Hardware - Joint Templates - Customer Guide

Overview

Joint Templates (also called Joint Fasteners) allow you to add drilling and routing operations to cabinet joints to accommodate various fastening systems. This powerful feature automates the placement of Confirmats, dowels, biscuits, pocket screws, and other connector systems throughout your cabinets.

What Are Joint Templates?

Joint Templates define the operations needed at cabinet joints for different fastening systems. Instead of manually adding holes or routes to each joint, you create a template once and Mozaik automatically applies it to all appropriate joints in your cabinets.

Common fasteners configured with Joint Templates:

• Confirmat screws
• Dowels
• Biscuits
• Pocket screws
• Fastenlink connectors
• Lamello P-System fasteners
• IF Peanut connectors
• Cabinet connector bolts
• Dado joints with fasteners

Accessing Joint Templates

Navigation:

1. Open your project in Mozaik
2. Go to Hardware Tab
3. Select Joint Fasteners section
4. The Joint Templates dialog will open

Joint Templates Interface Overview

Key Components:

1. Fastener Name

• Dropdown to select which fastener you're editing
• All configured fasteners appear in this list

2. Fastener Pricing

• Cost: Enter the cost per fastener
• Markup %: Apply a percentage markup
• Add-on: Add a fixed dollar amount markup

3. Fastener Type Choose the type of operation your fastener requires:

4. Applies To Specify which cabinet types and end types receive this fastener:

• ☑ Base Cabinets
• ☑ Wall Cabinets
• ☐ Finished Ends
• ☑ Unfinished Ends

Example: You wouldn't want a Confirmat pilot hole drilled through a finished end panel, so uncheck "Finished Ends."

5. Sidebar Tools Manage your fastener library:

• OK: Close and save changes
• Cancel: Close without saving
• Add: Create new fastener
• Delete: Remove selected fastener
• Rename: Change fastener name
• Save: Save without closing
• Save As: Save as new fastener

Setting Up Fastener Operations

Drill Holes Configuration

For fasteners that require drilled holes (Confirmats, dowels, etc.):

Female Side / Male Side Selection:

• Choose which part receives the operation
• Visual graphic shows male and female parts

Hole Options:

• Hole #1: First hole location
• Hole #2: Optional second hole (for systems requiring two holes)

Hole Parameters:

• Drill Diameter: Hole size (e.g., 0.1969" for 5mm)
• Drill Depth: How deep to drill (e.g., 0.315")
• Offset From Center: Shift hole position from joint centerline
• ☑ Male Ctr: Check to center female hole on male part
• Break Dado Dist: Creates break in dado at fastener location (enter distance)

Custom Image: Add a visual reference by placing a .jpg image in: C:\Mozaik\Data\Fasteners

Name the image file EXACTLY as your fastener is named.

Route Path Configuration

For fasteners requiring routes (biscuits, slots):

Route #1 and Route #2:

• Can add up to two route paths per fastener
• Define path length and depth for each

Route Parameters:

• Path Length: Length of the routed slot (e.g., 0.3937")
• Path Depth: Depth of the route (e.g., 0.5669")
• Offset: Adjust route position toward front (-) or back (+) of part
• Dist from Joint Edge: Distance from joint edge to route center
• ☑ Exit from Entry Point: Route path returns to starting point

Tool Selection:

• Select the cutter/bit used for routing
• Choose from tools defined in your tool library

Visual Examples:

• LockDowel systems use two route paths
• IF Peanut connectors can use routes that exit at entry point

Combo Configuration

Combines route path and hole:

• Route: Single route path with length and depth
• Hole: Single hole with diameter and depth
• Useful for fastening systems requiring both operations

Configuration:

• Set up route path parameters
• Set up hole parameters
• Both operations applied at same location

Fastenlink Configuration

For Fastenlink connector systems:

Fastenlink Toolpath Editor:

• Click "Fastenlink Toolpath Editor" to open
• Define complex toolpath parameters
• Set dimensions A through G
• Visual diagram shows toolpath profile

Parameters include:

• Initial plunge location
• Top of material reference
• Multi-point toolpath definition
• Precise dimensional control

☑ Male Ctr: Option to center on male part

Tool Selection:

• Choose Fastenlink cutter from dropdown
• Select "None" if not using tool library

Pocket Screw Configuration

For CNC pocket screws:

Tool Selection:

• Choose from available pocket screw bits (e.g., "3/8 Downshear")

Critical Parameters:

• Initial Plunge Distance from Edge: Starting point for toolpath
• Final Distance from Edge: Ending point at bottom of pocket
• Final Depth: Maximum depth of pocket

Visual Reference:

• Diagram shows tool path, plunge angle, and final position
• Helps visualize pocket screw angle and placement

Lamello P-System Configuration

For Lamello elliptical fasteners:

Lamello Toolpath Editor:

• Opens specialized editor for 3-axis elliptical toolpaths
• Designed specifically for Lamello P-System fasteners

Settings:

• Lamello P-System Cutter: Select appropriate cutter
• ☑ Male Ctr: Center operation on male part
• Complex elliptical path automatically generated

Technical specs:

• 52.5mm length × 50mm depth typical
• 14mm cutting depth
• Precise elliptical toolpath for proper fit

IF Peanut Configuration

For Intelligent Fixings Peanut connectors:

IF Peanut Toolpath Editor:

• Specialized editor for Peanut connector toolpaths
• Complex entry and exit path definition

Settings:

• IF Peanut Cutter: Select appropriate cutter
• ☑ Male Ctr: Center operation on male part

Toolpath details:

• Initial plunge of 12.2mm
• Cutter drops 2.1mm over 10mm
• Travels level for another 10mm
• Exit path remains level for entire 20mm return travel
• Specific to Intelligent Fixings specifications

Configuring Fastener Locations

This is where you define where fasteners appear on different joint types.

Joint Categories

Configure fastener locations for each joint category:

• Ends: End panel to side joints
• Partitions: Partition to side joints
• Dividers: Divider to top/bottom joints
• Backs: Back panel to side joints
• Frame: Face frame to cabinet joints

For Each Joint Type:

1. Select Joint Type Choose from dropdown (e.g., "End -> Top")

2. Fastener Location Settings

No Fastener Option: ☑ Check "No Fastener" to exclude fasteners from this joint type

Location Number:

• Location #1, Location #2, etc.
• ☑ Check "Don't Use" to skip this location

Distance Along Joint:

• Enter distance from reference point
• Use calculator icon for formula editor
• Measured from front edge of joint to back edge of operation

Joint Location: Choose reference point:

• From Front: Measure from front of cabinet
• From Rear: Measure from back of cabinet
• Center: Measure from center of joint

For Joint Lengths Greater Than:

• Enter a dimension (e.g., 24")
• Adds extra operation if joint exceeds this length
• Useful for longer joints requiring multiple fasteners

Move to Reverse:

• ☐ Move Male to Reverse: Flips male operations to opposite side
• ☐ Move Female to Reverse: Flips female operations to opposite side

Copy From Feature

Time-saving tip:

1. Set up one joint type completely
2. Click "Copy From..." button
3. Copies all location settings to current joint
4. Modify as needed for specific joint

Common Joint Template Examples

Example 1: Confirmat Screw Template

Fastener Type: Drill Holes
Configuration:

• Female Side: Pilot hole (0.1969" diameter, 0.315" depth)
• Male Side: Clearance hole (larger diameter, through-hole)
• Location: 1.5" from front, 1.5" from back
• For Joint Lengths Greater Than: 18" (adds center location)

Applies To:

• ☑ Base Cabinets
• ☑ Wall Cabinets
• ☐ Finished Ends (don't drill through finished ends)
• ☑ Unfinished Ends

Example 2: Dowel Template

Fastener Type: Drill Holes
Configuration:

• Female Side: Blind hole (0.315" diameter, 0.5" depth)
• Male Side: Blind hole (0.315" diameter, 0.5" depth)
• Two locations per joint: typically 2" and 4" spacing
• ☑ Male Ctr (center female hole on male part)

Applies To: All cabinet types

Example 3: Biscuit Template

Fastener Type: Route Path
Configuration:

• Route Path #1: 1.575" length, 0.394" depth
• Centered on joint
• Tool: Biscuit cutter (0.157" kerf)

Applies To: All cabinet types

Example 4: Pocket Screw Template

Fastener Type: Pocket Screw
Configuration:

• Tool: 3/8 Downshear
• Initial Plunge: 2.124" from edge
• Final Distance: 1/2" from edge
• Final Depth: 0.4375"
• Locations: 2" intervals along joint

Best Practices

💡 Test on Single Cabinet First - Create a test cabinet and verify operations before applying to entire job

💡 Use Descriptive Names - Name fasteners clearly: "Confirmat 5mm" instead of "Fastener1"

💡 Check Finished End Settings - Always verify "Applies To" settings to avoid drilling through visible surfaces

💡 Add Custom Images - Visual references help identify fasteners quickly in the library

💡 Use Formulas for Complex Spacing - Equation editor allows dynamic fastener placement based on joint dimensions

💡 Copy Settings Between Similar Joints - Use "Copy From..." to speed up configuration of similar joints

💡 Verify in Part Editor - After applying, check operations in Part Editor to ensure correct placement

💡 Consider Joint Length Thresholds - Use "For Joint Lengths Greater Than" to add fasteners on longer parts automatically

💡 Account for Material Thickness - Ensure drill depths don't exceed material thickness

💡 Break Dados at Fasteners - Use "Break Dado Dist" to create clearance at each fastener location

Troubleshooting

Problem: Fastener operations not showing on parts
✅ Check "Applies To" settings - cabinet type may be unchecked
✅ Verify joint category is configured (Ends, Partitions, etc.)
✅ Ensure "Don't Use" is not checked for location
✅ Check that fastener is assigned in product parameters

Problem: Holes drilling through finished ends
✅ Uncheck "Finished Ends" in "Applies To" section
✅ Verify end panel is marked as finished in cabinet design

Problem: Operations in wrong location
✅ Check "Distance Along Joint" measurement
✅ Verify "From Front" vs "From Rear" setting
✅ Review "Move Male to Reverse" / "Move Female to Reverse" settings
✅ Check if using correct joint location reference point

Problem: Too many or too few fasteners on long joints
✅ Review "For Joint Lengths Greater Than" setting
✅ Adjust threshold dimension as needed
✅ Add or remove location entries

Problem: Dado breaks not appearing
✅ Verify "Break Dado Dist" value is entered
✅ Check that dados are present on the parts
✅ Ensure value is appropriate for fastener size

Problem: Route path wrong shape
✅ Check path length and depth values
✅ Verify correct tool selected
✅ Review offset settings
✅ Check "Exit from Entry Point" setting if using closed loop

Problem: Pocket screw angle incorrect
✅ Verify "Initial Plunge Distance" setting
✅ Check "Final Distance from Edge"
✅ Ensure "Final Depth" is appropriate
✅ Confirm correct tool selected

Problem: Fastenlink or specialty connectors not working
✅ Verify toolpath editor parameters are correct
✅ Check that appropriate cutter is selected
✅ Review manufacturer specifications for connector
✅ Ensure dimensions match connector requirements

Advanced Features

Using the Equation Editor

For complex fastener placement, use the equation editor (calculator icon):

Available variables:

• Part dimensions (width, height, thickness)
• Joint dimensions
• Cabinet dimensions

Add up to 4 locations per joint type:

• Location #1: Front fastener
• Location #2: Rear fastener
• Location #3: Center (if joint length exceeds threshold)
• Location #4: Additional center (for very long joints)

Display in Hardware Tab

Check "Display in Hardware Tab" to show fastener configuration in the Hardware section of your project for easy reference.

Workflow: Creating a New Joint Template

Step 1: Add New Fastener

1. Open Joint Templates
2. Click "Add" button
3. Name your fastener (e.g., "Confirmat 5mm")

Step 2: Configure Basic Settings

1. Enter cost and markup
2. Add comment if needed
3. Select fastener type

Step 3: Set Applies To

1. Check appropriate cabinet types
2. Check appropriate end types
3. Consider where fastener should appear

Step 4: Configure Operations

1. Choose Female Side or Male Side
2. Enter drill diameter and depth (for holes)
3. Enter route length and depth (for paths)
4. Select tools if applicable
5. Add offset or center options

Step 5: Set Up Locations

1. Select "Ends" tab
2. Choose joint type (e.g., "End -> Top")
3. Enter Location #1 distance
4. Choose "From Front" or other reference
5. Add Location #2 if needed
6. Set "For Joint Lengths Greater Than" threshold

Step 6: Copy to Other Joints

1. Click "Copy From..." on next joint type
2. Select the joint you just configured
3. Modify distances as needed for this joint
4. Repeat for all joint categories

Step 7: Save and Test

1. Click "OK" to save
2. Create test cabinet
3. Verify operations in Part Editor
4. Check Optimizer output if using CNC

Related Articles

• Adding Edge Operations in Mozaik

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the difference between male and female operations?
A: Female side is the part receiving the joint (typically side panels). Male side is the part entering the joint (typically shelves, tops, bottoms). Think of it like drawer joinery - the female part has the socket, the male part has the pin.

Q: Can I have different fasteners on different joint types?
A: Yes! That's the power of Joint Templates. You can configure Ends differently from Partitions, Dividers differently from Backs, etc.

Q: Why use "For Joint Lengths Greater Than"?
A: This automatically adds extra fasteners to longer joints. For example, short shelves might need 2 fasteners, but a 48" shelf might need 3 or 4 for adequate support.

Q: What does "Move Male to Reverse" do?
A: It flips the male-side operations to the opposite face of the part. Useful when parts can face either direction.

Q: Can I use formulas for fastener placement?
A: Yes! Click the calculator icon next to "Distance Along Joint" to open the equation editor where you can write formulas based on part dimensions.

Q: Why aren't my fastener operations showing?
A: Check three things: (1) "Applies To" settings match your cabinet type, (2) "Don't Use" is not checked for the location, (3) Fastener is assigned in product parameters.

Q: How do I add a custom image for my fastener?
A: Save a .jpg image to C:\Mozaik\Data\Fasteners with the EXACT same name as your fastener (including spaces and capitalization).

Q: Can I have multiple holes at different depths?
A: Yes, use Hole #1 and Hole #2 with different depths. For more complex operations, you may need to create multiple fastener templates.

Q: What's the difference between Route Path and Combo?
A: Route Path creates slots only. Combo creates both a route path AND a hole in a single operation.

Q: Do Joint Templates work with all joint types?
A: Joint Templates work with standard cabinet joints (end-to-side, partition-to-side, etc.). Custom joints created in Part Editor may require manual operation addition.

Q: How do I prevent fasteners from drilling through finished ends?
A: Uncheck "Finished Ends" in the "Applies To" section of your fastener configuration.