SparkFun Electronics Forum

An Electronic Edge Finder is a device used in machining metal that lets the user know the precise position of a reference surface relative to the center of rotation of a cutter. Typically this is done either via a very precise switch or by having a probe that is insulated from the rest of the machine. The device presented here is similar to the insulated probe approach but does not require it to be insulated. Tests demonstrate that it has a repeatability error of less than +/- 0.0001 inches yet costs less than $10. Most of the complexity is in the software. Furthermore, this device is compatible with Computer Numerical Control's automatic touchdown function.

Here are all of the details: http://rick.sparber.org/SDEF.pdf

Rick

Should post it on the HSM BBS. Lots of guys would be interested.

I have posted on a few metal working sites but didn't think to put it on the Home Shop Machinist (HSM) BBS. I'll do that.

I have found that people interested in machining rarely are into electronics let alone software. By posting on Sparkfun, I know there are plenty of people interested in electronics and software. Maybe a few are also interested in metal working or have a friend who is. They would be able to build this edge finder for their friend.

Thanks,

Rick