Has anyone set up their desktop to do fast tool change the way the yellow machines do?
If I get the ShopBot desktop unit I'd like it to behave the same way. For me this was more repeatable than using a movable zero plate.
I don't mind updating the Aspire post processor if I need to. I assume I'd also need to create a custom cut.
Workflow:
In Aspire I design the project with Z-zero set to the spoilboard.
I save out the toolpaths as though I have an automatic tool changer -- i.e. multiple tools in a single file using different tool numbers.
When a tool change is needed it pauses, I change the bit and it touches off the zero plate. The zero plate is permanently mounted just outside the spoilboard. The z-zero routine knows the offset to use between the permanently mounted zero plate and the spoilboard. (You have to update the value every time surface the spoilboard)
After touching the zero plate it resumes the file with the new bit.