference===
<div style="display:flex; flex-wrap:wrap; gap:16px; margin:16px auto 24px auto; justify-content:center; align-items:stretch;">
The '''fit preference''' slider controls the best-fit weighting for EACH flange/pipe end - the default is position.


<div style="flex:1 1 320px; text-align:center;">
[[File:Analysis controls2.png|center|700px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Primary graphical view controls</div>
</div>


===Individual observations box===
<div style="flex:1 1 320px; text-align:center;">
This area displays and allows for the deselection of individual observations.
[[File:KB 250b.png|center|700px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Secondary display sliders and scale options</div>
</div>


For your selected flange, you can see the '''pitch''' and '''radius''' errors shown for each bolt-hole measurement.
</div>


When checking '''pipe ends''', the '''radius''' errors are diameter points.
* '''Tolerance thresholding:''' Setting a specific tolerance (e.g. 1.5 mm) highlights all vector variances exceeding that value in red text on the report.


<div style="text-align:center; margin:16px auto 24px auto;">
[[File:KB 251.png|center|500px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Out-of-tolerance vector errors highlighted in red text</div>
</div>


===Touchpoint===
* '''Point display mode (P button):''' Activating the **P** button displays individual observation point locations, revealing targeted flange faces, survey adapter device types, and circumferential coverage spread.
The size of the gap opposite the touchpoint is normally displayed for the location at the flange '''raised face'''.  


If this option is selected, the size of the gap at the flange '''outside diameter''' will be displayed.
<div style="display:flex; flex-wrap:wrap; gap:16px; margin:16px auto 24px auto; justify-content:center; align-items:stretch;">


<div style="flex:1 1 200px; text-align:center;">
[[File:KB 252.png|center|500px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Targeted observation face</div>
</div>


===Pos/Face error===
<div style="flex:1 1 200px; text-align:center;">
These are for internal use - they can be ignored.
[[File:KB 252a.png|center|500px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Adapter device type indicator</div>
</div>


<div style="flex:1 1 200px; text-align:center;">
[[File:KB 254.png|center|500px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Circumferential point coverage</div>
</div>


===Arrow/Touchpoint size===
</div>
The size of the '''vector error arrow''' can be changed for an individual flange or pipe end.


The length of the '''touchpoint leader-line''' can be changed for an individual flange or pipe end.
<div style="text-align:center; margin:16px auto 24px auto;">
[[File:analysis visual report details.png|center|800px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Full analysis visual report layout with details enabled</div>
</div>


============================================================================================================
== PDF Preview, Transform, and Open Tie-In Interfaces ==
=Vector Error Graphical Analysis (Fit and Show)=
Vector error graphical analysis is used to access, manipulate and display survey data, including flange thicknesses and the types of devices used.


Fit: The fit check box includes or excludes specific flanges, spool elements and circle fit centres from the mathematical best-fit analysis. Unchecking this box removes the item from the calculation but retains its values on the report.
<div style="display:flex; flex-wrap:wrap; gap:16px; margin:16px auto 24px auto; justify-content:center; align-items:stretch;">


Show: For circle fits, this option reveals or hides the circle fit values on the report.
<div style="flex:1 1 240px; text-align:center;">
[[File:PDF Preview.png|center|500px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">PDF report export preview window</div>
</div>


=Zero a Flange=
<div style="flex:1 1 240px; text-align:center;">
Gross errors can be isolated using the fit and zero options within the automet analysis section.
[[File:Transform Interface.png|center|500px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Transform control setup panel</div>
</div>


By default, automet uses a method known as least-squares averaging to average out the error across all flanges and provide a best-fit option. All surveyed data points are fitted to the design. Crucially, this method masks gross errors. Dropping a flange from the fit or zeroing a flange reveals where gross errors are located.
<div style="flex:1 1 240px; text-align:center;">
[[File:Open Tie-In Button.png|center|500px]]
<div style="margin-top:6px; font-size:85%; font-weight:bold;">Open tie-in analysis interface button</div>
</div>


See the video on this topic here:
</div>


File:AF1.png|300px|Click the image to watch the video.
== Isometric View Navigation Controls ==
desc none
rect 0 0 1920 1080 [https://youtu.be/V6BY8gX_uIk]


Selecting the zero check box forces the software to zero the error at that specific element. The default condition is to have no flanges zeroed so that all flanges display the best fit.
{| style="background-color:#f8f9fa; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.3); border-left:5px solid #3366cc; border-radius:6px; padding:12px; margin:16px 0; width:100%;"
 
| style="font-size:22px; vertical-align:top; width:30px;" | 🎬
When you select the zero-option box at flange one and press the apply selections button:
| style="vertical-align:top;" | '''Video tutorial:''' Navigating, rotating, panning, and adjusting element scaling in isometric view: <span style="color:#666; font-size:90%;">(2:41 mins)</span><br><br><span class="plainlinks">[https://youtu.be/uRAoadBmtv0 <span class="mw-ui-button mw-ui-progressive" style="margin:0; padding:6px 12px; font-weight:bold; color:white !important; text-decoration:none !important;">▶ Watch video</span>]</span>
 
The report orientation does not change.
 
The coordinates are translated (shifted along the grid lines) to match the design coordinates at flange one.
 
Flange one will now display zero vector errors.
 
If a pipe-spool report contains gross errors, they will become visible at the touch points on the flanges, or as large vector errors at the remaining unzeroed flanges (such as flange two).
 
=Dropping a Flange From the Fit=
Unchecking the fit box for a specific flange is referred to as 'dropping a flange from the fit'.
 
When a flange is dropped, the mathematical analysis changes significantly. For example, if a spool has only two flanges and flange two is unchecked, only the surveyed data points of flange one are fitted to the design. This allows flange one to be zeroed in all aspects: position, orientation and alignment.
 
Even though the dropped flange (flange two) is excluded from the fit calculation, its resulting position, orientation and alignment values are still displayed on the report.
 
Here is a pipe spool with more than two flanges.
 
=Fit Preference=
The fit preference slider controls the best-fit weighting for each individual flange or pipe end. The default setting prioritises position.
 
For specific scenarios like a tack-weld survey, you can change the priority to flange centre-line alignment at the expense of position. This setting orientates the spool so that the flange faces are aligned, rather than forcing the flanges into the mathematically best position. Because this control is a slider, varying degrees of alignment versus position can be selected.
 
=Ignore Length=
When a pipe spool features open pipe ends ( pipe ends with no flanges), the default system condition is to ignore the length.
 
Purpose: This option allows for pipe over-length. If the over-length amount were included in the best-fit analysis, the extra length would corrupt the mathematical fit of the rest of the report.
 
Control: By default, length errors for open pipe ends are ignored and do not affect the best fit, meaning the length vector can be any value. However, the surveyor can change these default conditions at any time. Any flange can be configured to ignore length, and any open pipe end can be configured to include length.
 
Reset: A reset-to-defaults button is available to quickly return the application to its original settings.
 
=Analysis Tools and Device Settings=
The analysis toolset allows you to manage how different measurement devices and flange properties interact with the visual report.
 
{| class="wikitable" style="margin:auto"
|-
! Flange 01 !! Flange 02 !! Flange 03
|-
| Surveyed using type 1 device. || Surveyed using type 7 device on the back face of the flange (indicated by the D). || Surveyed using type 7 device on the front face of the flange.
|-
| Length is being considered. Fit preference is position. || Length is being considered. Fit preference is position. || Length is being considered. Fit preference is position.
|-
| No offset when using type 1. || Offset when on the back is the full flange thickness including the raised face because D points are taken on the back of the flange. || Offset when on the front is the raised face only.
|-
| The initial value for thickness is our database value, which can be changed at any time but is retained for future reference. || The initial value for thickness is our database value, which can be changed at any time but is retained for future reference. || The initial value for thickness is our database value, which can be changed at any time.
|}
|}


=Drawing Controls and Visual Report Details=
<table style="width:100%; border-collapse:separate; border-spacing:16px; margin:16px 0;">
The vector error graphical report includes a variety of drawing controls to improve layout clarity and readability.
  <tr>
 
    <td style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.25); border-radius:6px; padding:12px; text-align:center;">
By utilising these controls, the report can be cleaned up. For example, if the tolerance is set to 1.5mm, all values exceeding 1.5mm will automatically display in red.
      [[File:North Button.png|center|340px]]
 
      <div style="margin-top:8px; font-weight:bold; font-size:90%; color:#333;">North compass orientation button</div>
The P button toggles the display of individual observation-point locations. When switched on, it details which face was observed, the type of device used and the total coverage of the observations.
      <div style="font-size:80%; color:#666; margin-top:4px;">Aligns the visual view's North (+Y) direction to the top-left corner.</div>
 
    </td>
[[File:analysis visual report details.png|1200px|automet® FAB - Analysis - Visual Report Details]]
    <td style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.25); border-radius:6px; padding:12px; text-align:center;">
 
      [[File:B button.png|center|340px]]
=Transform, Alignment and Manipulation=
      <div style="margin-top:8px; font-weight:bold; font-size:90%; color:#333;">B button (back vector toggle)</div>
The interface allows you to manually manipulate the survey data against the design requirements using the following transform options:
      <div style="font-size:80%; color:#666; margin-top:4px;">Displays flange weld face vector errors and back vectors.</div>
 
    </td>
Align to the Grid: Aligns specific parts of the spool to the grid within the analysis transform interface. Video guide: [https://youtu.be/htBRhwdpzY8| Aligning to the grid in analysis transform].
    <td style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.25); border-radius:6px; padding:12px; text-align:center;">
 
      [[File:P button.png|center|340px]]
Rotate: Rotates the spool around its components in the X, Y and Z axes to optimise how the survey results sit over the design requirements. Video guide: [https://youtu.be/csy13yclGL0| Rotate your survey results].
      <div style="margin-top:8px; font-weight:bold; font-size:90%; color:#333;">P button (observed points toggle)</div>
 
      <div style="font-size:80%; color:#666; margin-top:4px;">Shows exact surveyed point locations of the prism ball.</div>
Translate: Nudges the entire spool in 6 axis directions (east/west, north/south, up/down) to find a better fit against the design specifications. Video guide: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhPrYXEIBpk| Translate your survey results].
    </td>
 
  </tr>
[[File:Transform Interface.png|800px|automet® FAB - Analysis - Visual Report - Transform]]
  <tr>
 
    <td style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.25); border-radius:6px; padding:12px; text-align:center;">
=Interface Navigation and Previews=
      [[File:Toggle Shrink 2.png|center|340px]]
The following components control the primary output and alternative visual modes:
      <div style="margin-top:8px; font-weight:bold; font-size:90%; color:#333;">Full shrink view toggle</div>
 
      <div style="font-size:80%; color:#666; margin-top:4px;">Compresses long pipe runs to emphasize flange orientation.</div>
===PDF Preview===
    </td>
[[File:PDF Preview.png|700px|utomet® FAB - Analysis - Visual Report - PDF Preview]]
    <td style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.25); border-radius:6px; padding:12px; text-align:center;">
 
      [[File:Toggle Shrink 1.png|center|340px]]
===Open Tie-In===
      <div style="margin-top:8px; font-size:80%; font-weight:bold; color:#333;">Full size view toggle</div>
[[File:Open Tie-In Button.png|800px|automet® FAB - Analysis - Visual Report - Open Tie-In]]
      <div style="font-size:80%; color:#666; margin-top:4px;">Restores true proportional pipe spool lengths in 3D view.</div>
 
    </td>
===Controls for Iso View===
    <td style="width:33%; vertical-align:top; background:#ffffff; border:1px solid rgba(128,128,128,0.25); border-radius:6px; padding:12px; text-align:center;">
Video guide: [https://youtu.be/uRAoadBmtv0| Video - Controls for Iso View]
      [[File:Free Rotate.png|center|340px]]
 
      <div style="margin-top:8px; font-weight:bold; font-size:90%; color:#333;">Free rotate vs turntable toggle</div>
[[File:North Button.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - North]]
      <div style="font-size:80%; color:#666; margin-top:4px;">Toggles between turntable axis rotation and free 3D rotation.</div>
[[File:B button.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - B Button]]
    </td>
[[File:P button.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - P Button]]
  </tr>
[[File:Toggle Shrink 2.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - Full Shrink]]
</table>
[[File:Toggle Shrink 1.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - Full Size]]
[[File:Free Rotate.png|200px|automet® FAB - Controls for Iso View - Free or Turntable]]
 
=Flange Information and Component Controls=
[[File:flange context details 2.png|300px|thumb|automet® FAB - Analysis - Flange Context Details]]
 
Flange X
The designated flange number is displayed at the top of the context panel.
 
Bolted up
The software algorithm automatically determines the bolted-up condition by calculating the distance between the diameter-point plane and the stop point. If the flange is not bolted up, the user can manually override this status.
 
D-Diameter / S-Stop / X-Workpoint
The circled D (diameter point plane) and S (stop point) icons indicate where these specific physical measurements were taken on the flange.
 
Tie-In Flange and Design Spool refer back to the baseline pipe spool loaded at the start of the survey session.
 
Gap and flange thicknesses default to database values initially but can be overwritten with manual tape-measured values at any time.
 
Individual observations box
This panel displays the mathematical errors for individual measurement points and allows you to deselect specific observations if required.
 
For flanges, it highlights the pitch and radius errors for each individual bolt-hole measurement.
 
For open pipe ends, the radius errors represent the diameter points.
 
Touchpoint
This option toggles the gap measurement location. By default, the size of the gap opposite the touchpoint is displayed at the flange raised face. If toggled, the report will display the gap size at the flange outside diameter instead.
 
Pos/Face error
These parameters are reserved for internal software calculations and can be safely ignored by the user.
 
Arrow/Touchpoint size
Vector error arrow: Adjusts the visual size of the error arrow for an individual flange or pipe end.
 
Touchpoint leader-line: Adjusts the length of the touchpoint leader-line graphical element for an individual flange or pipe end.

Latest revision as of 13:19, 9 October 2026

Analysis Visual Report Information and Controls
Managing context parameters, best-fit calculations, zero translation, transform tools, and visual controls in automet® FAB.

Flange Context Details and Configuration Controls

The sidebar menu displays detailed context metrics and adjustment settings for each component selected in the visual report.

Flange context details and configuration panel

Bolted up

automet® FAB automatically assigns the Bolted up condition when the calculated distance between the diameter-point plane (D) and the stop point (S) matches a two-flange joint thickness. Operators can manually uncheck this setting if a single heavy flange is misidentified.

Diameter, stop, and workpoint indicators

  • D (Diameter plane) and S (Stop point): Circled interface markers indicating physical point locations recorded during field capture.
  • Tie-in and design spool: Refers to the nominal pipe spool design loaded at project start.
  • Gap and thickness overrides: Field-measured flange thicknesses and gasket gap values can be typed directly into the input fields, overriding default database values.

Ignore length

Enabling Ignore length removes the axial length vector from best-fit mathematical constraints:

  • Open pipe ends: By default, open pipe ends are set to ignore length, allowing for excess material without distorting overall spool alignment.
  • Custom configuration: Any flange can be configured to ignore length, or open pipe ends configured to enforce length, depending on site requirements.

Fit preference

The Fit preference slider controls the mathematical weighting applied during best-fit routines:

  • Position: Prioritises reducing vector location errors (black arrows).
  • Alignment: Prioritises reducing flange face angular touchpoint errors (gold values).
  • Reset to defaults: Pressing Reset to defaults restores original parameters without risk of data corruption. Refer to fit preference slider analysis for further details.

Individual bolt hole observations

The lower table lists recorded bolt hole observations for the selected flange:

  • Pitch and radius errors: Displays angular pitch error (degrees) and radial distance variance relative to nominal pitch circle diameter (PCD) dimensions.
  • Excluding bad observations: Unchecking the Fit box for an individual bolt hole removes an outlier measurement from PCD calculations without deleting raw survey data.
  • Pipe end radius: When evaluating open pipe ends, radial errors represent individual diameter observations.

Touchpoint at OD

By default, face gap calculations display clearance at the flange raised face. Selecting Touchpoint at OD projects gap dimensions to the outer diameter of the flange.

Vector and touchpoint display scale

The visual scale of vector error arrows and touchpoint leader lines can be resized independently for each flange or pipe end to clean up visual report graphics.

Fit and Show Control Options

The primary controls panel manages component inclusion across the best-fit algorithm and graphical display layers:

  • Fit checkbox: Controls whether a flange, hub, or pipe end is included in the mathematical best-fit alignment. Unchecking an item excludes it from alignment calculations while retaining its measured variance values in report tables.
  • Show checkbox: Toggles the visibility of specific elements (such as circle-fit centerlines) on visual reports.
Fit and show checkboxes in the primary analysis panel

Zeroing a Flange to Isolate Gross Errors

By default, automet® FAB uses a least-squares averaging algorithm that distributes measurement variance across all flanges. While optimal for compliant spools, this averaging method can mask localized fabrication errors.

Selecting the Zero checkbox on a specific flange anchors the coordinate origin directly to that component, transferring all relative variance onto remaining spools.

🎬
Video tutorial: Demonstrates zeroing a flange and dropping components from the fit to isolate gross fabrication errors: (2:14 mins)

▶ Watch video

Default least-squares fit averaging error across all components

Selecting Zero at Flange 01 translates coordinates along grid lines to align design and survey origins precisely at Flange 01:

Zero option selected for Flange 01
Report translated to zero vector error at Flange 01

Translating the origin reveals gross fabrication errors located elsewhere on the spool, such as excessive vector displacement or face gaps at secondary flanges:

Isolating severe angular and vector error at Flange 02

Dropping a Flange From the Fit

Unchecking the Fit checkbox for a specific component removes its data points from the mathematical fit.

When surveying a two-flange spool, dropping Flange 02 forces the alignment model entirely onto Flange 01. Flange 01 displays zero position, orientation, and face error, while Flange 02 displays the true unadjusted error relative to Flange 01.

On multi-flange spools (three or more connections), dropping a single flange fits the remaining components via least-squares averaging, isolating specific branch fabrication errors (such as an incorrect pipe leg length):

Multi-flange spool analysis with Flange 02 dropped from best-fit

Manual Spool Alignment Tools (Transform)

Operators can manually rotate, translate, or align survey data relative to design coordinates using the Transform toolset:

Aligning to grid axes

Aligns designated workpoints or circle-fit centerlines along primary coordinate axes (X, Y, Z).

🎬 Video tutorial: Aligning survey workpoints and circle fits to grid axes: (3:35 mins)

▶ Watch video

Manual rotation

Rotates survey dataset geometry around a chosen origin point across X, Y, or Z axes in defined angular increments.

🎬 Video tutorial: Rotating survey datasets around selected component origins: (2:11 mins)

▶ Watch video

Manual translation

Translates (nudges) the complete survey model along East/West, North/South, or Up/Down axes to balance position errors across open ends.

🎬 Video tutorial: Translating survey models along grid axes: (2:11 mins)

▶ Watch video

Graphical Display Controls

The graphical controls panel offers options for adjusting visual density, labels, and tolerance color highlighting:

Primary graphical view controls
Secondary display sliders and scale options
  • Tolerance thresholding: Setting a specific tolerance (e.g. 1.5 mm) highlights all vector variances exceeding that value in red text on the report.
Out-of-tolerance vector errors highlighted in red text
  • Point display mode (P button): Activating the **P** button displays individual observation point locations, revealing targeted flange faces, survey adapter device types, and circumferential coverage spread.
Targeted observation face
Adapter device type indicator
Circumferential point coverage
Full analysis visual report layout with details enabled

PDF Preview, Transform, and Open Tie-In Interfaces

PDF report export preview window
Transform control setup panel
Open tie-in analysis interface button

Isometric View Navigation Controls

🎬 Video tutorial: Navigating, rotating, panning, and adjusting element scaling in isometric view: (2:41 mins)

▶ Watch video
North compass orientation button
Aligns the visual view's North (+Y) direction to the top-left corner.
B button (back vector toggle)
Displays flange weld face vector errors and back vectors.
P button (observed points toggle)
Shows exact surveyed point locations of the prism ball.
Full shrink view toggle
Compresses long pipe runs to emphasize flange orientation.
Full size view toggle
Restores true proportional pipe spool lengths in 3D view.
Free rotate vs turntable toggle
Toggles between turntable axis rotation and free 3D rotation.
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