Using 2 or more tools

[mnrite@yahoo.com]

What is the eaisest way to cut parts that require two or more tools. I am looking a purchasing a Shopbot so I would have an alpha machine with the newest part wizard software.

Thanks
Mike

[paco]

"Manually"; between each file/tool bit, with the required procedures... 2 z-axis installed (2 tool bits available)... or a $$$ automatic tool changer! Or better; a "human robot" (like the "ShotBot") that could do it as preparing coffee and cookies too!!
No, seriously, what are your criterion?

[James T (Unregistered Guest)]

Mike, the easiest way is to create a toolpath/SBP file for each tool. You can edit and combine the SBP files into one and add a pause for the required tool change if you prefer to have just one file.

[Paul Amos (Unregistered Guest)]

Mike

It is pretty simple do do that with a ShopBot fitted with 2 Z axis
below is an example of a simple set of part files which switches between the 2 Z axis off sets.
Within the individual part files are commands to switch on and off
each router

Master file to cut door panel

1. Calls first part file

2. Then swiches Z axix and sets the offset

3. Then calls second part file

--------------------------------------------------
'Master file. dorpan.sbp

'Initialize stuff
'Set tool to Absolute mode
SA,
VD,,,1

[mnrite@yahoo.com]

Thanks, I guess what I wanted to be sure of is that I could run an operation on a part, them without moving the part, change tools(bits), re-zero on the zero plate and run a second (or third etc.) operation on that part.

Thanks
Mike

[fleinbach]

Mike,

The answer is yes, you can use one motor and do just as you described.

[Paul Amos (Unregistered Guest)]

Mike

Using 2 cutters is fine but to have a third cutter change would be a problem, you would need to change the cutter and re-zero....not recommended in the middle of a set of part files on safety grounds.

The other option is to run you two cutters in one part file, change cutters then run a seperate file.

What we really need is a Shopbot auto tool changer !!!

Regards


Paul

[elcruisr]

We run some very complicated parts nests that require anywhere from 2 to 4 different tools. We just write a tool path for each and change and zero bits in between programs. I dosn't take very long when you are used to it, about 2.5 minutes or so. I'd love a good toolchanger but I'm not ready to buy a new spindle to use one yet, maybe next year.

Eric

[lto]

This is the first that I've heard mention of the possibility of a tool changer on a shopbot, does anyone use already? I am preparing to order my SB very soon and was planning on a single 5 HP spindle. I understand that with the 5 HP my option of later adding a second Z axis is eliminated. This caused me to debate a bit whether I should just opt for the 3 HP. Does anyone with experiance with the Columbo spindles have some practicle input on this?
Thanks,

[andrewm]

Here is a simple master program I use for parts with mutliple bits. I export each bit file from parts wizard and name them 1 VBit.sbp (step 1, use v bit). Each tool change only takes a minute or two.

'FP,file,x,y,z,rep,2=offset - File Format

'Move to good spot to load bit.
J3, 6,6,2.5
'Load V bit and ready zero plate under bit with spindle OFF.
pause
'Run the Zero plate program
C2
'Turn ON Spindle Set the RPM and hit ENTER.
pause
J2,0,0
FP,1 Vbitfile,,,,,2
J3, 6,6,2.5

'Load 3/8 spiral bit and ready zero plate under bit with spindle OFF.
pause
'Run the Zero plate program
C2
'Turn ON Spindle Set the RPM and hit ENTER.
pause
J2,0,0
FP,2 38bitfile,,,,,2
J3, 96,24,2.5
'Project Finished. Turn OFF spindle and clear table.
pause

[edp]

Just had a request from a local marble supplier for information on the Shopbot. Wants to know if it is possible to cut out ellitical holes for mounting sinks in 3/4" thick marble vanity tops. Does anyone have experience cutting marble of this thickness?

[elcruisr]

Cultured marble (resin) could be done but stone cutting CNC machines are a very specialised machine. They require lots of water coolant and the mechanical/electrical protection that goes with it!

Eric

[jerryk]

E. F.
I have had very good success vcarving marble to a depth of 0.25 inches. I sprayed water on bit as it was cutting. Bit did not even get hot. I think cutting real marble would be fine on a shopbot, just slower speed and multiple passes.
Jerry

[edp]

Thanks for the input - the guy here is cutting real marble and finds that the process is not fast enough for the volume of product he has to turn out - He mentioned that the specialized CNC machines are way out of his price range - we have a 270,000 population here in Barbados and just don't have the volume to justify a high dollar machine. Not everyone wants (or can afford) marble vanity tops.....

[kaaboom_99]

Sure, "Not everyone wants (or can afford) marble vanity tops...", but everyone should have a marble headstone. (Just another possible venue)

[fleinbach]

but everyone should have a marble headstone. (Just another possible venue)

Unless you are too "Poore"

[mikejohn]

Do you mind if I wait a bit for my marble headstone?

[kaaboom_99]

That's right!! I am sooooo poor, it is my last name - :^}
If my folks had a sense of humour, they would have given me a first name of "Very" or "Iam" or maybe "Ohso". Since I bought the PRT, my friends call me an oxymoron, because I am a "Rich" Poore - hehehe