Features list for control interface

[Jaknil]

I think it would be good to collect and group the features we want or need to see for controlling the shopbot at bitraf. This is a thread to collect and discuss importance of different features. Try describing what a feature does instead of what it doesn't do, it makes it easier to come up with solutions.

How to implement should be discussed in separate threads.

Bare bones necessary features:

• Unsafe use is discouraged (safety bar, chuck tool detector)
• Emergency stop
• Simple (re)boot procedure (ex blinking reset, informative pop ups or checklists)
• Spindle warmup routine
• Access gcode file
• Load gcode file
• Homing
• Probing
• Run Job
• Move away from work area (several positions or free jogging)
• Interface/special settings can be reset to defaults

Highly appreciated features:

• Unsafe use is physically hindered (Profesional safety and safety wall ala Fellesverkstedet) (This should be moved to bare bones category because: It significantly reduces risk during use. Reduces liabililty for upgrade team. Software, BOM and wiring procedure is already solved. No need to interface with spindle chuck tool sensor and safety bar sensor, only contactor aux pin needs to be monitored. Makes a good statment about machine safety importance)
• Pause / Resume
• Preview of the toolpath
• Home and probing is done automatically
• Go to toolchange position
• Easy to understand interface (only relevant information present)
• Persistent interface (no conflicting windows)
• Robust, free from disconnects, errors and crashes.

Appreciated features:

• Toolpath is screened for errors
• Material thickness verification
• Bit size verification
• Uses a straight GRBL post
• Advanced features available to power users
• Error interpretation and pop up suggestions
• Rough absolute positioning by X and Y distance sensors on top of Z axis. (Can make it faster and more machine friendly to home x and y. Will make it possible to go to toolchange position without homing X and Y.)
• Gantry autosquaring upon homing (will increase precision and types of jobs possible. Can be solved with secondary Y axis limit switch, a transistor on Y2 motor step signals and custom gcode start script with octoprint)

Nice to have feaures:

• Toolpath is projected onto work area
• User is guides through steps (load file, toolchange, error handling)

Please add features and post arguments for which should move categories.