Posting this to get a quick temperature read on interest level.
So, about 6 years ago I built an Arduino-based pendant for LinuxCNC (video attached below). At the time I used it with an X2 build, and swapped it right over to my 1100 (running LinuxCNC) when I bought that two years later. I've never really finished the pendant as I originally intended, but all the features I implemented have worked fine.
Since then, I've done a ton of more sophisticated MCU work, and the hardware has come a very long way, and since Tormach has switched to a LinuxCNC-based control, I'm thinking of redesigning the pendant around a newer microcontroller, better graphical display, and configured natively for PathPilot.
My original pendant design (seen below) used an Arduino Uno with a good old 20x4 LCD display, a high-quality optoelectronic encoder, and a sort-of membrane 25-key keypad using tactile switches and weather stripping. The LCD implemented a DRO and spindle speed readout, and the encoder provided an MPG with selectable steps per click, and the keypad gave continuous feeds in the X and Y axis plus Run/Stop/Pause and a few other bits. I intended to implement a bunch of other capabilities but once I got the basics working it was so useful I got busy with other projects.
Anyway, I'm thinking of revisiting this now that my electronic design and embedded software skills are a lot better. Here's what I'm thinking:
- MCU: Teensy 3.5
- Display: ILI9341 320x240 RGB touchscreen
- Encoder: Something like this: Grayhill joystick/encoder/switch
Functionality-wise, I'm thinking the usual MPG/feed functions, with a DRO, plus the ability to set and adjust spindle speeds, coolant on/off, FRO, SRO, and start/stop/pause/single-block programs. I'd also like to implement a drill mode since drilling holes is one of the main things I often find myself doing manually using MDI, plus maybe a touch-off function to support using an edge finder.
My intention would be I think to go the open source/kit route since I think the volumes here will be limited, and that gives the option for most bang for buck, and the least liability for me. The assembly would be pretty basic through-hole soldering. In quantity one, parts cost for the above plus miscellaneous bits and an enclosure would probably be about $120. Software would all be Arduino-based, so super easy for people to pick up and modify and maintain even if I stopped caring.
Like I said, I might do this just for my own amusement, but curious how many others out there think they might find utility in something like it.