New LinuxCNC Multi-Channel System – Looking for Testers & Feedback

@retrofitcenter...

This forum has no PM functionality.  Do you have a github repo or similar location where I could provide my config and related files?

I have no issues posting files here, but the inevitable back-and-forth with file transfers during iteration gets really clumsy when done through a forum.

I'd be happy to discuss whatever you'd like during a video call.

This is the sort of thing I'm talking about:  $6k for a 32mm swiss.  Probably get it for 5.

hgrinc.com/productDetail/CNC/Used-Star-M...C-Lathe/11240360356/

retrofitcenter wrote:

Yes, it will be open source.

Thank you.

absolutely. I agree that exchanging files through the forum would get cumbersome very quickly once we start iterating.

I’m using GitLab for the development, so I think that would be the easiest solution. I can set up a dedicated repository/project for the testing where you can upload your LinuxCNC configuration, HAL/INI files, custom components, machine documentation, etc. We can then track changes through Git and use issues for individual problems or features.

If you don’t want your machine configuration to be public, that’s no problem, I can make the repository private and give you access directly.

A video call would also be very useful. Especially at the beginning, it would probably save quite a bit of back-and-forth if you could show me the machine architecture, channels, spindles, axes and what you want to achieve.

And yes, the 32 mm Swiss-type machine is exactly the kind of machine I’m looking for. For around $5–6k it could be a very interesting test platform for the multichannel system.

I’ll prepare the GitLab structure and send you access/details.

@retrofitcenter...

Hi , I gathered that you’re from Austria. I am too.
I think what you’re aiming to implement in LinuxCNC is great and exciting.
The multi-channel control option is definitely a real asset to the LinuxCNC project.
It makes it possible to successfully retrofit older machines—such as complete Homag woodworking centers with multiple table zones—using LinuxCNC. I work in the woodworking industry myself.
I also took a look around your website—you’re working on some great projects there.
What kind of training or education did you complete? Mechanical engineering?

hermann1976 wrote:

It makes it possible to successfully retrofit older machines—such as complete Homag woodworking centers with multiple table zones—using LinuxCNC.

I am pretty sure that can be done already, see G55, G56, etc.

Servus, thanks for your message, nice to meet another Austrian here!

I’m originally from the Amstetten area, but Salzburg is also home for me. I went to HTL in Steyr, and I’ve been self-employed for around 20 years, mainly working in the aerospace and automotive industries.

My background is primarily in PLC programming, CNC machining and industrial automation. Over the years I’ve worked on pretty much everything around metalworking: mechanical engineering, machine automation, fixtures and clamping systems, CNC programming, commissioning, and of course complete machine retrofits.

I also started working with LinuxCNC very early on and was one of the first to use it seriously for machining centers rather than just simpler hobby machines. That experience is actually one of the reasons why I’m now pushing the multi-channel system further, I see a lot of potential for bringing older but mechanically excellent industrial machines back to life.

Your Homag example is interesting as well. Multi-channel control could definitely open up a lot of possibilities for machines with several working areas, tables or independently coordinated processes.