Automatic Tool Length Sensor
From PROBOTIX :: wiki
When using multiple tools on a CNC operation, the z-axis is always the goofy axis because, for instance, the lengths of the tools are all different and the distance the tool is inserted into the collet can vary widely - both intentionally and unintentionally. With conventional CNC routing, each tool operation has to be done in a separate g-code file, with each tool needing to be touched off in the z-axis on each tool change.
The new ATLaS automatic tool length sensor for the Comet/Asteroid/Meteor machines radically optimizes this tool change process. With the tool length sensor, you will touch off the first tool with the tool sensor, then touch that tool off to the top of the part to establish the z-axis origin. You will only have to touch off the top of the part one time. On each tool change, the machine will shut off the spindle and drive out to the front of the machine to allow for easy tool change access. The machine will then drive over until it is above the tool sensor, will bounce off of that sensor, will then continue with the cutting process using the new compensated tool length offset.
The tool sensor can measure tools up to 5/8" diameter. You can still use larger tools if you need, but you will not be able to use the automatic tool length sensor when you do. The sensor sits just below the surface of the spoil board. You can make use of that area of the table if you need, but again you will not be able to use the automatic tool length sensor when you do.
To use the this Automatic tool length sensor, your CAM post-processor will need to be modified such that the tool change function, which typically looks like this:
M6 T1
The new tool change function will look like this:
o100 CALL [1]
We will post modified post processors here on the wiki as we compile them. Please contact us if you need help modifying a post processor.
The ATLaS automatic tool length sensor will plug into the secondary parallel port connector on the back of the control PC.