This is what I did:
- Created a Tool Setup Screen page in Mach3 turn for probing the different types of lathe tools. It does the following using a four sided
tool setter:
- Auto probes to find the lathe center and part end and sets machine coordinates to X and Z =0 also removing any work offsets.
- Probes the tool setter to find work offset for each tool and auto populates the tool table.
- Provides for adjustment of tool offset values which is required for user defined tip radius , drill, reamer etc.
- Provides for defining a tool change position
- Modifying, adjusting, adding a new or replacing a new tool is easily done.
- Provided the ability to open, save, export, inport, reset, a tool table. There is on screen help for the tool setup screen.
I modified the main screen such that it works for the way I use the lathe. I don't use home switches as I find them rather useless but do use soft limits which are user defined. I must also note that quick change tool holders are used and have a few custom made ones which provide for live tooling, a drill chuck for small drills, and a visual probe for manual probing. The screen provides for easy referencing of the lathe and setting / changing work offsets.
- I created an additional screen that allows for probing "whatever" such that data can be obtained, gcode created, a dxf drawing is created
of the probing providing for manipulation of the data for some intended use. A simple example of use is that one can probe a handle to copy it, manipulate the dxf drawing, import into LC, and generate the gcode and run the program all quickly. One can use use probing
for dimensional checking. ie; Used it to check runout of a rifle reloaded cartridge. Don't use that screen often but it is there when needed.
Just make note of something very important:
Probing is only as accurate as your lathe system and how you use it. Tool probing must be repeatable and accurate.
RICH