What Is a Fixture?
A fixture is generally an auxiliary tool used to improve work efficiency in the process of processing and manufacturing.
A fixture is used to hold a workpiece to be machined or to guide a cutting tool, such as a drill or end mill, into position when machining.
A fixture is called a jig when it is used to more precisely and efficiently manufacture or measure relatively anything that assists in adapting the workpiece to be machined or the part to be machined.
Types of Fixtures
There are three main types of fixtures:
- Those for Efficient Production of Parts
These include paint making fixtures and fixtures for specifically fixing. - Those Used During Product Assembly
Caulking fixtures, ultrasonic welding fixtures, etc. - Inspection Fixtures and Measurement Fixtures Used for Inspection
Special fixtures are sometimes made when a surface plate cannot be applied for dimensional measurement from a measurement standard.
Examples of Fixtures
Two examples commonly used to improve production efficiency are:
- In product assembly, for example, when fixing a small switch with double-sided adhesive tape to a semi-finished product by bonding, the jig is used to guide the switch so that it is bonded at a fixed vertical and horizontal position on a flat surface.
- When semi-liquid adhesives are used for bonding, a spring mechanism like a clothespin is used to apply a certain amount of pressure to the bonding surface for a while.