I would like to be able to monitor the Z Depth as I use my machine and it would be a really nice addition to add the data to the Run LCD Screen.
I use the machine to cut FRP plastic tags on a carrier sheet. From time to time the machine would come up slightly short leaving a skin on the bottom of the tag. Since I print on both sides, the skin fractures leaving a cracked edge. Keeping the machine clean and tuned makes a difference but I may go with a smaller bit that the 1/16th end mill in the future. I use 1/4 inch strips of double stick tape to hold the loose tags in place as I do not use tabs that would fracture. I stop the machine now and pop out the first tag to make sure it is OK.
I will be doing a Vacuum Sled for this project.
I had thought of adding a Digital Readout to the Z like used in a Wood Planer but I though I would ask here first....
I have bid on a Tag Project that would require cutting 200 Sheets of Tags if we do them in plastic. I sent Aluminum samples yesterday but this Industrial Use of my tags could be huge... This is a $38.4 Thousand Dollar Quote..
This addition to the LCD would let me monitor the depth as it cuts.
Just had a after thought... Since the Encoder already makes the pulses as an electronic guy I could tap into the pulse train or since I have old motors and encoders piggy back a 2nd encoder on the back of the Z... and use that to monitor the Z.... Or even add just a encoder sensor to the other side of the first disk...
I wish that talking module for the CW had taken off...
AL