New Rotary help please.

[dustypilot]

LUKE.crv3d (927.5 KB)

Installed 4th axis per directions. Reset controller and downloaded 4th axis driver for my Pro V5 (not Elite). Using Aspire, ran the gadget to turn square stock round and it did a great job making a 1.75" diameter cylinder. So I know how to zero, the controller talks to the headstock, things are aligned and I have the proper driver. So when I try to make Luke's lightsaber, no go. I drew a bunch of boxes in the right places and then ran a simple pocket toolpath to a given depth figuring my 1/4" end mill would do the trick just like it did with rounding but no luck.

For the first toolpath (Mill 1) spindle starts, it drops into the work at the right depth and location, and carves out about a 1/2" box. That's it. It doesn't rotate the 360 deg as I would expect. So any help that can be provided would be appreciated.

Oh, i did setup along the Y axis per the instructions and like i say the Rounding Stock gadget works great so there is another hiccup here somewhere.

Thank you,
Tim

[dustypilot]

Somewhere I found this and it WORKED to fix my issue:
To adjust this setting: From the main coordinate screen, press MENU and select the System Setup. Then scroll down and choose the Function Configuration option. (listed as just Function Confi on screen)

Locate the RT Type parameter…..highlight and press the Delete button.

Then select the “Normal” option.

*You should receive a prompt from the system that shows that you have modified the system configuration*

Reboot the machine and run a test.

With any luck, everything works.

[dustypilot]

So this is a dumb post. Bottom line: every machine delivered with 4th access should be setup like this to avoid my hassle. I have another story about allowing the machines to "optimize when we're not looking" but will save it for another time. NORMAL is the way to go.

[joeblow]

I had the rotary for awhile before that fix came out. Complete radial toolpaths work perfect with it.

I took a look at your file and really like your 2d toolpath approach to mill Luke's Lightsaber. I was wondering why you used an offset strategy to complete all 16 pocketing toolpaths. Never really utilized the full radial movement that the RT parameter change provided us. By rastering at a raster angle of 0 degrees your endmill will pocket 360* and then stepover and repeat. On wide pockets I like to raster at an angle of 90* as I am much less likely to lose steps. Been there done that.

I also dedicated work coordinate states 1-3 for rotary only. That way I won't lose X0 and have to reset X. I put a bit of time into aligning the tailstock with the chuck centerline and my Y is running true.

Looking forward to seeing what you make with it. It's a quite capable accessory when paired with the right software.