Rockwell Automation 8520 9/Series CNC Integration Maintenance Manual Documentation Set - Manual (Page 229)

Section 4C
Connecting the 4-axis Servo Module
4C-31
Use the Adaptive Depth probe feature to enable an adaptive depth probe
that monitors tool depth relative to the actual part surface. This feature
allows:
a more flexible part mounting system (small changes to part size or part
mounting do not require reprogramming of the machine or station)
greater accuracy with a less accurate machine drive system (tool
position is relative to the part surface rather than the machine home)
a retroactive change in axis positioning resolution (feedback for axis
positioning switches between the normal axis encoder and the adaptive
depth probe once the probe is triggered).
The adaptive depth probe is wired like any A quad B rotary encoder. It is
connected to one of the controls feedback ports. Refer to page 7A-1 for
details on cabling requirements for a feedback device. 4C-23 lists
specifications for an encoder. These same specifications apply to your
adaptive depth probe.
If you are using the adaptive depth probe to close the position loop
(selected in AMP) the maximum axis speed calculations from 4C-23 also
applies. Refer to your AMP reference manual for details on other
configuration required to operate using an adaptive depth probe.
In AMP the adaptive depth probe is assigned an axis name. Using the axis
monitor page for that axis (see page 15A-35) you can view the current
following error on the adaptive depth probe and the adaptive depth probe
position relative to zero. The probe is zeroed automatically at power up or
through PAL.
END OF SECTION
4C.9
Adaptive Depth Probing