The TigerFence is an automated push fence system designed to enhance precision and efficiency in woodworking and other material processing applications. It functions as a versatile positioning device, moving material to a precise stop position for cutting, drilling, or other operations, ensuring fast and accurate results every time.
Function Description:
The TigerFence operates as a programmable stop system, allowing users to input desired lengths (decimal or fractional) for material processing. It features a standard controller that facilitates manual movement, calculation, incrementing, jogging, and the creation and management of part lists (Pusher, Set Point, and Pattern lists). The system can automatically adjust for kerf and offers dynamic optimization for maximum material yield. Its core function is to position material accurately, reducing manual measurement errors and increasing production speed.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Requirements:
- 120V with a 15A circuit breaker.
- 208/230/240V with a 20A (USA) / 16A (EU) circuit breaker.
- Requires a dedicated circuit.
- Accuracy: +/-.003" (0.08mm).
- Working Length: 51" or 70" (1.29m - 1.77m).
- Drive Type: 3/4" Hi-Lead Screw.
- Mounting: Can be mounted via a bracket or directly to the tabletop using a template. Requires a flat, smooth mounting surface at least 3" (75mm) high with 2" (50mm) back-side clearance for template mounting.
- Controller: TigerStop® Standard Controller (CON5) with a power cable (PC) and data cable (CC5-XX).
- Motor Cover: S0601-1.
- Body Handle: F2232.
- Ripping Fence: XA0912-X.
- Carriage Assembly: Includes Clamp Bar (M0477-1), M10x16mm Shoulder Bolt (F1094), and Limit-Switch Post (F2243).
- Mounting Hardware: Various bolts, washers, and nuts (e.g., 5/16"-18 T-Bolt (F0177), 5/16" Washer (F1670), 5/16" Locking Washer (F1675), 5/16"-18 Hex Nut (F0410), M8x30mm Socket-Head Screw (F1945), M8x35mm T-Bolt (F0184), M10 Locking Washer (F7690), M8 Hex Nut (F7581)).
- Controller Stand Assembly: Includes Controller Stand Top (M1803), Square Tube (M1808), Round Tube (M1807), Controller Stand Base Bracket (M10070), various screws (M6x14mm, M6x10mm, M8x50mm, M8x45mm Socket-Head/Hex-Head), Spacer (F6702), and M8 Flange Nut (F0419).
Usage Features:
- Enable Code: The TigerFence requires an enable code, obtained after warranty registration, to function.
- Ready Screen: The primary interface for all functions, displaying current and next positions, and offering soft key prompts for various operations.
- Manual Movement: Allows direct input of decimal or fractional lengths for precise positioning.
- Calculator Function: Enables simple math problems directly on the controller to determine stop positions.
- Increment Function: A push-feed mode that steps the TigerFence through a series of movements, compensating for kerf.
- Jog Function: Manual jogging of the TigerFence in either direction for fine adjustments.
- Quick Calibration: A shortcut to calibrate the system, requiring measurement of a processed sample.
- Safe Zone Setting: Defines a minimum safe distance from the blade.
- Set Units: Allows switching between inches and metric measurement systems.
- Preset Function: Stores up to 100 programmable hot keys for quick access to common lengths.
- Part Lists:
- Pusher List: Guides the user to push stock material incrementally into the tool, indicating when new stock is needed.
- Set Point List: Acts as a stop, using absolute values from a zero point.
- Pattern List: Processes a repeating pattern of parts from a single stock length.
- Supports dynamic optimization for material yield.
- Password Protection: Access to menu options and certain functions (e.g., calibration) can be password-protected using the machine's serial number.
Maintenance Features:
- Daily Maintenance:
- Clean all dust and debris from drive areas.
- Check all exposed cabling for damage.
- Check and calibrate the system if necessary.
- Quarterly Maintenance:
- Run the drive test to ensure Drv, MxP, and MxN values are below 15,000, indicating proper installation and movement.
- Yearly Maintenance:
- Inspect and replace the drive belt if necessary.
- Ensure the drive belt is tight.
- Belt Tensioning: Instructions provided for removing the belt cover, loosening motor mount bolts, pulling down the motor assembly to tighten the belt, and re-tightening the bolts.
- Drive Test: Measures the difficulty of movement; values above 15,000 indicate improper installation or excessive wear.
- Maintenance Log: A dedicated section in the manual for recording important settings and maintenance activities.
- Default Parameter Values: Appendix A provides a comprehensive list of default settings for various parameters, useful for troubleshooting and configuration.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides guidance on issues like incorrect jog direction (using 'Jog Reverse' setting) and high drive test values (indicating installation problems).
The TigerFence is designed for industrial environments, emphasizing safety with warnings about moving parts, electrical hazards, and the importance of proper installation and operation by qualified personnel. It is a robust and intelligent solution for automating material positioning, aiming to deliver consistent accuracy and improve workflow efficiency.