If you have an old inkjet printer gathering dust in your office or home and fancy building your own vector graphics plotter, you might be interested in this project created by YouTube user The Enchanted Beer to create a Vector Graphics plotter.
The SVG plotter has been created using an old Epsom inkjet printer frame together with two stepper motors, motor driver circuitry as well as a CD player laser head moving mechanism. This ingenious repurposing of old technology not only breathes new life into obsolete hardware but also provides a fascinating project for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists. Check out the fully working device in the video after the jump to learn more and see it in action.
Building the SVG Plotter
The process of building the SVG plotter involves several key components and steps. The old Epsom inkjet printer frame serves as the foundation, providing a sturdy and precise base for the plotter. The two stepper motors are crucial for controlling the movement of the plotting head, allowing for accurate and detailed vector graphics to be drawn. These motors are controlled by motor driver circuitry, which interprets commands from the software and translates them into precise movements.
Additionally, the CD player laser head moving mechanism is repurposed to move the pen or drawing tool along the X and Y axes. This mechanism is known for its precision and reliability, making it an excellent choice for this type of project. The combination of these components results in a highly functional and versatile SVG plotter.
Software and Functionality
The software driving the SVG plotter has been significantly modified to be compatible with Processing 2.1.1. This ensures that the plotter can handle a variety of vector graphic formats and commands. The updated code now supports “translate” transformations and “rect” paths, which are essential for creating complex and detailed drawings. While “polygon” paths and “matrix” transformations are not yet implemented, they may be added in future updates, expanding the plotter’s capabilities even further.
“The code has been significantly changed to be compatible with Processing 2.1.1. Also, some functionality has been added. It can now support “translate” transformations and “rect” paths. “polygon” paths and “matrix” transformations are not yet implemented, but might be eventually. The hardware has been slightly modified: better pen holder, removed unnecessary resistors”
The hardware has also seen some improvements. A better pen holder has been designed to ensure that the drawing tool remains stable and accurate during operation. Unnecessary resistors have been removed from the circuitry, streamlining the design and improving overall performance.
To learn more about the SVG plotter and how to go about making your very own, jump over to the Junk + Arduino website for more details.
This project not only showcases the potential of repurposing old technology but also serves as an excellent learning experience for those interested in electronics, programming, and mechanical design. By following the detailed instructions and utilizing readily available components, anyone can create their own SVG plotter and explore the world of vector graphics.
Source: Hack A Day
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
