Pico Digital Probe
A 5 axis machining center is not truly capable of industrial machining without in-process metrology, so Penta Machine Company developed the Pico Digital Probe.
The probe, which utilizes a Renishaw TP-20 module integrated with an HSK-25 tool holder, enhances the Solo’s ease of use for prototyping and low volume production and sets the stage for automation and high volume production. The probe, which is valued at $3,500 is included in the base price for current Solo machines. It is not currently available for Pocket NC machines.
Common use cases for the probe include:
Setup
Verify stock dimensions and placement
Update work offsets to probed position
In-process Verification
Tool setting verification
In-process dimension verification
Final part Inspection
Current Functionality:
MasterCam post processor support(see below)
Fusion 360 post processor support(see below)
Tool changer integration
30 day battery life on standby
Wireless charging in tool changer
Compliant mechanism for truing the stylus
Infrared communication
Automatic charging and battery status monitoring in Kinetic Control
Near future development goals (6-12 months):
Work offset probing at orientations other than B0 C0
Tool diameter adjustment based on probing data and nominal feature dimensions (comparable to updating tool wear).
Visual probing interface using machine simulation
Mastercam (via Cimco) and Fusion 360 Supported Functionality
Probe independent X, Y, and Z position
Probe X, Y channel with or without island
Probe XY circular bore/boss with or without an island
4 points at nominal center point for a full circle
3 points for a partial arc
Probe XY rectangular bore/boss with or without island
Probe inner corners.
Probe outer corners.
Tolerance checking of expected nominal position
Tolerance checking of expected dimension
Thickness
Diameter
Work offset probing
B0 C0 orientation only
Output probe data to UI
Tool wear and tool diameter updating unavailable
Fusion 360 documentation for probing:
Work offsets Probing - Fusion 360 Help
Geometry Inspection -Fusion 360 Help