Setting up a Tool Setter.

[Smackre]

Here is what i would like to do. Let me know if this is possable.

Id like be able to put a tool in. Tell the machine to start the program. And then have it automaticly move over to a vertical mounted limit switch. Have it come down and touch off. Automaticly setting the tool lenght. Do the first operation and then pause. Then i would change the tool. Then i would want it to go back to tool setting and reset the lenght and do the next operation.

Is this possable on mach?

As the tool setter im planning on verticaly mounting a limit switch. i know this is not the most accuate way but its close enough for the stuff i do.

[CNCgr]

I haven't used Mach but I know it supports variables, macros and subroutines so I can't see why wou couldn't.

You could create a tool change macro to move the tool over the tool setter, lower it till the switch is tripped (maybe repeat with lower feedrate for better accuracy) and change the offset.

Actually I think it's a very good idea for small machines without toolchanger or a repeatable tool mounting solution.

You can make the tool setter quite accurate if you copy the DIY probe design (with the ball bearings). You could even use it to measure the diameter.

Nikolas

[Smackre]

I have never herd of this diy probe design. Do you possably have a link?

[turmite]

It is possible and the button is already on mach2 and 3. Look on the program run page for a button that says tool set! You may well have to edit the vb script that is in the macro but it is pretty easy.....as long as you know vb!

Mike

[turmite]

http://www.indoor.flyer.co.uk/probe.htm

I am in the process of building one now. In fact I have built three so far but my tolerences were not so good. Taking that into consideration, I am re-designing it to see if I can improve my tolerences. The tolerences are not referring to Graham's design, but my machine tolerences, bit run-out etc. If I get this thing working right I will post the drawings here for all to enjoy!

Mike

[CNCgr]

Originally Posted by turmite http://www.indoor.flyer.co.uk/probe.htm I am in the process of building one now. In fact I have built three so far but my tolerences were not so good. Taking that into consideration, I am re-designing it to see if I can improve my tolerences. The tolerences are not referring to Graham's design, but my machine tolerences, bit run-out etc. If I get this thing working right I will post the drawings here for all to enjoy! Mike

Yes, that's the one. Mike, you should add four setscrews to be able to adjust it. Even comercial probes don't rely on zero runout. They can be adjusted with a dial gauge.

Nikolas

[Fifty_ohm]

Check this link.

Tool setting probe

I haven't used it so use a crappy tool to test.