winder
Add ability to set spindle direction in Designer Tool-Setup pane
Description
At the moment you can define a number of tool settings in the tool designer but you cannot define the spindle direction.
This level of user control is important because different CNC bits require different spindle directions ( and depending on the machine configuration the spindle may be wired backwards.)
I propose that I add a combo box to allow the user to pick between M3,M4, and M5 to start the spindle. (The only reason why I am thinking of M5 is to support glass carving with drag bits such as: https://idcwoodcraft.com/products/stunning-detail-diamond-drag-engraving-bit-for-cnc-routers-1-4-shank )
Could you give an example on a bit using the other direction?`I don't think that's a thing..
A drag bit should not have running spindle at all.
M5 in gcode is normally 'stop spindle' where m3 is 'start spindle'
But if you set the spindle speed to 0 then the spindle wont start.
A better option would be to disable spindle to use it with for example drag knife or tusch or something similar that would require a passive spindle head.
M3 is used to provide a positive voltage to the spindle motor. M4 is used to provide a negative voltage to the spindle motor. (which will run the motor in the reverse direction.) M5 is used to used to stop the spindle.
Providing a M5 setting means that when changing to a drag bit you do not have to triple check your design to make sure the spindle does not start halfway.
CCW or LH bits are not super common but they have their uses: https://carbideprocessors.com/router-bits/straight-flute-router-bits/straight-left-hand-router-bits/