v2.2.0

Critical patch

Port change

In the previous update, we switched the port that was used for sending data from the Console to SmartBench (from ttyS0 to ttyAMA0). 

We have changed back to using the original port (ttyS0), as the other port occasionally causes issues, such as file checks getting stuck at 100% for large files, and random G-Code errors. 

This was a rare occurrence that most people would not have been affected by. 

Patches

  • Correction to language names: all instances of Deutsche corrected to Deutsch, and all instances of Polskie corrected to Polski.

  • Previously, if you “stopped” homing too early, it would clear the homing screen, but then a scheduled event would continue the homing sequence. This has now been patched. 

Technical

These are the more technical changes that we have put into this release. While they are important for improving SmartBench, there’s definitely some programming jargon in this section!

Platform compatibility

As we look to update the Console computer going forwards, we have updated the platform and package management infrastructure to cater to both the old and new versions (this also includes providing initial hooks for remote support). 

As a result of this change, this update might take longer to run than usual.

You may want to start the update at the end of your workday, when you have finished using the bench for a while. 

Length compatibility

Software has been updated to work with non-standard bench lengths. 

Handling for extra $ values and status information for firmware v2

  • Handling for $51, $53, and $54 GRBL settings.

  • Handling for virtual limit alarms.

  • Handling for overload based on killtime.

Handling for 5 driver PCBs

  • Updated serial_connection module to parse status information from dual X drivers.

  • Updated calibration and tuning functions, including parameters and ranges to be optimal with 5 driver PCBs.

Sequential streaming improvements

  • Add 1 second dwell to sequential streaming, for $ commands/settings, and prior to soft reset.

  • Fix for rare sequential streaming multi-thread bug. 

Patches

  • Ensure that if no pins are triggered, then the limits are set to false: if the dust shoe pin (G) isn't in the status, then there's no "Pn" block - this meant that limits weren’t always clearing properly if the dust shoe was in.  

  • Ensure that $22 is set before $20 when GRBL settings are baked.

  • Serial reconnection function was recreating the serial_connection class every time: now it just re-establishes the connection. 

  • Stabilising fixes in calibration and tuning functions to reduce mis-timing causing GRBL errors.

Integrated production tools

QC and calibration jigs

  • Improved UI, including new screen for setting currents and thermal coefficients

  • Improved QC parameter ranges

  • QC check raw load values during motor chip test, instead of adjusted

  • Addition of recorded calibration checks

  • Fixes to warranty QC screens

  • Handling for 5 driver PCBs

Final test 

  • UI improvements to speed up parts of test procedure

  • Improved data sending

  • Various patches, including removing source of occasional GRBL errors during overnight test

New jigs and test screens

  • Z Head mechanics jig: new application for plotting load along the Z axis.

  • Measurement screen: new screen that sets up measurement in background, and allows a user to plot recorded values (such as feed and axis load) against each other. 

  • Stall jig: new screen to run an experiment to test stall detection.

Technical notes

Git tag: v2.2.0

Official release name: ShortPort

Git commit: 862e494


 

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