Bad Tool Load - Retry?

[DaveR]

Hi,

I am trying to get a Versatronics RV1S setup, but while setting up PCB references in RVPlace I receive the error, "Bad Tool Load - Retry?". The machine however successfully navigates to tool 1 and successfully attaches the nozzle.

Has anyone come across this error before?
Does anyone know how the arm detects if a nozzle is attached?

Thanks

DaveR

[Gopher]

The process is discussed at some length in another thread somewhere, but basically after picking up a tool it pushes that tool firmly onto the head by pressing it down on the center strip of the toolholder. This in turn pushes in on one of the analogue sensors on the arm so it knows whether or not it has a tool fitted.

[DaveR]

Thanks,

I did look through the forum but only found similar threads where the machine fails to pick up the nozzles.

I don't suppose you know which analogue sensor in armtest.exe relates to this function, and what sensible values would be?

My only idea at the moment is to thoroughly check the wiring to the arm control card. Do you have any other suggestions?

[Gopher]

Can't remember sorry! I'm sure someone who still has a machine can share.

[phonoplug]

Try running armtest.exe and apply a lifting pressure to the end of the head that the nozzle normally sits on. You should see the appropriate channel changing as you lift and release. If it doesn't then something hardware related is broken.

Not sure what numbers you should expect, it will depend on the ambient light and the ageing of the sensor. I think the threshold for the analog reading is 50%, so anything 128 and above is one way and 127 and below is the other.

[Mike]

This  vid shows the normal tool load sequence
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaqvEftw7aI&feature=player_detailpage#t=612s

[DaveR]

Thanks for your suggestions, I really appreciate it.

It turned out that the spring loaded head had become stuck in the compressed position, so the software couldn't tell that the nozzle had been attached.

After a quick clean it is working again now.