Bridge Port published a new build:

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Thank you, Bad Sequel and Mark Carew! Thanks for the encouragement!

 

Hello, JustinTime! Good questions. Right now I am using Vise-Grip brand C-Clamps with the handles to clamp my workpiece.
I plan to install a better clamp system, I just haven't settled on one yet.

I am sending my G Code via Chilipeppr to the TinyG with an old notebook computer. The GCode I am writing by hand. I have SolidWorks and SolidCAM but for this simple task I am just writing Code by hand. It is good mental exercise. It is my understanding that Chilipeppr and TinyG do not do Canned Drilling Cycles, which is disappointing.

At the present I have 3 main files of code, 14 hole for the 32" side panels, 19 holes for the 36" side panels, and 24 holes for the 42" side panels. That is the basic runs. I have an M6 code in the middle that pauses the run so that I can unclamp and swap ends of the panel so it can drill the other side.

My "stops," right now, are just 2 boards that are screwed in place. This setup works fine for the normal sized runs, but when I do tall utility room cabinets, etc I place the workpiece on top of the "stops" which requires a change in the Z-axis zero. Not a big problem, but one I want to eliminate with stops that flip out of the way.

I have been kicking around a button for 32" panels, one for 36" panels, and one for 42" panels. The only way I know to do that would be perhaps driving it with an Arduino and GShield (aka grblShield). I think I could write the code in the Arduino with a Menu on a TFT Touchscreen. That would replace the TinyG and Chilipeppr duo. That project would definitely challenge my thinking.

Right now for the panels that are longer than my rails, I run the 42" sides first, then move the panel up on my table so I can drill the next section. I jog the head to the last drilled hole. Set Zero, and run a file of G-Code that is G91 (Incremental Move) so the code for each hole is the same, as apposed to the G90 (Absolute Move). In G91, Incremental Move Mode, since the code is the same for each hole I just copy and paste how every many more holes I need and that is my 4th file for special runs.

 

"I want to eliminate with stops that flip out of the way." Oops. meant to say I want to eliminate the fixed stops and install stops that flip out of the way for long panels.