Welcome to Our Community

Some features disabled for guests. Register Today.

Pen Plotter

Discussion in 'Other Builds' started by AREA, Sep 6, 2021.

  1. AREA

    AREA New
    Builder

    Joined:
    Aug 6, 2021
    Messages:
    5
    Likes Received:
    2
    Hello,

    I have a 60X40 (1510) ACRO system and a BlackBox motion control system, which I would like to use as a large format pen plotter. I purchased the EleksMaker Draw Module (drawmodule2019 | EleksMaker Wiki), which is a pen holder controlled by a servo motor enabling it to slide up and down. I would like to use it as the toolhead for my large format pen plotter and I am wondering:

    1. In order for the pen holder to slide up and down, should the servo motor be connected to the 'Z-MOTOR' or the 'TOOLHEAD' of the BlackBox motion control system?

    2. What is the best software for converting a detailed SVG file to a GCODE file? I tested Inkscape however, it does not provide the option to 'save as' a GCODE file. I also tested OpenBuilds CAM GCODE Creator however, the process took over an hour and was not competed.

    3. What is the best software for plotting? I currently have the OpenBuilds CONTROL software.

    Any help and/or suggestions would be much appreciated!
     
  2. Peter Van Der Walt

    Peter Van Der Walt OpenBuilds Team
    Staff Member Moderator Builder Resident Builder

    Joined:
    Mar 1, 2017
    Messages:
    14,000
    Likes Received:
    4,112
    Use the Servo port: See docs:blackbox:connect-rc-servo [OpenBuilds Documentation] - always refer documentation as incorrect wiring can damage your BlackBox (wiring a servo to a stepper driver for example, would be bad)

    As for software, cam.openbuilds.com supports pen Plotters.
     
  3. AREA

    AREA New
    Builder

    Joined:
    Aug 6, 2021
    Messages:
    5
    Likes Received:
    2
    Thank you - thought I would be safe and ask first!!
     
    Peter Van Der Walt likes this.
  4. mark allemang

    Builder

    Joined:
    Dec 18, 2023
    Messages:
    1
    Likes Received:
    0

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Dismiss Notice