This low-cost pen plotter by Instructables user “tuenhidiy” is a build that runs on fixed belts with stepper motors concealed in PVC fittings, and is controlled by an Arduino UNO Rev3 board, which reads G-code from an external microSD card.
The build has proven popular, and even featured on the Arduino blog earlier this month.
A pen plotter in a CNC device that can quickly and accurately draw graphics or text based on a computer’s input, raising and lowering a writing instrument – usually a pen – across a flat surface to create the image. Pen plotters used to be used to print on large paper, typically for things like architectural blueprints and circuit diagrams, but these days the technology has been superseded in most professional applications. Pen plotters do remain a curiosity for technology enthusiasts, with projects like tuenhidiy’s highlighting their relative accessibility for tinkerers.
The 13-step build process (14 including testing) is extensively outlined on Instructables, but be warned: it is by no means for beginners. It’s not that you’ll necessarily need an engineering degree, either, but those with two left hands may find themselves having trouble.
The process starts with constructing a base consisting of PVC pipes and a wooden plate, as well as steel linear shafts on which the X and Y axes run. From there, those you’ll need to create XY stepper motor mounts – and mount stepper motors to them – use hose clamps to tighten timing belts of the X and Y axes, and solder contact pins for, then mount, limit switches.
All of this, and we’re not even halfway through the actual build, not to mention programming the controller and creating the G-code. Depending on your level of expertise, this may sound like a headache or an enticing challenge. Regardless, you’ll have your work cut out for you.
That said, there’s no denying the efficacy of the end result. A YouTube video showing the pen plotter in action – and plenty of still images of the “texts, funny animals, and portraits of pretty girls” tuenhidiy has used it to create – are seriously impressive, especially for a build consisting predominantly of low-cost parts and components.
If you feel like you’re up for it, check out the plotter’s Instructables page, where you’ll find a step-by-step guide, a parts list, and more.
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License: The text of "Build This Low-Cost Arduino CNC Pen Plotter" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.