Setting up the sub-spindle

See the Sub-spindle topic for full information about setting up the sub-spindle and also the quick reference table.

If you are having trouble, check the following:

• Sub-spindle dialog:
  • Is the correct solid selected? (It should be the sub-spindle chuck)
• Specify Movement dialog:
  • Have you selected Moves as Turn spindle for the main sub-spindle solid? Do not select any other movement options for this solid.
  • Have you set the chuck to rotate (as table) about C?
• Parent/Child Relationships dialog:
  • Is the chuck a child of the main sub-spindle solid?
  • Are the jaws children of the chuck?
• Local Coordinate System dialog:
  • Is the UCS specified for the sub-spindle chuck correct for the rotational motion of the chuck?
  • Is the UCS specified for the main sub-spindle correct for the sub-spindle to move in Z?

Note: The distance between the two spindles is specified within the CNC file.

Tailstock or steady-rest

You can control tailstocks and steady rests using the Part Handling Movement dialog.

Alternatively, you can use UDF macros to simulate them as a sub-spindle. If you are using these, you must specify that the tailstock or steady-rest is the sub-spindle in the MD file. You may need to provide a BASIC script to control the movement.