imCHITRA v 1.0 is a first generation computer-controlled 2 Axis Drawing Robot (Pen Plotter/XY Plotter Machine) based on Arduino and Ramps 1.4 kit which is capable of drawing or writing on any flat surface. imCHITRA Machine frame is based on OpenBuilds ACRO system, which uses V-Slot aluminum profiles to achieve high precision. Same machine is also customized for Laser engraving and cutting purpose.
Softwares used:
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Arduino Marlin firmware:
Customized version of Turnkey K40 Laser Arduino for RAMPS 1.4
https://github.com/TurnkeyTyranny/buildlog-lasercutter-marlin (Modified for Laser and Pen Plotter use)
Adobe Illustrator for Vector drawing:
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Lines are drawn on Image (Image tracing method)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbbQl2sU-ag
https://www.instructables.com/How-to-Turn-Your-Photo-Into-Cartoon-in-4-Steps-Usi/
https://www.agitraining.com/adobe/illustrator/tutorials/tracing-images-in-illustrator-cc
Inkscape software v 0.91
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Python Plugin for inkscape:
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This plug-in is generating gcode which is compatible with customized version of Kimbra Marlin firmware for RAMPS 1.4
The plug-in generates GCODE file, customized version of https://github.com/TurnkeyTyranny/laser-gcode-exporter-inkscape-plugin
TurnKeyExporter Servo based XY Plotter, special thanks to them and other developers modified for Laser and Pen Plotter use.
GCODE sender software:
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Pronterface v 1.6.0 to send GCODE data to imCHITRA plotter
Electronic components:
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Arduino Mega 2560 + RAMPS 1.4
3xStepper motors 17-NEMA series
3xA4988 Stepper Motor Driver
LCD Display RepRapDiscount Smart Controller
PSU - 12V/24V
Servo Motor SG90 for lift the pen up and down
12V 1.06W Cooling Fan
Physical body:
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Based on OpenBuilds V-Slot profiles (Assembly reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_0iWUdHIJA)
Work Area - 400 x 400 mm
Physical weight: 3 Kg (excluding plywood chasis)
V-Slot Aluminium Profiles
V-Slot Wheels
GT Timing Belts and Pulleys
12V LED Strip for lighting up the machine
3D Printed Pen Holder
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Used 3D Printed pen holder
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2459624
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HciNR-tskwQ
3D Printer used:
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ANET A8 (https://www.gearbest.com/3d-printers-3d-printer-kits/pp_337314.html)