ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The satisfaction and euphoria that accompany the successful completion of any task
would be incomplete without the mentioning of the people whose constant guidance
and encouragement made it possible. We take pleasure in presenting before you,
our project, which is result of studied blend of both research and knowledge.

We express our earnest gratitude to our internal guide, Assistant Professor Rajat
Dutta, Department of MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, our project guide and Dr. Sukanta
Sarkar, HOD, dept. of ME, HIT-K for their constant support, encouragement and
guidance. We are grateful for their cooperation and valuable suggestions.
  Abstract
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines are widely used in the manufacturing
industry for precision cutting and engraving of various materials. With the
advancements in technology, CNC machines have become more accessible to
hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts. In this project, a CNC plotter machine based on the
Arduino microcontroller is developed.
The CNC plotter machine is designed to draw or engrave on a flat surface using a pen
or a cutting tool. The machine consists of a frame made of aluminium profiles,
stepper motors, a motor driver, belts, pulleys, and a pen holder or a cutting tool
holder. The Arduino microcontroller is used to control the movement of the motors
and the positioning of the pen or cutting tool.
The software used for controlling the CNC plotter machine is a customized version of
the open-source software Grbl. Grbl is a high-performance, low-cost CNC controller
that supports G-code commands. The G-code commands are generated using a
computer-aided design (CAD) software such as Inkscape, CorelDRAW, or AutoCAD.
The G-code commands are then sent to the Arduino microcontroller using a USB
cable.
The CNC plotter machine is capable of drawing or engraving on a variety of materials
such as paper, cardboard, vinyl, and wood. The machine has a working area of
300mm x 200mm, which is suitable for most hobbyist projects. The stepper motors
used in the machine have a resolution of 1.8 degrees per step, which provides a high
degree of accuracy and precision.
The CNC plotter machine can be used for a variety of projects such as creating
artwork, engraving designs on wood or metal, creating custom stickers, and even
PCB (Printed Circuit Board) milling. The machine is easy to use and can be operated
by anyone with basic knowledge of CAD software
 Introduction
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) pen plotters are precision drawing machines that can produce
intricate and detailed drawings, designs, and artworks. These devices are widely used in various
fields, including art, engineering, and education, to create accurate and visually appealing
illustrations. This report provides an overview of the CNC pen plotter project, its purpose, and a list
of parts required to build one.

 Purpose
The purpose of this project is to design and build a CNC pen plotter that can be controlled using a
computer or other input device. CNC pen plotters are popular among artists, engineers, and
hobbyists for their ability to produce intricate drawings, complex geometric shapes, and precise
diagrams. This project aims to create a low-cost and customizable pen plotter that can be used for
artistic and technical purposes.

 Project Components
 Mechanical Components

1. Frame: The frame provides structural support for the entire plotter. It can be constructed from
materials such as aluminum extrusions, acrylic, or wood. The frame should be rigid to ensure precise
pen movements.

2. Pen Holder: The pen holder securely holds the drawing pen and can be moved vertically to adjust
the pen's position on the drawing surface.

3. XY Motion System: This includes two stepper motors and linear motion components (such as
guide rails and belts) to control the movement of the pen across the X and Y axes.

4. Drawing Surface: The surface where the plotter creates drawings can be a piece of paper, a
whiteboard, or any other suitable material. It needs to be firmly attached to the plotter's frame.

5. Power Supply: Depending on the chosen components, you may need a power supply for the
stepper motors and other electronic components.

 Electronics Components
1. Microcontroller: A microcontroller (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi) is the brain of the CNC pen plotter.
It receives commands from a computer and controls the stepper motors accordingly.
2. Stepper Motor Drivers: Stepper motor drivers interface between the microcontroller and the
stepper motors, translating digital signals into precise motor movements.

3. Stepper Motors: Two stepper motors are used for controlling the X and Y axes' motion. NEMA 17
stepper motors are commonly used for pen plotters.

4. Belt and Pulley System: A system of belts, pulleys, and gears is used to transfer motion from the
stepper motors to the pen holder, allowing for precise control.

5. Limit Switches: Limit switches can be added to ensure that the plotter does not exceed its defined
workspace.

6. Control Software: You will need control software to send drawing instructions to the plotter.
Popular options include Grbl, CNC.js, or custom-written software.

 Assembly and Calibration

Once all the components are acquired, the assembly and calibration process involves building the
frame, attaching the motors and belts, mounting the pen holder, connecting the electronics, and
installing the control software. Calibration is essential to ensure that the plotter can accurately draw
the desired images. This includes configuring steps per millimeter, homing sequences, and other
settings in the control software.

Conclusion
Building a CNC pen plotter can be a rewarding and educational project for artists, engineers, and
enthusiasts interested in computer-controlled drawing machines. This report provides an overview
of the project's purpose and lists the essential parts required for the construction of a CNC pen
plotter. With the right components and careful assembly, you can create a versatile and precise
drawing tool for various applications.
WORKPLAN

 Research upon the previous models of similar technology that have been used in this product.

 Outline the hardware for the model along with the system control and process flow.

 Design & develop the structural frame & subsystems of the CNC and working of the system
model.

 Implement the design and program it to validate it’s function.

 Trials for the model in various conditions to check the efficiency of the setup and to make any
necessary improvements with respect to actual run.

 Enforce necessary changes after trial and then evaluate the performance of the model with
records.

 Perform the basic safety tests to ensure the safe operating of the model as well as its safety with
respect to the environment and people.

 Documentation and record keeping of the product and final report for the project.
 Parts & Cost Estimation ::
Sl. No. Description Qty. Unit Price Total Price(approx.)
1Linear rod M8 x 450mm 2 670.00 1340.00
2Linear rod M8 x 350mm 2 354.00 708.00
38 x15 x 45mm Linear Bearing 4 120.00 480.00
44 x 13 x 5mm Linear Bearing 5 150.00 750.00
512v Nema 17 stepper motors 2 300.00 600.00
6GT2 Timing belt and pulleys
7Micro servo 1 300.00 300.00
8Stepper drivers - TMC2208 2 150.00 300.00
9Contact switch 2 60.00 120.00
10Arduino CNC Shield 1 250.00 250.00
1130mm 5V Fan 1 150.00 150.00
1230cm long linear rail with block 1 4000.00 4000.00
13Electrical wire
1412v power supply - 2A or greater 1 650.00 650.00
15Barrel Connector - Female 1 20.00 20.00
166mm Idler Wheel - 3mm Bore 1 130.00 130.00
17Wooden panel to mount project at least 300.00 300.00
36x42cm
18 Screws & nut bolts
i. M5 x 25mm
ii. M3 x 18mm
iii. M3 x12mm
iv. M3 x 10mm
v. M3 x 6mm
vi. M3 Nuts
vii. M5 Nuts
viii. Short wood screws
Total 10,098.00

Design Details ::
 Preliminary design review done.
 Detailed design phase is going on. Some designed parts are attached below for reference

Fig 1 : Y axis rod

end
Fig 2 : X axis rod end
Fig 3 : Carriage top