THIS IS NOT DONE; I AM STILL WORKING ON THE ATTACHMENTS FOR THE PEN AND LAZERS howerer i have attached the carage stl for you to modify and add to your own pen or lazer system. i will my take of the pen/lazer attachment when i can confirm its done and working
so far, all the rest works flawlessly for me
i am open to critisism on how to inprove this desing or things to add to it, posibbly even a version 2
or if you have your own lazer/pen system you would like featured, please dont hesitate to reach out
This DIY pen plotter/laser engraver is a budget-friendly and highly adaptable machine, perfect for hobbyists, makers, and anyone looking to explore the world of CNC drawing and engraving. This innovative device combines affordability with functionality, utilising 8mm linear bearings and NEMA 17 stepper motors to achieve precise and smooth movements across the workspace.
At the heart of the machine lies the Arduino Uno, a versatile microcontroller that serves as the central hub for controlling the stepper motors and executing the plotted or engraved designs. Paired with TMC2209 stepper motor drivers, the NEMA 17 motors move the pen or laser module with precision, ensuring consistent and accurate results.
For those looking to create a pen plotter, a simple pen holder can be attached to the moving part of the linear bearings. This allows the machine to draw intricate designs, patterns, and text with ease. Alternatively, by attaching a laser module, the machine can function as a laser engraver, capable of etching detailed images and patterns onto various materials such as wood, plastic, and leather.
To bring the machine to life, the GRBL firmware is ed to the Arduino Uno. This open-source firmware is widely used in CNC machines and provides a reliable and efficient way to interpret G-code commands. The G-code, which represents the design to be drawn or engraved, is sent to the Arduino via G-code sender software running on a computer such as LazerGRBL or chillyperrper.grbl.
Once the machine is assembled and the software is set up, s can begin the calibration process to ensure accurate movements and positioning. This involves fine-tuning the stepper motors and linear bearings to achieve optimal performance. With careful calibration, the machine can produce high-quality results, whether drawing with a pen or engraving with a laser.
Overall, the DIY pen plotter/laser engraver offers an engaging and educational project for anyone interested in CNC technology. By combining easily accessible components with the power of the Arduino Uno, this machine provides a cost-effective solution for creating detailed and precise designs, making it an excellent addition to any maker's toolkit.