Understanding tool offsets

" From what I've observed, the tool does not move when the offset is applied.
The tool position is offset on the next commanded move.
I've confirmed this by using the MDI as part of my learning process. "

Well I think you're correct. I don't want to move the tool when the offset is applied. I want to apply the offset, then move the tool according to it.

The real problem isn't the movement of the machine. It moves great. But the problem is that I cannot get a function in LinuxCNC which allows me to set the tool's offset according to it's real world position. Once the offset is set for that took when the tool is called up via a tool change command, I can program the tool to move to position. Below should explain.

Basically I need to solidify an offset for each tool before I can command it to that offset. I simply cannot get LinuxCNC to recognize that the tool I am trying to set in the offsets, even exists. The machine hangs when given the MDI command which is primary in setting the offset.

Thanks for the reply, though.

Scot

So I think you have said that when you command a tool change the system hangs.
can you be specific about how you are doing a tool change and spplying the offset?

Also you could test a simulated config (they are included with linuxcnc) to see how it works.
In sim after you home then go to MDI:
T1
M6
Then the tool offsets button will be enabled.
G43 to apply offset 1 to the tool

Now using the tool offsets button you can change the tool offset of tool 1 and can see the difference on the DRO page

Chris

Thanks for the input, Chris.

The problem was that when I went to enable the tool change, the system would hang and stop functioning, disallowing me to use any functions which were working prior. And rather than being able to set the tool offset by using the Tool Touch Off button, nothing functioned, really.

It was a code issue and Jon Elson at Pico Systems came through yet again!

There are a few lines that were missing from the configuration and I'm pleased to say that after those lines were added, I have full functionality and the ability to set the tools.

I've been working on this with the gracious help of many on this forum. And I can tell you this. Once this system is working, anyone who has a Gang Tool configuration lathe will have access to all the files to rebuild it better with LinuxCNC.

I'm unsure if you read some of my earlier posts. But Jon's products are amazing. I used to get 120ipm rapids from this same setup with different amps and electronics. I can get 360ipm rapids now NO PROBLEM. 300% speed increase is a productivity multiplier, for sure!

Again, thank you for the input and time you took from your day to help. It means tons and I'll do what I can to do the same in the future for others.

Scot

Could you please elaborate on which lines were missing that affected this? Just curious!

I'm betting the toolchange handshake pins...

cmorley wrote:

I'm betting the toolchange handshake pins...

Oh yeah, I struggled with understanding that, also.

There are a few lines that were missing from the configuration and I'm pleased to say that after those lines were added, I have full functionality and the ability to set the tools.

Scot,

I'm glad it's working now. If you don't know what exactly was corrected, could you attach the new working config files if that's easier for you? I'd like to look at them so I can learn from it.

Hey there, sir

The code that was added was added to the .io file and here it is:

net tool-number <= iocontrol.0.tool-prep-number
net tool-change-loopback iocontrol.0.tool-change => iocontrol.0.tool-changed
net tool-prepare-loopback iocontrol.0.tool-prepare => iocontrol.0.tool-prepared

The code which was added to the io.hal file is this:

net tool-number <= iocontrol.0.tool-prep-number
net tool-change-loopback iocontrol.0.tool-change => iocontrol.0.tool-changed
net tool-prepare-loopback iocontrol.0.tool-prepare => iocontrol.0.tool-prepared

Once that was added, the button came up, functioned perfectly and I was able to set the tools according to their zeros. The machine is able to be programmed without a hitch now. I just need to verify the accuracy of it by making some parts. I work really small. So the ways and screws need to be at the top of their game.

Thanks for all your help. I means more than you can imagine.

Scot