About homing and switches...

[AndyUK]

*ahem* Wheres your build thread? *stamps foot* We want build threads!

I'll try to answer some things...

A) I'd do it every time I start the machine up. You can either run a homing routine from the software which will use your homing switches, or you can just tell the software "Hey, you're at zero now".

B) My understanding is (and I'm sure someone will correct me if i'm way out) that homing on index just means setting the zero point based on the index (ie reported potentiometer position) of the servo, rather than using an external switch. To understand this, you have to know how the close loop servos work - they have a feedback potentiometer which moves only when the motor actually turns, so if something stops the motor rotating it won't change. This position report is called the index. I realise thats two circular ways of saying the same thing, but hey.

C) ?? I know its on IP-S ?? Surely it will say in the IP-M manual.

D) I don't think it does need them, but they could still be helpful. e.g. when you disconnect your drive motors from the ballscrew, the motor and pot might rotate but the CNC wouldn't move, this would change your index for the home position.

E) I believe hall sensors will require a magnet to be mounted as the sensing object. Take a look at induction switches too.

[JW1977]

Yes, the buildthread... I will get to that. :-)

A. When i think about it i begin to wonder if home and zero is the same thing?
I dont really know how to ask without making things complicated but what i would need to understand is the basics.
For example, you make a part in Fusion 360 and you have origo or 0. Will that also be the 0 for the machine or how does it know?
Further more is home for the machine just going to the end of all axes or is home that zero point?

B. It makes sense, Zero would be my indexpoint. It knows where it is and it can return beacuse it counts the steps all the time.

C. The function is there but they are talking servos, not hybrid steppers but it makes sense that it would work.

D. Will do, thanks!

By the way, had a look at your thread and i like your design. Its about the same type as mine.
Really like the "Epoxy project". I have been thinking about that myself in another project.