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: