Introduction
Nib Assist is a built-in feature of the DCT that helps you design dies to standard Udico nib heights. It works in real time alongside your design, showing whether the current geometry fits within a standard nib and identifying the minimum nib size required.
The Nib Assist panel is located on the right side of the interface. Click the Hide ▶ button at the top of the panel to collapse it and give more room to the canvas; click Show to expand it again.
Nib Height Gauge
The gauge at the top of the panel compares Current nib height to Min Required at a glance. When the current height bar extends past the Min Req marker, your design fits a standard nib. If it falls short, adjust your parameters until it clears.
Nib Information
- Min Nib — the smallest standard Udico nib that accommodates the current design (e.g., R11, R12H)
- Nib Height — overall height of the calculated nib
- Min Nib Ht — minimum allowable nib height for the design
- Max Hole — maximum hole diameter for the selected nib
- Nib OD — outer diameter of the nib
- Area Reduction — percentage area reduction for the current incoming/finish sizes
If your finish size exceeds the maximum hole for a nib, Nib Assist automatically recommends the next standard nib that accommodates it — no separate warning toggle is needed.
Incoming Shape
Select the cross-sectional shape of the incoming wire: Round, Hex, or Square. This affects how contact area and nib calculations are performed.
The available choices depend on the active nib shape:
- Round nib — Round incoming only
- Hex nib — Round or Hex incoming
- Square nib — Square incoming only
- Rect / Special nibs — incoming shape selection is disabled (area reduction is not applicable)
Shapes that do not apply to the current nib shape appear dimmed and cannot be selected.
Calculated Dimensions
The Calculated Dimensions section shows the computed zone lengths for the current parameter set:
- Nib Ht — calculated nib height
- Bearing — bearing zone length
- Blend Ht — blend zone height
- Approach Ht — approach zone height
- Stock Ht — stock height
- OD — outer diameter
All values update in real time as you adjust parameters. Use them to verify your design meets the requirements for your target nib before finalizing.
