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3,061 bytes added ,  22:52, 9 November 2014
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!Notes
 
!Notes
 
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|11/8/2014
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|Ryan Pierce
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|Updated VCarve Post Processor
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|Previously, installed new Post Processor to preset an Abort / Retry / Ignore dialog box when the spindle is started but doesn't spin up. Usual culprit is that a job is started when the the interlock is disabled, which results in the non-spinning bit crashing into the workpiece. Abort stops the job. Today, fixed Retry code. If you power on the VFD and the motor start is enabled, the VFD refuses to start. So I've re-programmed the Retry button to stop the VFD, wait 2 seconds, start the VFD, wait 2 more seconds, and check again to see if it is running. The Ignore button actually acts as Retry because we don't want someone clicking through this dialog box and damaging the machine. NOTE: The Aspire PC in the shop also has this Post Processor, but if you use Aspire, VCarve Pro, etc. on your personal computer, you will need the latest Post Processor to support this safety check.
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|11/8/2014
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|Ryan Pierce
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|Updated ShopBot software
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|Did upgrade from 3.8.14 to 3.8.26. Installed latest firmware on ShopBot controller. (This was mandatory.) Two features of interest: Fixed occasional erractic behavior after repeated Stops and Resumes (and Nudges or Command Insertions). Reduced liklihood of Keypad lockup.
 
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==Outstanding Maintenance Issues==
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===Lack of True E-Stop===
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As shipped, the ShopBot PRS does not support an Emergency Stop. This could be hacked, but it runs the risk of damaging the machine if engaged in a non-emergency situation. Suggested solution: Installing a 10A double pole 24V coil DIN mount relay, and powering the coil via the 24V supply through a normally closed E-Stop button. One pole will disconnect the 63V stepper motor current. One pole will break the control signal that enables the VFD and will cause the VFD to brake to a stop.
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===Automatic Dust Collection===
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The ShopBot has +5V TTL outputs that could be used to trigger automatic dust collection (when the spindle goes live) and/or a warning light (when the gantry is enabled to move.)
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===Limit Switch Issues===
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Every time you start the ShopBot, it resets itself so that the limit switches are disabled! You can turn them on (if memory serves) with the Values -> Input Switch Assignment menu item. Limit switches are really useful - but they need to be enabled. When they are, they will stop manual jogging when the limit is hit (although pressing the key again will let you continue moving the gantry) and they will also stop a running job (but give you the option of ignoring the limits.)
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I found a couple more problems when testing all the limits. When I took the gantry to X maximum, the dust collector hose pulled off! I put it back on, but I'm not sure how stable this is. Also, when I originally set the Y maximum and minimum, I wanted as much spindle travel as possible. But it appears that if you're at the Y max and move in the X direction, you can hit the middle support with the dust collector boot. We've got several inches Y travel beyond the nominal 48", so we may want to look into reducing this to clear the supports.
    
[[Category:Fabrication]]
 
[[Category:Fabrication]]
 
[[Category:CNC]]
 
[[Category:CNC]]
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