Centroid Probes

[Fueler]

This is more of a suggestion than a question.

I am doing the trial of PI but it doesn't look like I am going to get far.

My Centroid probes are not on the list.

They have 2 probes. A DP4 which is plug in and a DP7 which is wireless.

http://www.centroidcnc.com/cnc_touch_probe.html

So the suggestion is to add the above to the program.

Thanks

[Philip_Hewitt]

Fueler

I haven't seen these probes before.  The dimensions of the DP4 are listed in the specifications section of the DP4 brochure but I don't see details of the DP7.  Here are a few pointers that may be helpful in your current situation.

The correct model of the probe is certainly required for accurate collision detection and simulation but if this blocked your trial, it doesn't have to.  You can select a different probe in PowerInspect with the correct stylus and you will be able to continue your trial, although collisions between the probe and part won't be simulated correctly.  The DP4 is a really small diameter probe- to simulate it in PowerInspect I would suggest that you select something a little bigger, like the Renishaw OMP40.  As long as you have the correct stylus you will be able to program a sequence and get approximate simulation. There will effectively be an extra margin of safety because the larger probe model simulation will detect a collision when in reality there would be a small amount of clearance.

Having said that, different probes vary dramatically in the real world due to probing performance and accuracy.  3d probing is more demanding than 2d part setting and strain gauge probes are typically more accurate than mechanical probes.  (Higher triggering forces will cause a small amount of stylus deflection and pre-travel depending on the probing direction.  Strain gauge probes tend to have consistently low triggering forces and this results in a consistent probing response.  Mechanical probes tend to have more variable triggering forces so the probing response is more affected by direction)  I have no experience with the Centroid probes so I don't know anything about their accuracy- just be aware it's something you may need to consider for your application.

When you come to run on the machine the type of probe doesn't usually affect the postprocessor option file, but the probing parameters will vary quite a lot from one machine to the next.  It is vitally important that you have the correct postprocessor option file for your machine.

[Fueler]

Lots of info there. Thanks

Attached are 3 pdf they offer so far.

I will use the probe you mentioned to see what I can learn about the program

[Fueler]

another pdf