Design, specify components, and write the relevant code for an Arduino based solution for a saw fence adjustment system
Budget: $250 – $750 AUD
We are in the need of two new digital controllers to replace failed units that controlled automated material positioning devices fitted to our circular saw bench, known as crosscut stop, and rip fence. We have had no support from the manufacturer to enable repair, they only want to sell us two new units complete with all new hardware. The hardware is good quality, and still works fine, we just need be able to control it. We need someone to design, specify components, and write the relevant code for an Arduino based solution. The present controllers have many functions that we do not need, and we are confident that Arduino can provide all the functionality we need. We can assemble, wire and setup the new control units in-house.
The devices are just like linear actuators, they consist of servo motors, with optical encoders, that turn ball screws, via a toothed belt, moving either the stop or fence to the required position. There are limit switches fitted at both ends of travel for protection and initial calibration at startup.
At the moment we are controlling the devices using a 24vdc power supply, a forward/reverse switch and a PWM speed controller to enable approaching the final dimension slowly. The motors are rated for much higher voltage, but 24v moves things quickly enough. Neither unit draws more than 1amp in operation
Input from a user would be through a numeric keypad with a couple of other programmable buttons, one being “enter” the other “calibrate”. Feedback would be via a 16 x 2 character LCD screen. Accuracy required is 0.1mm
Operation would be (after a startup routine) to input a numeric value, press enter, and the stop or fence would move to that position and display the current position on the screen. Calibration would be to press the assigned button and input the correct current value, then press enter, corrected value will be displayed.
We will supply all details on the existing hardware as needed.
The devices are just like linear actuators, they consist of servo motors, with optical encoders, that turn ball screws, via a toothed belt, moving either the stop or fence to the required position. There are limit switches fitted at both ends of travel for protection and initial calibration at startup.
At the moment we are controlling the devices using a 24vdc power supply, a forward/reverse switch and a PWM speed controller to enable approaching the final dimension slowly. The motors are rated for much higher voltage, but 24v moves things quickly enough. Neither unit draws more than 1amp in operation
Input from a user would be through a numeric keypad with a couple of other programmable buttons, one being “enter” the other “calibrate”. Feedback would be via a 16 x 2 character LCD screen. Accuracy required is 0.1mm
Operation would be (after a startup routine) to input a numeric value, press enter, and the stop or fence would move to that position and display the current position on the screen. Calibration would be to press the assigned button and input the correct current value, then press enter, corrected value will be displayed.
We will supply all details on the existing hardware as needed.