Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Toolchanger for Defiance.

Hi All:
I've got a project that's near and dear to my heart, and I need some
advice on how to proceed.
As some of you know, I picked up a nice little Defiance VMC a couple of
years ago, but it doesn't have a toolchanger.
I want to build one for it.
I haven't the faintest idea how to proceed with the controller or
electronics issues.
The mechanical guts are no problem; my shop is really well equipped.
The rub is, I know NOTHING about electronics, and vrey little about
controllers other than how to drive them!
Am I nuts to tackle a job like this??

I've sorted out what motions I want the toolchanger to make, and their
sequence, and I have a mechaincal design roughed out.
I have also determined which bits to drive with a stepper or servo, and
which bits to drive with a pneumatic cylinder.
Now I need to figure out how to interface it with my control. (PC driven
Bridgeport DX32).
There is a probing port on the machine, and what looks like a 4th axis port.
There is also a pneumatic collet closer, that is electrically activated.
I budgeted about $5000.00 CDN or so to do the job.
Any more, and I would be better off trading in the machine for a Haas with
toolchanger, and saving myself the hassle.
Comments, anyone??
Any input or help will be greatly appreciated!!!

Marcus