Makers Justin and his friend Brett have created a fantastic DIY joystick-controlled laser drawing machine powered by an Arduino development board. The framework has been constructed from laser-cut wood and other parts, totaling under $20 to complete the project. Check out the video below to learn more.
“In between studying breaks during midterm week, my friend Brett and I designed and built this machine that utilizes a laser and mirror system to draw luminescent light trails, controllable via a 3D printed joystick. The main goal was to use drawing techniques and materials people wouldn’t typically associate with drawing while instilling a sense of intrigue in the user.”
Project Overview and Components
The project is an excellent example of how creativity and technology can come together to produce something both functional and visually captivating. The laser drawing machine uses a combination of mirrors and a laser to create intricate light patterns on a surface. The joystick, which is 3D printed, allows for precise control over the laser’s movements, making it possible to draw complex shapes and designs.
The Arduino development board serves as the brain of the machine, processing input from the joystick and controlling the laser and mirrors accordingly. The use of laser-cut wood for the framework not only keeps the cost low but also adds a touch of elegance to the overall design. The entire setup is powered by a simple power supply, making it easy to assemble and use.
Building Your Own Laser Drawing Machine
If you are interested in building your very own laser drawing machine, all the laser cutting plans for the framework and required pieces are available to download from the Instructables project page. The instructions are detailed and easy to follow, making this a great project for both beginners and experienced makers.
To get started, you will need the following components:
- Arduino development board
- Laser module
- Mirrors
- 3D printed joystick
- Laser-cut wood pieces
- Power supply
Once you have gathered all the components, you can begin assembling the framework. The laser-cut wood pieces fit together like a puzzle, making it easy to construct a sturdy base for the machine. Next, you will need to mount the mirrors and laser module in place, ensuring that they are aligned correctly to produce the desired light patterns.
The final step is to connect the Arduino board and joystick to the laser module and mirrors. The Arduino code, which is also available on the Instructables project page, will allow you to control the laser’s movements using the joystick. Once everything is connected and powered on, you can start experimenting with different designs and patterns.
This project not only provides a fun and engaging way to learn about electronics and programming but also results in a unique and mesmerizing piece of art. Whether you are a student looking for a creative project or a hobbyist interested in exploring new technologies, this laser drawing machine is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.
Source: AB
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