Renishaw and Heidenhain and others make a X,Y,Z, probe's, usually on a CNC mill macros are written using the G31 function (skip input) and will capture whatever you want, typical macros are for center of hole/boss, outside of boss, edge of part, tool length etc.
3 axis probe's are not usually cheap,Up to $10k's but I picked up one on ebay for just over $100, I am just in the process of implementing it on a mill I have.
Al
__________________
CNC, Mechatronics Integration and Machine Design.
“Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”
Albert E. |