Dynomotion

Group: DynoMotion Message: 10523 From: daveymahomh600e Date: 11/19/2014
Subject: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
Hello Everyone,

I am looking for a touchscreen HMI unit which would be a good fit for a KFlop/SnapAmp-controlled lathe. Has anyone come across one that you would recommend?

What kind of features should I watch for with regard to connectivity?

Thanks,
David.


Group: DynoMotion Message: 10524 From: Dan Date: 11/19/2014
Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
I would think any that allow you to use RS232 Modbus RTU at a compatible data rate could be made to work. Without knowing your experience in C programming or programming industrial controls it might be steep learning curve, or it might be a piece of cake for you.
 
I have a KFLOP/KANALOG connected to a Automation Direct Do-More PLC and that is connected to a Automation Direct C-More Micro 6” HMI. I am using this setup because the price was right. I would use a Automation Direct CLICK PLC if I were to be buying the parts new. I am doing this because I needed additional I/O and the PLC currently has 4 serial ports and is plenty fast to hand being the “middle man”. I am not using the HMI for any functions yet, just some testing because I have no place to mount it yet.
 
 
Dan
 
Sent: Wednesday, November 19, 2014 8:17 PM
Subject: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
 
 

Hello Everyone,

I am looking for a touchscreen HMI unit which would be a good fit for a KFlop/SnapAmp-controlled lathe. Has anyone come across one that you would recommend?

What kind of features should I watch for with regard to connectivity?

Thanks,
David.


Group: DynoMotion Message: 10525 From: Michael Rosenfield Date: 11/19/2014
Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
I am using a touch-screen monitor with the PC for the kflop on my 3-axis mill.
I'm running KMotionCNC, and the whole thing is a very simple setup and works great!
 
Michael Rosenfield
 
Group: DynoMotion Message: 10526 From: David Stevenson Date: 11/20/2014
Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
Thanks Dan.

I have little knowledge of C programming, but in following some of the recent posts regarding Modbus I was pretty much lost. Most likely I will find a used unit and do some experimenting.

Thanks,
David.

On 11/19/2014 10:29 PM, 'Dan' engnerdan@... [DynoMotion] wrote:
 

I would think any that allow you to use RS232 Modbus RTU at a compatible data rate could be made to work. Without knowing your experience in C programming or programming industrial controls it might be steep learning curve, or it might be a piece of cake for you.
 
I have a KFLOP/KANALOG connected to a Automation Direct Do-More PLC and that is connected to a Automation Direct C-More Micro 6” HMI. I am using this setup because the price was right. I would use a Automation Direct CLICK PLC if I were to be buying the parts new. I am doing this because I needed additional I/O and the PLC currently has 4 serial ports and is plenty fast to hand being the “middle man”. I am not using the HMI for any functions yet, just some testing because I have no place to mount it yet.
 
 
Dan
 
Sent: Wednesday, November 19, 2014 8:17 PM
Subject: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
 
 

Hello Everyone,

I am looking for a touchscreen HMI unit which would be a good fit for a KFlop/SnapAmp-controlled lathe. Has anyone come across one that you would recommend?

What kind of features should I watch for with regard to connectivity?

Thanks,
David.



Group: DynoMotion Message: 10527 From: David Stevenson Date: 11/20/2014
Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
Hi Michael,

I wonder if the PC is the key. Does KFlop need the PC to run custom routines? I do use a couple of Windows based special programs.

Thanks,
David.

On 11/19/2014 10:46 PM, Michael Rosenfield mrosenfield@... [DynoMotion] wrote:
 

I am using a touch-screen monitor with the PC for the kflop on my 3-axis mill.
I'm running KMotionCNC, and the whole thing is a very simple setup and works great!
 
Michael Rosenfield
 
Group: DynoMotion Message: 10528 From: Michael Rosenfield Date: 11/20/2014
Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
David,
I'm a little rusty on this - have to wake up the old brain cells!
The KFlop itself doesn't specifically need a pc (after it has been configured) but it does need something to tell it what to do.
So, for the milling application, something needs to organize the motion commands and then send them to the KFlop.
For that, I use DynoMotion's KMotionCNC software, which runs on the PC. Lots of people use another PC-based set of software called Mach3.
Both of these allow custom routines to be fed to the KFlop, and both allow varying amounts of customization to the operating console display screen, which is the PC monitor.
The beauty of the KFlop is that it can be easily customized for any application, as long as you have someone to write the software for it.
For common machine tools, many people have already written this, so there's a lot out there to use.
Dynomotion's tech support is second to none, and the user group is also fantastic.
 
KMotionCNC supports custom routines with a screen button press, and they are very straightforward to implement, as long as you can do some C programming. As I said, lots of help is available in this area!
Customizing the screen look of KMotionCNC is more limited (as of a year ago; I haven't looked at any changes since then) unless you want to do some heavy C programming under Windows. But I found it more than adequate for dealing with my mill.
 
Of course, the HMI is just another computer that has been pre-programmed to make user-customization of the look very easy. I looked into one for my mill, but I found them to be very expensive - close to $1000, as I recall. I ended up finding a used touch-screen monitor on EBay for $250, and although it is not as compact as many of the HMI's, functionally it is perfect.
One still needs a keyboard for the PC for some applications - especially PC maintenance and file handling - but it's generally not used while making parts.
 
A bit long winded, but I hope this helps!
 
Michael
 
Group: DynoMotion Message: 10529 From: Tom Kerekes Date: 11/20/2014
Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
Hi David,

I think you need a Windows PC for your application (rather than a PLC type HMI).  Our GCode Interpreter, Trajectory Planner, Coordinated Motion Libraries, KMotionCNC GUI, and the TeachMotion Program you use all currently require to run on a Microsoft Windows PC.  KFLOP is capable of running in stand-alone mode without a PC for some simpler applications but I don't think that applies to you.

I'd suggest a Windows PC with a reasonably sized touch screen monitor.  I had a W8 Laptop that had a Keyboard Failure.  I found that I could operate everything quite nicely with the pop-up on-screen keyboard.

Let us know what you decide and how it works out.

Regards
TK

Group: DynoMotion Message: 10530 From: Adrian Balan Date: 11/20/2014
Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
Attachments :

    Hi TK,

     

    That is a good news for me.  I have a project for a Automatic Glue Applicator and it will be excellent if  the path can be loaded through USB/RS232 interface and run without   any additional hardware (PC & monitor). So, could you be more detailed about how you can run a simple app direct from KFLOP?

     

    Thanks,

    Adrian

     

    From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com [mailto:DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com]
    Sent: November 20, 2014 12:20 PM
    To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
    Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

     

     

    Hi David,



    I think you need a Windows PC for your application (rather than a PLC type HMI).  Our GCode Interpreter, Trajectory Planner, Coordinated Motion Libraries, KMotionCNC GUI, and the TeachMotion Program you use all currently require to run on a Microsoft Windows PC.  KFLOP is capable of running in stand-alone mode without a PC for some simpler applications but I don't think that applies to you.



    I'd suggest a Windows PC with a reasonably sized touch screen monitor.  I had a W8 Laptop that had a Keyboard Failure.  I found that I could operate everything quite nicely with the pop-up on-screen keyboard.



    Let us know what you decide and how it works out.



    Regards

    TK

     


    From: "Michael Rosenfield mrosenfield@... [DynoMotion]" <DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com>
    To: "DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com" <dynomotion@yahoogroups.com>
    Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2014 7:21 AM
    Subject: RE: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

     

     

    David,
    I'm a little rusty on this - have to wake up the old brain cells!
    The KFlop itself doesn't specifically need a pc (after it has been configured) but it does need something to tell it what to do.
    So, for the milling application, something needs to organize the motion commands and then send them to the KFlop.
    For that, I use DynoMotion's KMotionCNC software, which runs on the PC. Lots of people use another PC-based set of software called Mach3.
    Both of these allow custom routines to be fed to the KFlop, and both allow varying amounts of customization to the operating console display screen, which is the PC monitor.
    The beauty of the KFlop is that it can be easily customized for any application, as long as you have someone to write the software for it.
    For common machine tools, many people have already written this, so there's a lot out there to use.
    Dynomotion's tech support is second to none, and the user group is also fantastic.
     
    KMotionCNC supports custom routines with a screen button press, and they are very straightforward to implement, as long as you can do some C programming. As I said, lots of help is available in this area!
    Customizing the screen look of KMotionCNC is more limited (as of a year ago; I haven't looked at any changes since then) unless you want to do some heavy C programming under Windows. But I found it more than adequate for dealing with my mill.
     
    Of course, the HMI is just another computer that has been pre-programmed to make user-customization of the look very easy. I looked into one for my mill, but I found them to be very expensive - close to $1000, as I recall. I ended up finding a used touch-screen monitor on EBay for $250, and although it is not as compact as many of the HMI's, functionally it is perfect.
    One still needs a keyboard for the PC for some applications - especially PC maintenance and file handling - but it's generally not used while making parts.
     
    A bit long winded, but I hope this helps!
     
    Michael
     

     


    To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
    From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
    Date: Thu, 20 Nov 2014 06:26:58 -0500
    Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

     

    Hi Michael,

    I wonder if the PC is the key. Does KFlop need the PC to run custom routines? I do use a couple of Windows based special programs.

    Thanks,
    David.

    On 11/19/2014 10:46 PM, Michael Rosenfield mrosenfield@... [DynoMotion] wrote:

     

     

    I am using a touch-screen monitor with the PC for the kflop on my 3-axis mill.
    I'm running KMotionCNC, and the whole thing is a very simple setup and works great!
     
    Michael Rosenfield
     


    To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
    From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
    Date: Wed, 19 Nov 2014 21:29:03 -0600
    Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

     

    I would think any that allow you to use RS232 Modbus RTU at a compatible data rate could be made to work. Without knowing your experience in C programming or programming industrial controls it might be steep learning curve, or it might be a piece of cake for you.

     

    I have a KFLOP/KANALOG connected to a Automation Direct Do-More PLC and that is connected to a Automation Direct C-More Micro 6” HMI. I am using this setup because the price was right. I would use a Automation Direct CLICK PLC if I were to be buying the parts new. I am doing this because I needed additional I/O and the PLC currently has 4 serial ports and is plenty fast to hand being the “middle man”. I am not using the HMI for any functions yet, just some testing because I have no place to mount it yet.

     

     

    Dan

     

    Sent: Wednesday, November 19, 2014 8:17 PM

    Subject: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

     

     

    Hello Everyone,

    I am looking for a touchscreen HMI unit which would be a good fit for a KFlop/SnapAmp-controlled lathe. Has anyone come across one that you would recommend?

    What kind of features should I watch for with regard to connectivity?

    Thanks,
    David.



     

     

     

    Group: DynoMotion Message: 10531 From: Tom Kerekes Date: 11/20/2014
    Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
    Hi Adrian,

    Could you give more details on your application?  If or how often would the pattern change?  How complex would the Pattern be?  Are you capable of writing a Windows Program to send the Pattern to KFLOP via USB?  What is your background?

    Regards
    TK

    Group: DynoMotion Message: 10532 From: Adrian Balan Date: 11/20/2014
    Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
    Attachments :

      Hi TK,

       

      The job requirements is to change the path, that consists of lines and arcs,  once in a while. My background is in electronics, I know  a bit of C ( C for microcontrollers ) but finding someone to help me with a windows program won't be a problem if  I can define very well the requirements. I am thinking of a KFLOP ( microcontroller) interface,  to be able to transfer the path info from an external memory, like USB or SD card.

      Will be this approach a good one or is it to much headache for something that can be done with a cheap PC ?

       

      Thanks,

      Adrian

       

      From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com [mailto:DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com]
      Sent: November 20, 2014 1:46 PM
      To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
      Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

       

       

      Hi Adrian,

       

      Could you give more details on your application?  If or how often would the pattern change?  How complex would the Pattern be?  Are you capable of writing a Windows Program to send the Pattern to KFLOP via USB?  What is your background?

       

      Regards

      TK

       


      From: "'Adrian Balan' adrian@... [DynoMotion]" <DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com>
      To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
      Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2014 10:31 AM
      Subject: RE: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

       

       

      Hi TK,

       

      That is a good news for me.  I have a project for a Automatic Glue Applicator and it will be excellent if  the path can be loaded through USB/RS232 interface and run without   any additional hardware (PC & monitor). So, could you be more detailed about how you can run a simple app direct from KFLOP?

       

      Thanks,

      Adrian

       

       

      From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com [mailto:DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com]
      Sent: November 20, 2014 12:20 PM
      To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
      Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

       

       

      Hi David,

       

      I think you need a Windows PC for your application (rather than a PLC type HMI).  Our GCode Interpreter, Trajectory Planner, Coordinated Motion Libraries, KMotionCNC GUI, and the TeachMotion Program you use all currently require to run on a Microsoft Windows PC.  KFLOP is capable of running in stand-alone mode without a PC for some simpler applications but I don't think that applies to you.

       

      I'd suggest a Windows PC with a reasonably sized touch screen monitor.  I had a W8 Laptop that had a Keyboard Failure.  I found that I could operate everything quite nicely with the pop-up on-screen keyboard.

       

      Let us know what you decide and how it works out.

       

      Regards

      TK

       


      From: "Michael Rosenfield mrosenfield@... [DynoMotion]" <DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com>
      To: "DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com" <dynomotion@yahoogroups.com>
      Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2014 7:21 AM
      Subject: RE: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

       

       

      David,
      I'm a little rusty on this - have to wake up the old brain cells!
      The KFlop itself doesn't specifically need a pc (after it has been configured) but it does need something to tell it what to do.
      So, for the milling application, something needs to organize the motion commands and then send them to the KFlop.
      For that, I use DynoMotion's KMotionCNC software, which runs on the PC. Lots of people use another PC-based set of software called Mach3.
      Both of these allow custom routines to be fed to the KFlop, and both allow varying amounts of customization to the operating console display screen, which is the PC monitor.
      The beauty of the KFlop is that it can be easily customized for any application, as long as you have someone to write the software for it.
      For common machine tools, many people have already written this, so there's a lot out there to use.
      Dynomotion's tech support is second to none, and the user group is also fantastic.
       
      KMotionCNC supports custom routines with a screen button press, and they are very straightforward to implement, as long as you can do some C programming. As I said, lots of help is available in this area!
      Customizing the screen look of KMotionCNC is more limited (as of a year ago; I haven't looked at any changes since then) unless you want to do some heavy C programming under Windows. But I found it more than adequate for dealing with my mill.
       
      Of course, the HMI is just another computer that has been pre-programmed to make user-customization of the look very easy. I looked into one for my mill, but I found them to be very expensive - close to $1000, as I recall. I ended up finding a used touch-screen monitor on EBay for $250, and although it is not as compact as many of the HMI's, functionally it is perfect.
      One still needs a keyboard for the PC for some applications - especially PC maintenance and file handling - but it's generally not used while making parts.
       
      A bit long winded, but I hope this helps!
       
      Michael
       

       


      To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
      From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
      Date: Thu, 20 Nov 2014 06:26:58 -0500
      Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

       

      Hi Michael,

      I wonder if the PC is the key. Does KFlop need the PC to run custom routines? I do use a couple of Windows based special programs.

      Thanks,
      David.

      On 11/19/2014 10:46 PM, Michael Rosenfield mrosenfield@... [DynoMotion] wrote:

       

       

      I am using a touch-screen monitor with the PC for the kflop on my 3-axis mill.
      I'm running KMotionCNC, and the whole thing is a very simple setup and works great!
       
      Michael Rosenfield
       


      To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
      From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
      Date: Wed, 19 Nov 2014 21:29:03 -0600
      Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

       

      I would think any that allow you to use RS232 Modbus RTU at a compatible data rate could be made to work. Without knowing your experience in C programming or programming industrial controls it might be steep learning curve, or it might be a piece of cake for you.

       

      I have a KFLOP/KANALOG connected to a Automation Direct Do-More PLC and that is connected to a Automation Direct C-More Micro 6” HMI. I am using this setup because the price was right. I would use a Automation Direct CLICK PLC if I were to be buying the parts new. I am doing this because I needed additional I/O and the PLC currently has 4 serial ports and is plenty fast to hand being the “middle man”. I am not using the HMI for any functions yet, just some testing because I have no place to mount it yet.

       

       

      Dan

       

      Sent: Wednesday, November 19, 2014 8:17 PM

      Subject: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

       

       

      Hello Everyone,

      I am looking for a touchscreen HMI unit which would be a good fit for a KFlop/SnapAmp-controlled lathe. Has anyone come across one that you would recommend?

      What kind of features should I watch for with regard to connectivity?

      Thanks,
      David.


       

       

       

       

      Group: DynoMotion Message: 10533 From: Tom Kerekes Date: 11/20/2014
      Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
      Hi Adrian,

      You didn't really answer how complex the pattern would be.  How many lines and arcs would be required to describe the path?   Would the Lines and Arcs be sufficiently long such that the acceleration/decelleration could be performed entirely within one Line or Arc?  Or would more complicated trajectory planning be required?

      KFLOP has ~ 1MByte of Flash memory.  Would that be sufficient to describe the path? 

      KFLOP is a USB client.  It isn't a Host that can read USB Thumb Drives.  You might write a PC program to download an Flash the pattern data to KFLOP's memory.

      You might look at the example CoordMotionInKFLOPTest.c

      I recall one user made a Cake Decorating machine that was repeatedly used to dispense "Happy Birthday" onto cakes.  He used a trick where he used KMotionCNC to download the motion to KFLOP's Coordinated motion Buffer and run the pattern once.  He then simply Flashed an image of the Coordinated Motion Buffer Memory.  On the next Power Up cycle he just restored the image.

      Regards
      TK

      Group: DynoMotion Message: 10534 From: David Stevenson Date: 11/21/2014
      Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
      Thanks very much to everyone.

      It looks like I had better stick to the PC and I will certainly let you know what I come up with.

      Best regards,
      David.

      On 11/20/2014 12:19 PM, Tom Kerekes tk@... [DynoMotion] wrote:
       
      Hi David,

      I think you need a Windows PC for your application (rather than a PLC type HMI).  Our GCode Interpreter, Trajectory Planner, Coordinated Motion Libraries, KMotionCNC GUI, and the TeachMotion Program you use all currently require to run on a Microsoft Windows PC.  KFLOP is capable of running in stand-alone mode without a PC for some simpler applications but I don't think that applies to you.

      I'd suggest a Windows PC with a reasonably sized touch screen monitor.  I had a W8 Laptop that had a Keyboard Failure.  I found that I could operate everything quite nicely with the pop-up on-screen keyboard.

      Let us know what you decide and how it works out.

      Regards
      TK

      Group: DynoMotion Message: 10535 From: Adrian Balan Date: 11/21/2014
      Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
      Attachments :

        Hi  TK,

         

        That's a good news. My application is less complex than a "Happy Birthday" text, so it is possible and I will start experimenting.

         

        Thanks for guidance and support,

        Adrian

         

         

         

        From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com [mailto:DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com]
        Sent: November 20, 2014 7:53 PM
        To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
        Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

         

        Hi Adrian,



        You didn't really answer how complex the pattern would be.  How many lines and arcs would be required to describe the path?   Would the Lines and Arcs be sufficiently long such that the acceleration/decelleration could be performed entirely within one Line or Arc?  Or would more complicated trajectory planning be required?



        KFLOP has ~ 1MByte of Flash memory.  Would that be sufficient to describe the path? 



        KFLOP is a USB client.  It isn't a Host that can read USB Thumb Drives.  You might write a PC program to download an Flash the pattern data to KFLOP's memory.



        You might look at the example CoordMotionInKFLOPTest.c



        I recall one user made a Cake Decorating machine that was repeatedly used to dispense "Happy Birthday" onto cakes.  He used a trick where he used KMotionCNC to download the motion to KFLOP's Coordinated motion Buffer and run the pattern once.  He then simply Flashed an image of the Coordinated Motion Buffer Memory.  On the next Power Up cycle he just restored the image.



        Regards

        TK

         


        From: "'Adrian Balan' adrian@... [DynoMotion]" <DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com>
        To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
        Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2014 11:46 AM
        Subject: RE: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

         

        Hi TK,

         

        The job requirements is to change the path, that consists of lines and arcs,  once in a while. My background is in electronics, I know  a bit of C ( C for microcontrollers ) but finding someone to help me with a windows program won't be a problem if  I can define very well the requirements. I am thinking of a KFLOP ( microcontroller) interface,  to be able to transfer the path info from an external memory, like USB or SD card.

        Will be this approach a good one or is it to much headache for something that can be done with a cheap PC ?

         

        Thanks,

        Adrian

         

         

        From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com [mailto:DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com]
        Sent: November 20, 2014 1:46 PM
        To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
        Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

         

        Hi Adrian,

         

        Could you give more details on your application?  If or how often would the pattern change?  How complex would the Pattern be?  Are you capable of writing a Windows Program to send the Pattern to KFLOP via USB?  What is your background?

         

        Regards

        TK

         


        From: "'Adrian Balan' adrian@... [DynoMotion]" <DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com>
        To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
        Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2014 10:31 AM
        Subject: RE: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

         

        Hi TK,

         

        That is a good news for me.  I have a project for a Automatic Glue Applicator and it will be excellent if  the path can be loaded through USB/RS232 interface and run without   any additional hardware (PC & monitor). So, could you be more detailed about how you can run a simple app direct from KFLOP?

         

        Thanks,

        Adrian

         

         

        From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com [mailto:DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com]
        Sent: November 20, 2014 12:20 PM
        To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
        Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

         

        Hi David,

         

        I think you need a Windows PC for your application (rather than a PLC type HMI).  Our GCode Interpreter, Trajectory Planner, Coordinated Motion Libraries, KMotionCNC GUI, and the TeachMotion Program you use all currently require to run on a Microsoft Windows PC.  KFLOP is capable of running in stand-alone mode without a PC for some simpler applications but I don't think that applies to you.

         

        I'd suggest a Windows PC with a reasonably sized touch screen monitor.  I had a W8 Laptop that had a Keyboard Failure.  I found that I could operate everything quite nicely with the pop-up on-screen keyboard.

         

        Let us know what you decide and how it works out.

         

        Regards

        TK

         


        From: "Michael Rosenfield mrosenfield@... [DynoMotion]" <DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com>
        To: "DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com" <dynomotion@yahoogroups.com>
        Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2014 7:21 AM
        Subject: RE: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

         

        David,
        I'm a little rusty on this - have to wake up the old brain cells!
        The KFlop itself doesn't specifically need a pc (after it has been configured) but it does need something to tell it what to do.
        So, for the milling application, something needs to organize the motion commands and then send them to the KFlop.
        For that, I use DynoMotion's KMotionCNC software, which runs on the PC. Lots of people use another PC-based set of software called Mach3.
        Both of these allow custom routines to be fed to the KFlop, and both allow varying amounts of customization to the operating console display screen, which is the PC monitor.
        The beauty of the KFlop is that it can be easily customized for any application, as long as you have someone to write the software for it.
        For common machine tools, many people have already written this, so there's a lot out there to use.
        Dynomotion's tech support is second to none, and the user group is also fantastic.
         
        KMotionCNC supports custom routines with a screen button press, and they are very straightforward to implement, as long as you can do some C programming. As I said, lots of help is available in this area!
        Customizing the screen look of KMotionCNC is more limited (as of a year ago; I haven't looked at any changes since then) unless you want to do some heavy C programming under Windows. But I found it more than adequate for dealing with my mill.
         
        Of course, the HMI is just another computer that has been pre-programmed to make user-customization of the look very easy. I looked into one for my mill, but I found them to be very expensive - close to $1000, as I recall. I ended up finding a used touch-screen monitor on EBay for $250, and although it is not as compact as many of the HMI's, functionally it is perfect.
        One still needs a keyboard for the PC for some applications - especially PC maintenance and file handling - but it's generally not used while making parts.
         
        A bit long winded, but I hope this helps!
         
        Michael
         

         


        To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
        From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
        Date: Thu, 20 Nov 2014 06:26:58 -0500
        Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

        Hi Michael,

        I wonder if the PC is the key. Does KFlop need the PC to run custom routines? I do use a couple of Windows based special programs.

        Thanks,
        David.

        On 11/19/2014 10:46 PM, Michael Rosenfield mrosenfield@... [DynoMotion] wrote:

         

         

        I am using a touch-screen monitor with the PC for the kflop on my 3-axis mill.
        I'm running KMotionCNC, and the whole thing is a very simple setup and works great!
         
        Michael Rosenfield
         


        To: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
        From: DynoMotion@yahoogroups.com
        Date: Wed, 19 Nov 2014 21:29:03 -0600
        Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

        I would think any that allow you to use RS232 Modbus RTU at a compatible data rate could be made to work. Without knowing your experience in C programming or programming industrial controls it might be steep learning curve, or it might be a piece of cake for you.

         

        I have a KFLOP/KANALOG connected to a Automation Direct Do-More PLC and that is connected to a Automation Direct C-More Micro 6” HMI. I am using this setup because the price was right. I would use a Automation Direct CLICK PLC if I were to be buying the parts new. I am doing this because I needed additional I/O and the PLC currently has 4 serial ports and is plenty fast to hand being the “middle man”. I am not using the HMI for any functions yet, just some testing because I have no place to mount it yet.

         

         

        Dan

         

        Sent: Wednesday, November 19, 2014 8:17 PM

        Subject: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

         

        Hello Everyone,

        I am looking for a touchscreen HMI unit which would be a good fit for a KFlop/SnapAmp-controlled lathe. Has anyone come across one that you would recommend?

        What kind of features should I watch for with regard to connectivity?

        Thanks,
        David.

         

         

         

         

         

        Group: DynoMotion Message: 10536 From: cnc_machines Date: 11/21/2014
        Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
        David,

        I am very happy using a Dell touch screen all in one PC. Looks very good and does all that I need.

        Both of these arms support the computer well - though I like the flexibility of the first one better.

        Inspiron 20 3000 Series (Intel®) Touch

         



        Ergotron MX Desk Mount LCD Arm - 45-214-026 - LCD & Television Mounts - CDW.com

         



        Ergotron Neo-Flex Extend LCD Arm - 45-235-194 - LCD & Television Mounts - CDW.com

         

        Thanks,

        Scott
        Group: DynoMotion Message: 10538 From: Tapio Larikka Date: 11/21/2014
        Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
        
        Hi David,
         
        I have Shuttle X50V2 all-in-one PCs on both of my mills running Mach3 and KFlop. They got big enough resistive touch screen so that screen buttons
        can be made big. Since they are Intel Atom based PCs I have stripped down WinXp's on them.
        If You happen to end up with one of these remember to install a scratch resistant screen cover/foil.
         
        Rgds,
        Tapio
           
        ----- Original Message -----
        Sent: Friday, November 21, 2014 1:35 PM
        Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

        Thanks very much to everyone.

        It looks like I had better stick to the PC and I will certainly let you know what I come up with.

        Best regards,
        David.

        On 11/20/2014 12:19 PM, Tom Kerekes tk@... [DynoMotion] wrote:
         
        Hi David,

        I think you need a Windows PC for your application (rather than a PLC type HMI).  Our GCode Interpreter, Trajectory Planner, Coordinated Motion Libraries, KMotionCNC GUI, and the TeachMotion Program you use all currently require to run on a Microsoft Windows PC.  KFLOP is capable of running in stand-alone mode without a PC for some simpler applications but I don't think that applies to you.

        I'd suggest a Windows PC with a reasonably sized touch screen monitor.  I had a W8 Laptop that had a Keyboard Failure.  I found that I could operate everything quite nicely with the pop-up on-screen keyboard.

        Let us know what you decide and how it works out.

        Regards
        TK

        Group: DynoMotion Message: 10540 From: David Stevenson Date: 11/21/2014
        Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
        Hi Tapio,

        I didn't even realize there was an all-in-one PC, but it looks like a great solution and they seem to be priced not to badly.

        Thanks for the pointer regarding the screen protector... sounds like great advice!

        Best regards,
        David.

        On 11/21/2014 11:02 AM, 'Tapio Larikka' tapio.larikka@... [DynoMotion] wrote:
         

        

        Hi David,
         
        I have Shuttle X50V2 all-in-one PCs on both of my mills running Mach3 and KFlop. They got big enough resistive touch screen so that screen buttons
        can be made big. Since they are Intel Atom based PCs I have stripped down WinXp's on them.
        If You happen to end up with one of these remember to install a scratch resistant screen cover/foil.
         
        Rgds,
        Tapio
           
        ----- Original Message -----
        Sent: Friday, November 21, 2014 1:35 PM
        Subject: Re: [DynoMotion] HMI Touchscreen for KFlop

         

        Thanks very much to everyone.

        It looks like I had better stick to the PC and I will certainly let you know what I come up with.

        Best regards,
        David.

        On 11/20/2014 12:19 PM, Tom Kerekes tk@... [DynoMotion] wrote:
         
        Hi David,

        I think you need a Windows PC for your application (rather than a PLC type HMI).  Our GCode Interpreter, Trajectory Planner, Coordinated Motion Libraries, KMotionCNC GUI, and the TeachMotion Program you use all currently require to run on a Microsoft Windows PC.  KFLOP is capable of running in stand-alone mode without a PC for some simpler applications but I don't think that applies to you.

        I'd suggest a Windows PC with a reasonably sized touch screen monitor.  I had a W8 Laptop that had a Keyboard Failure.  I found that I could operate everything quite nicely with the pop-up on-screen keyboard.

        Let us know what you decide and how it works out.

        Regards
        TK

        Group: DynoMotion Message: 10543 From: David Stevenson Date: 11/21/2014
        Subject: Re: HMI Touchscreen for KFlop
        Hi Scott,

        That looks like the ideal solution for me. Do you use it with a keyboard?

        Thanks very much!

        Best regards,
        David.

        On 11/21/2014 10:06 AM, cnc_machines@... [DynoMotion] wrote:
         

        David,

        I am very happy using a Dell touch screen all in one PC. Looks very good and does all that I need.

        Both of these arms support the computer well - though I like the flexibility of the first one better.

        Inspiron 20 3000 Series (Intel®) Touch

         



        Ergotron MX Desk Mount LCD Arm - 45-214-026 - LCD & Television Mounts - CDW.com

         



        Ergotron Neo-Flex Extend LCD Arm - 45-235-194 - LCD & Television Mounts - CDW.com

         

        Thanks,

        Scott