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UPDATE Faster version 2 here: • PMATC Rev 2 - Cheap DI...
About $100 to build the ATC system, and keep using the spindle you already have. Most of the parts can be made with the router you already have and scraps. It uses table space for tools but is pretty lean about it and has high capacity for many tools by simply cutting a longer wooden tool rack.
This is a sneak peek at an initial working prototype of a tool changer system for commonly available hobby and entry-level style 110v/220v spindles that are commonly available around $200 that use 2 wrenches for manual collet tightening. In production use now in my shop and undergoing revision and code portability conversion. Intended for CNC routers but probably adaptable to other machines.
In this unprepared demo run the tool being put away ends up not fully seated in its pocket. This and other periodic issues are currently being debugged and the design revised as I find time. Hopefully soon I'll have things in a good state to leave a proper trail for others to follow.
Right now full tool change cycle is just under 2 minutes but it should not be hard to get that down to 1 minute or so just by optimizing motion and adding a probe strip to the tool rack. Horrible time compared to purpose built ATC spindles, but still infinitely better than manual change when you consider eliminating human error, tool height measurement, etc.
Powered by and requires LinuxCNC/Gmoccapy. Requires spindle speed control (and slow speeds ie 100rpm capable) among other things. The collet lock wrench assembly is getting redesigned to use commonly available cheap materials that will be easier for other folks to access. In this prototype I used some round rod linear bearings I had as spare parts from a scrapped engraver, but this will likely change to V groove bearings and a sheet metal type wrench like you find in furniture assembly kits.