Edge-finder probe.....a concept

[gerald_d]

Here is a concept for an edge-finder probe that can be used to run around the edge of a 2D template. The template can be non-conductive and does not have to be lined with foil tape.


5381

A short section of pipe to fit into the router collet, or clamped to the y-car. Red is electrically connected to the SB ground (earth).

A rod stuck concentrically into the pipe with silicon rubber. An 0-ring can be used under the silicon while it sets. (the cone bush also pushed in while the silicon sets).

Then a conductive conical bush, adjustable for height, grub-screwed to the rod, connected to the lead of the z-zero plate.

When the tip of the rod touches the template, it will flex inside the silicon and there will be electrical contact between bush and pipe.

Too cheap and simple?

[mikejohn]

A variation on your theme.

5382
A rod (blue), is covered for most of its length with a thin insulating sleeve (red).
A length of thin copper tube (yellow) is 'belled' out, cone shaped for half its length, and held onto the insulated rod by an 'elastic' tube (purple). A hoop of wire, the same diameter as the thickness of the insulation material is joined to the inner end of the cone. (green, but hard to see!)
Ground (earth)goes to the blue rod, live to the yellow cone.
.........Mike

[Brady Watson]

Do you have to use a red wire? Is green OK?




-Brady

[mikejohn]

Brady
Red wire is much better at retaining the smoke.
You know if the smoke leaks out, the machine stops working. I'm not technical on electrical matters, but I read all about this in a very old thread
........Mike

[dvanr]

Reading some of the difficulties people have with bent probes led me to this idea, Not as simple but possibly do-able. The probing routine could be simplified to take advantage of its design. Just raster scan a pattern left to right and top to bottom. The probe being able to bend well past 45 degrees with out damage shouldn't suffer being dragged over a 2d pattern.

Green , push button switch. Yellow, sliding piston in tube, Black , spring creating tension through Gray cable threaded through Red adjuster. The Red adjuster controls how much pressure is applied to the Green switch controlling sensitivity/probe offset.

5383

Looks great in colour but would it work in the black and white world?

DvanR