ATC VB script example for rotary changer...

[Chaoticone]

Scott has Brian on the brain. 

Watch the brains intro video tutorials, they will help.

Brett

[drew]

   I didn't know Mach had brains.      Drew

[cowpoke]

When using any of the toolchange macros described above, what file name would one save the macro to in order for it to work with Mach3.  M06.m1s
Normal tool change command is M06 TXX. The M06 calls for a tool change but how does the T value get passed to the macro?
TIA from a macro writing infant,
Claude

[poppabear]

Claude,

   Call it "M6Start.m1s"

The T value is grabbed by the Macro from the G code and from your tool number dro.

scott

[drew]

I just guessed to save it as "M6Start.m1s" like Scott replied. In MDI  put "t0606" hit enter and it runs the macro.
Drew

ps This example is for a Mach lathe setup not a mill. 

[cjmerlin]

Hi, I've just posted a simple toolchanger BRAIN that might be worth looking at to give you some idea's for your application. Your ATC brain would be simpler as you only need to compare the tool encoder position to your tool request.

John

[BOB88]

For Drew,

Does your VB script for the HNC Turret changer require a PLC?  How did you connect to the turret encoder, and air cylinders, to read the BCD code?  Can it all be done through parallel port inputs and outputs?  I'm doing an HNC and would really like to try out MACH3 if I can get by the Turret programming problem.  The machine has a Fanuc  Control with Fanuc 00 motor/encoders on it now, which are coming off.

[drew]

My machine pics at http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php/topic,4618.0.html
My turret uses only LPT and M6Start.m1s macro ( no PLC, macropump or brains) to control 2 solenoids and read the 4 bit BCD and turret down(lock) position. Note when tool changing in lathe only the 'T' code is used no M6 in the g-code program.
The macro indexes at the current machine position so move your turret to a safe position before hand.
My Hnc had a GE 550 control. What fanuc control did/does your Hnc have?