Basic questions (new guy)

[mattsgarage]

Where do the majority learn about these machines? I'm far from knowledgable about them, but it seems as though everyone has the basic concepts down. Did I miss a good book to read? Is there a FAQ explaining the basics that I looked over?




On that note, could someone explain something to me.

When you get into 4 and 5 axis machines, the 4th axis tends to be a machine that rotates the item in a 0-90 degree angle. While the 5th axis would be the same except in the opposite direction. The stepper is always on the side only allow the max of a 90 degree turn. Why is the stepper not placed directly in the middle to allow 0-180, or I guess 270-90 degrees would be a better explanation.

[bobcor]

My forth axis rotates 7200 deg and is only limited by the controler software. It is ushaly allows rotation around the x axis, but could be laid down on its back or mounted
at a angle. Some machines have heads that angle and may be called 4 and 5 axis
machines. Others have trunions which rotate in two directions. I have a 8 axis cnc tool
and cutter grinder.

[murphy625]

What part of the CNC do you not understand? Are we talking the over all concept or perhaps your trying to understand how they get a machine to do the stuff automaticaly? (dare I use that word???) ..

Not sure about the 2nd part of your question..

Murphy

[mattsgarage]

Originally Posted by murphy625 What part of the CNC do you not understand? Are we talking the over all concept or perhaps your trying to understand how they get a machine to do the stuff automaticaly? (dare I use that word???) .. Not sure about the 2nd part of your question.. Murphy

The overall concept I have down. I meant more along the lines of the parts within it that control it.

[mattsgarage]

Originally Posted by bobcor My forth axis rotates 7200 deg and is only limited by the controler software. It is ushaly allows rotation around the x axis, but could be laid down on its back or mounted at a angle. Some machines have heads that angle and may be called 4 and 5 axis machines. Others have trunions which rotate in two directions. I have a 8 axis cnc tool and cutter grinder.

Gotcha. Atleast I believe I do....

[ynneb]

The best place to learn is right here on CNCzone.

I guess many are sick of me saying this, But 18 months ago, I never even knew what a CNC machine was. I stumbled upon this site and read a heap of posts, and asked a heap of really dumb questions, and now I have built 2 fully working CNC machines.

Its just a matter of reading heaps. Oh also dont forget our photo gallery, I am a firm believer that a picture is worth a 1000 words.

[buscht]

I agree, this site is the best!

Here's a link with clear definitions of 5 axis machines.
http://www.rainnea.com/cnc_5axisMill.htm

Keep in mind that mulitple axis mean different things to different people and different machines. The definitions are fluid.

[murphy625]

Listen to Benny...

This site is the best place to find help.. Some of these guys are Dr. CNC types. (if you know what I mean)

As far as the control, there are different types that operate on different principles... Some have feedback, some dont, others dont need it.
For your application, you'll need feedback.. Feedback is provided by a device that literally counts shaft turns with resolutions usually around the 2000 Points Per Rotation, up to many thousands of PPR.
Just read this forum an hour a day,,, ask lots of questions (even dumb ones are ok here).. You will know what your doing (sortof) in about 2 weeks.

Murphy

[mattsgarage]

Thanks for the help.

I'll keep reading. I prefer to read articles and books before I ask dumb questions.

[2muchstuff]

There is no such thing as a dumb question. Only dummy's don't ask questions.

[sendkeys]

5 axis stuff is cool but remember to check out the prices of software other then that toolkit Buscht link too. you're talking 5,000+ for just indexing 5axis software. and 10,000's for full 5axis software.

[mattsgarage]

Originally Posted by sendkeys 5 axis stuff is cool but remember to check out the prices of software other then that toolkit Buscht link too. you're talking 5,000+ for just indexing 5axis software. and 10,000's for full 5axis software.

Ouch, I didn't realize that.