Introduction
The YIDOFENG CNC 3D Touch Probe Edge Finder, NPN-NO, is a precision tool designed for use with CNC machines. It enables accurate workpiece measurement and positioning, facilitating tasks such as finding the center, edge detection, circular centering, and measuring the workbench. This probe helps to streamline machining processes by reducing the need for secondary clamping. It is compatible with GRBL control boards and Mach3 systems.
Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- 1 x 3D Touch Probe
- 1 x Stainless Steel Probe Tip
- 1 x Connecting Cable
- 1 x Storage Box
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power | DC 5-24V |
| Repeatability Accuracy | 0.01 mm / 0.0004 in |
| Feedrate | 50-200 mm/min |
| Over Travel Protection Distance (X/Y) | ±4mm / 0.16 in |
| Over Travel Protection Distance (Z) | 2mm / 0.08 in |
| XY Axis Trigger Force | 0.5-0.82 N |
| Z Axis Trigger Force | 2.7 N |
| Output Type | NPN-NO (Normally Open) |
| Shell Material | Frosted black oxidized aluminum alloy |
| Probe Tip Material | Stainless steel with tungsten steel ball head |
| Cable Length | 2 meters |
Product Features and Design
The YIDOFENG 3D Touch Probe is engineered for durability and precision. Its design incorporates several key features:
- Robust Construction: The shell is made from fine frosted black oxidized aluminum alloy, featuring a flat surface anti-roll design.
- Durable Probe Tip: The 3D touch probe is machined from stainless steel, and the ball head is made of wear-resistant tungsten steel.
- High Repeatability: Designed for consistent and accurate measurements.
- Waterproof and Dustproof: Internal components are protected against environmental factors.
Setup
Wiring Connection (NPN-NO)
The probe uses a 3-wire NPN-NO configuration for connection to your CNC control board. Ensure correct polarity and signal connection to prevent damage.
- Red Wire (VCC): Connect to DC 5-24V power supply.
- Yellow Wire (IO/Signal Output): Connect to the signal input port (tool setting port) of your CNC control board. This outputs a low-level signal when powered and a high-level signal when triggered.
- Black Wire (GND): Connect to ground (DCM).
When the probe is powered on, the indicator light will be green. Upon triggering, the light will turn red.
Mounting the Probe
Mount the probe securely in your CNC machine's spindle. Ensure that an ER11 spring chuck of AAA grade or above is used to maintain concentricity of the probe tip. Improper chucks can affect measurement accuracy.
Concentricity Adjustment
The probe's concentricity is fine-tuned to within 0.05mm before shipment. However, it is recommended to measure and adjust it yourself after receiving the product to ensure optimal accuracy for your specific setup.
Operating Instructions
The 3D Touch Probe is used to accurately locate features on a workpiece or machine bed. It can perform the following functions:
- Edge Finding: Precisely locate the edges of a workpiece.
- Center Finding: Determine the center of a circular feature or a workpiece.
- Workbench Measurement: Map the surface of your machine's workbench.
- Avoiding Secondary Clamping: Accurately set workpiece coordinates to reduce the need for re-clamping during multi-stage operations.
Software Compatibility
This probe is compatible with GRBL control boards and Mach3 systems. Specific probing routines or wizards within your CNC control software will be required to utilize the probe's full functionality. Examples include "Probe Wizard for Mach3" and "GrblGru for grbl 1.1".
Deflection Value Calculation
The deflection value refers to the difference in projection between the center point of the stylus and the actual trigger center point in the measurement direction. This value is crucial for accurate measurements, especially for edge finding.
- If finding the center of a circle or performing relative measurements, yaw calculation is generally not needed.
- For edge finding, the stylus deflection value must be added or subtracted from the measured value.
Example for X-direction deflection calculation:
- Place a gauge or rectangular workpiece on the table.
- Use the probe to measure the value of each surface in the X-direction (X1 and X2).
- Deflection value = (X2 - X1 - Workpiece length - Diameter of Ball head) / 2
Operational Video
Maintenance
- Regular Cleaning: Keep the probe tip and body clean from dust, chips, and coolant to ensure accurate operation.
- Concentricity Check: Periodically check the concentricity of the probe tip. If necessary, adjust it to maintain measurement precision.
- Storage: Store the probe in its provided storage box when not in use to protect it from damage and environmental factors.
- Tip Replacement: If the tungsten steel ball head shows signs of wear or damage, replace the stainless steel probe tip to maintain accuracy.
Troubleshooting
- Problem: Probe not triggering or intermittent signal.
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Possible Causes & Solutions:
- Incorrect Wiring: Double-check the 3-wire connection (VCC, IO, GND) against the wiring diagram. Ensure correct polarity and secure connections.
- Insufficient Power: Verify that the power supply is within the DC 5-24V range and provides stable power.
- Loose Connections: Inspect the cable and its connectors (e.g., USB-C if applicable) for any looseness or damage.
- Control Board Settings: Ensure your CNC control software (GRBL, Mach3) is correctly configured to recognize and interpret the NPN-NO signal from the probe.
- Probe Tip Damage/Wear: A damaged or excessively worn probe tip might not trigger reliably. Inspect the tip and replace if necessary.
- Sensitivity Mismatch: If working with a tool setter, ensure its sensitivity is higher than the edge finder's trigger force (less than 2.7N).
- Problem: Inaccurate measurements.
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Possible Causes & Solutions:
- Concentricity Issues: The probe's concentricity might be off. Perform a concentricity adjustment as described in the Setup section. Ensure an AAA grade ER11 spring chuck or better is used.
- Incorrect Deflection Value: For edge finding, ensure the deflection value is correctly calculated and applied in your software. Refer to the "Deflection Value Calculation" section.
- Probe Tip Contamination: Debris on the probe tip can affect accuracy. Clean the tip thoroughly.
- Machine Rigidity: Ensure your CNC machine is rigid and free from backlash or deflection that could impact probing accuracy.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact YIDOFENG customer service through the retailer where the product was purchased. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
YIDOFENG is committed to providing quality CNC machinery and accessories. Our technical team is available to assist with product inquiries and support.