Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: 4th Axis Concept (long)

Chris Luebke wrote:

>
> With the methods below, we would need to get the control software to first
> locate the spot, then stop there, Knowing that it is at part 0. I'm not sure
> this is necessarily easy or inexpensive to do.

Look inside a disk drive or printer. The part required is cheap or
free, so be sure.

It seems that once zero is found

> via encoder, then the control software would have to re assign part zero. I
> don't think it is possible with the software I would like to make this technique
> work with.

I can't imagine even the worst piece of software not being able to
reset it's home or origin on the fly. Much more likely you're not as
familiar with the software as you need to get..

It would be *very easy* to control with an "indexable

> clutch" and any typical step/dir control on the market because there would be
> nothing proprietary.

That isn't a good reason to use some frail or complex mechanical
'indexable clutch'. Much better to use a solid working system and then
give it the little bit of smarts necessary to operate properly, outside
of what program is running it.

> Too, with the encoder used as below, the part would have to be indexed
> *according to the switch* from the get go, setting zero and then mounting the
> stock.

Nope, you mount your part, index to 0, move to where your zero should
be, and set your home position. Not sure why you're seeing this as so
difficult, it's built into basically every piece of software. Even if
there's something where it isn't, it's easy enough to accomplish outside
the program, with the same controller doing the clutch..