Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Z axis

Flashcut's macro (subroutine) capability could probably be configured
for such a setup as switching from knee drive to quill drive - but why
would you want to control both the knee and the quill? The only reason
I drove the knee was because 5" of quill movement was not enough to
handle work height, different tool length offsets and the additional
clearance needed to withdraw an R8 tool holder from the spindle. I
wanted to be able to specify an XYZ coordinate for a tool change
position where I could swap tools out without losing program position.

My first machine (mill/drill with cylindrical column) had only the quill
driven and and it used to drive me crazy trying to set up a job within a
5" vertical control range. I still use it for secondary operations but
typically where I don't need to do a tool change. It's very cool to see
the big machine complete a machining process, turn off the spindle and
coolant, zip to the tool change position and then wait for me to swap
tools and press start to then see it resume machining without losing a
thou!

Remember the KISS principle. Some system complexity is required to get
the job done - but no more than necessary...

Cheers, Peter

Smoke wrote:

> With a bit of electrical and/or programming skill, I see no reason why
> someone doesn't set up a Bridgeport type mill to take advantage of both the
> knee movement and the quill movement.
> This would provide about 21" of Z axis.
>
> Just set up the machine to always operate the knee until it gets to it's
> upper movement limit and hits a stop switch. Then switch to the quill for
> further movement.
>
> If not being able to stop at the same place every time would be a problem,
> then the system could bet set to move a max of say 15-3/4 inches and then
> switch to the quill. That would provide a 1/4" overtravel cushion.
>
> Smoke
>
>
>>really appreciate having 16" of vertical travel under computer control.
>>
>>
>
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