Foamboard Plotter
Introduction
The aim of this exercise was to design a mechanism using linear actuator to draw a square without touching.
Procedure
In this exercise, three linear actuators were made using stepper motors and ball screws. These three linear actuators were assembled to form the x-y plane. The linear actuators were controlled using G code. A extruder motor was used to raise and lower the marker. This motion was along the z axis. Then, the G code was run to do the following actions in order:
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Take the marker to one of the vertices of the square.
Lower the marker so that the tip touches the paper.
Move 2 inches in the positive x direction, then 2 inches in the positive y direction, 2 inches in the negative x direction and then 2 inches in the negative y direction. A square can now be seen on the paper.
Lift the marker up.
Return to home position.