[FoxCNC1]

Hello guys,

I want to understand the workflow of manually changing tools with a DIY machine running mach 3.
In my path software I am able to denote different tool numbers and this comes through the G-code generated. I did a quick test (with the machine off) last night and I got Mach 3 to stop the machine and wait for a tool change. Now the question is, the machine stops on the spot, and I would like to know, how to make it raise the Z to a safe height, allow me to change the tool / bit and allow me to use my touch plate to zero it again in hopes to address any offsets from the installed the new tool.

Is this possible? if so, how can I accomplish this?
Thanks

[FoxCNC1]

no one? - this be done?

[Spk64]

Check out the 2010 screenset for Mach. Has a nice tool change setup works just like you described.

Edit:
Here is a Short video showing how it works
http://youtu.be/pJNUcsJ6BC8

Steve

[FoxCNC1]

thanks, that's very fancy - way more than what I need. plus for that set up you need limit switches etc.

[ger21]

Be aware that if you do 3D work, you often can't use the touch plate again, because the surface you used at the start is gone.

Check out the Big Tex thread here. You should be able to find examples for most of the code you'd need, but you'll need to modify it to work the way you want to.

[FoxCNC1]

Are you able to make a script for me to do something like that for a price ?

One problem I'm having is also being to cut the same path with two different tools. For example carve a line w a narrow bit to one depth, and the cone back and carve on the same path with a wider tool but a shallower depth. I find that the bit shifts a bit etc.

I think this doesn't really relate, but I'm wondering if there is a posible solution.

I also realize I can break my code and running. Each tool on its own, but I just wanted to automate things.

Tool offsets would work great if there was a way to limit how deep each bit goes in the spindle. I just got a precise bits collet kit but I am not sure if this possible.

[ger21]

Are you able to make a script for me to do something like that for a price ?

I don't really have the time, and you wouldn't like the price.

And it doesn't really make sense when I already have a more automated system for $20??

One problem I'm having is also being to cut the same path with two different tools. For example carve a line w a narrow bit to one depth, and the cone back and carve on the same path with a wider tool but a shallower depth. I find that the bit shifts a bit etc.

If it's shifting in X or Y, then either the part is moving, or you're losing steps.

Tool offsets would work great if there was a way to limit how deep each bit goes in the spindle. I just got a precise bits collet kit but I am not sure if this possible.

Tool offsets aren't really an option with a router unless you have an ATC

[Spk64]

I have been using the 2010 screenset for a few weeks and really like it. It does automate tool changes quite easily.
It can be used without home switches but you must have a some sort of manual method to define the home location so the fixed touch plate can be found.

It does not get much easier than that.
It sounds overwhelming at first but once you walk through it you find out how easy it is.


Steve

[hockeyguy01]

in the video what input pins are you using is it the same one as the first z plate is using. I had this running at one time on my machine but had to take the machine apart and cant remember how I had it wired. The script is still in the computer. just not sure what pin to make this.

Here is my pins on my machine

a home slave to y pin 12
y home pin 13
x home pin 10
z home pin 11 touch plate like your first one

what pin and input do I need to use to start this program ..

here is a link to my question

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/uncate...ght-plate.html

[ger21]

My 2 plates are wired together, to the same pin.

[hockeyguy01]

in the video what input pins are you using is it the same one as the first z plate is using. I had this running at one time on my machine but had to take the machine apart and cant remember how I had it wired. The script is still in the computer. just not sure what pin to make this.

Here is my pins on my machine

a home slave to y pin 12
y home pin 13
x home pin 10
z home pin 11 touch plate like your first one

what pin and input do I need to use to start this program ..

here is a link to my question

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/uncate...ght-plate.html

Ok so I should try it with my z home pin 11 did you use

[hockeyguy01]

Ok so I should try it with my z home pin 11