Inductive Probe Edition

thingiverse

**update*** inadvertently uploaded the prototype mount... correct ABL mount uploaded. This project is a work in progress, and I take no responsibility for any damage it may cause to electronics or starting fires. This was made possible by adapting many online resources for use on the Gen L board. I'd like to thank Mertarauh, a legend in the field, for sharing his expertise: https://mertarauh.com/ (a must-read). The goal is to add an Inductive sensor/probe to the JGAurora A5. This is the prototype, and it's fully functional but still needs improvement. Step 1: The build surface Create a flexible/removable print surface by cutting a 12 by 24 inch thin sheet of cold rolled steel in half with shears (you'll get two). Cover each half with your preferred build surface. I used PEI on one and blue tape on the other. You can find the necessary materials at a big box home improvement store: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-12-in-x-2-ft-Cold-Rolled-Weldable-Steel-Sheet-Metal/3050447 This setup provides flexibility for testing different materials. You can clamp these on or use magnets, whichever suits your needs. Step 2: The probe Install the probe mount, insert the inductive probe, and upload the firmware. Unplug the old endstop and wire up your inductive probe according to the pictures. Step 3: Making it work Raise your Z axis a bit, give yourself some room, and carefully test your probe operation. Be prepared to shut down the power if the probe fails to stop the Z travel during testing. All is working if the probe triggers (LED light up) and the Z travel stops as expected when near metal objects (I used an old set of pliers). Now, use the touchscreen to slowly lower your nozzle to the build surface. A thick paper or business card is the correct distance. Adjust your probe in the mount to trigger at that height and tighten it down. Step 4: The Z offset Any z adjustments will occur in the starting Gcode of your slicer. You'll need to dial this in. Here's my starting gcode for reference: G28 ; Home all axis G29 ; Level the bed surface (auto bed level) G92 E0 ; Reset extruder length to zero G1 F200 E1 ; Extrude 1mm at 200mm/min G92 E0 ; Reset extruder length to zero M206 Z 1.5 ; Set Z offset to 1.5mm above print surface BOM: = Inductive probe NPN NO {LJ18A3-8-Z/BZ} or similar (NPN NO gets around the MKS Gen L internal pullup resistor) https://www.aliexpress.com/item/3-Wire-LJ18A3-8-Z-BX-8mm-LW-Approach-Inductive-Proximity-Sensor-NPN-NO-Switch-DC/32843128116.html = Diode 1N5338B is what I used, but according to the internet 1N4148 will also work https://www.microcenter.com/product/392683/1n5338b-51v-5-watt-zener-diode---5-pack = 3 pin connector {male} to build your plug (save your original plug in case you ever want to go back) I used an old servo cable had from a drone https://www.ebay.com/itm/New-RC-Servo-Extension-Cord-Lead-Wire-Receiver-Cable-Male-Female-Connectors/112959837197