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Author Topic: I'm sorry but it's tool change time again  (Read 1015 times)

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I'm sorry but it's tool change time again
« on: January 21, 2023, 01:34:02 PM »
I  must be too old now or I just don't understand.
I'm using Mach4 Hobby. Ess Smooth stepper. Win 11 Aspire10.5

The Post Processor Mach ATC 2/3 Arcs MM Text

I have a small file containing 3 different shapes and 3 different tool. I want to save all toolpaths to a single file. But this wont work for me.

I do not have an automatic tool changer turret or otherwise. I have a nice box of tools.

The easiest way I see ahead is to have a standard txt file that I can insert into my Gcode text file at the relevant points.
As each tool is finished I want to stop, retract to a safe height I use Z20.
I can then jog away from my workpiece to an area where I can change the tool but I want to retain the original x0 y0 position so I can return there.
I can then change the tool. Carry out a toll zero using my touch plate.
The code can the carry on by returning to x0 y0.
Does this make sense.
I can then paste this into any gcode text file that I create.
I hope somebody can write me a wee bit of code to do this.
I have edited out lots of lines in  my sample file.
Please see file attached.
One step at a time!