[freemanb]

was just wondering if any of you had ever tried to mount a closed circuit camera on a machine. looking for solutions for saftey and vision problems. any tips, ideas, or suggestions?

[routalot]

We have two 5-axis machines and they both have CCTV systems.
This is in part because of the type of work we use them for and partly because the machines are installed in such a way that it is impossible to see the far side of the workpiece. The cameras are small ccd type appproximately two inches long and just under an inch in diameter. We have them mounted on stands that can be moved around the machine to give the most useful view. The cable is led from the camera to a small monitor near the controller so that when there is concern about clearance, the feed overide can be turned down while concentrating on the monitor. One of the machines is a moving table type and the picture does become a little shaky at high feed rates.Overall, the installation of the CCTV systems was the best value addition to the machines we have ever made and has helped delay the onset of ulcers!At British prices the systems were around £300 each.Hope this helps.