- Configuring LinuxCNC
- Advanced Configuration
- tool setter setup: automating z-height offset for tool changes
tool setter setup: automating z-height offset for tool changes
- rhscdn
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13 Feb 2026 15:06 #342892
by rhscdn
tool setter setup: automating z-height offset for tool changes was created by rhscdn
I have a 3 axis mill/router that I primarily use for woodworking/plastics. It's an older machine but upgraded/rewired and running great with LinuxCnc 2.9.7 and QtDragon. It has a manual tool change spindle that I'm happy with but I'd like to automate the process of changing tools a little. Currently, I output a separate nc file for each tool that I run on a job and I manually adjust the z-height after each tool change and reset the G54 z-zero before starting the next nc file/toolpath. It works but it's a little slow and error prone.
I have purchased a tool setter switch, mounted to my machine bed, wired it up to my 7I96s and it seems to work (electrically). However, I'm a little confused on what the best workflow is. Ideally, I'd like to make this as idiot proof as possible with some simple macros. Before I get started I figured I'd ask if anyone else has some macros/ideas to share.
For each job:
I have purchased a tool setter switch, mounted to my machine bed, wired it up to my 7I96s and it seems to work (electrically). However, I'm a little confused on what the best workflow is. Ideally, I'd like to make this as idiot proof as possible with some simple macros. Before I get started I figured I'd ask if anyone else has some macros/ideas to share.
For each job:
- Manually install the starting tool and zero it to the machine bed or work piece top
- Start the job
- Automatically move to the xy position of the tool setter to measure the z offset of this first bit
- For each M6 tool change:
- Automatically move to the xy position for tool changes (front center)
- Manually change the tool and confirm change complete
- Automatically move to the xy position of the tool setter to measure the z offset of the next bit
- Automatically calculate the difference in height between the new tool and the 1st tool and update G54 z zero
- Automatically continue job
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- Configuring LinuxCNC
- Advanced Configuration
- tool setter setup: automating z-height offset for tool changes
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