Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Mach1 w/ toolchanger? Yes. was Re: Measuring backlash more accurately?

Jon:

> do! Any hope that Mach2 will allow closed-loop operation, ie. encoder
> feedback?
>

Mach1 allows for reading the encoders. Mach2 will extend that to closed
loop correction in the future. This will take little while though as the
lathe functions, syncronised movement and spindle postion feedback are the
first to be added after Mach2 goes to beta stage in about 3 weeks.
Also the encoders will be used as a full function DRO to allow for manual
milling. It may be necessary to boost Mach2 to 40,000 Pulses per second to
accomadate the encoder feedback and I'm not yet sure of the effect of high
resolution encoders yet. If 40Khz is fast enough as a sampleing rate for the
encoders then closed loop will occur in a 2-3 month period. Boosting beyond
40Khz is possible but I worry of the effect on lower end comnputers at that
rate. I have successfully used the program at up to 60,000 pulses on single
printer port , but timing starts to get quite critical above 40Khz and at
100Khz lockups could occur if Windows was stressed at all. It may be
possible for me to dual-time though with 100Khz sampleing of the encoders
and 40Khz output frequency, tests on that front appear to be promising.

Mach2 will be quite experimental at times while I see if I can press the
envelop somewhat further, Mach2 will press forward quite quickly as soon as
the main displays and toolpath displayes are completed and stabilized. .

Thanks,
Art
www.artofcnc.ca