[AssassinXCV]

I am planning on making a tool changer for my cnc milling machine. Since I am using a dremel tool for the spindle, it does not have the required capabilities for a 100% automatic tool change.

I need to program in the tool change process to stop (after performing one sequence), and then require user interface to signal that it can move on to the next task.

Here's some pseudo code as an example:

Legend: 
#User (human) Action
@Machine Action

Code: (when tool is in dremel)

@End of Rough Cut Code
@Move to tool post height (a set height compared to table surface)
@Move tool into slot
@Wait for User Confirmation

#Loosen Dremel-tool Collet
#Press Confirmation Button

@Move Z Axis Up to clearance height
@Spin tool rack to Finishing tool
@Move Z Axis Down to Finishing tool (a set height compared to table surface)
@Wait for User Confirmation

#Tighten Dremel-tool Collet
#Press Confirmation Button

@Move tool out of slot
@Run Finishing Path Code

Something like this is what I need to happen. I am using EMC2 (linuxCNC).

Thanks,

Ian

EDIT: Just realized it would be pointless since having the locking collars on the tool shanks would keep the tool lengths set. Would have been cool though.

[neilw20]

M0 is non-optional stop.

.. some code
M0 (adjust tool, zero it and hit cycle start)
.. continue code..

Not sure about EMC2 but if it displays the comment it is all you need.
Works in Mach3

[AssassinXCV]

M0 is non-optional stop.

.. some code
M0 (adjust tool, zero it and hit cycle start)
.. continue code..

Not sure about EMC2 but if it displays the comment it is all you need.
Works in Mach3

So this M0 code usually stops the machine at this like of code, and it waits. Perfect

Thanks,

Ian

[sinha_nsit]

M0 has a difficulty.
Depending on how ladder is written, the spindle may or may not start automatically when CYCLE START is pressed after M0. Therefore, M03/M04 might be needed immediately after M00, in the program.
On Fanuc #3006 can also be used with a message to be displayed, typically up to 26 characters.

[keebler303]

In mach you can use a macro to to turn off the spindle and wait for a cycle start each time a tool change comes up in the code.

Matt