3-D (XYZ) Plotter

3-D (XYZ) Plotter

The 3-D (XYZ) Plotter, shown below, is composed of an XY Plotter and a Lifting Table - both commercially purchased. The software used to operate both is available here (under Final Design > Part I > Software). The lifting motion relies on a Stepper Motor resting on top of a Linear Slider.

Figure 1. XYZ Plotter

XY Plotter

In order to enable motion in a two-dimensional plane, a 2-D Plotter was identified such that its specifications matched those prescribed by the Sponsor. The chosen plotter is described below:

LIFTING TABLE

In order to achieve motion in the third dimension, a lifting table was identified and motorized so as to impart the entire set up with controllable movement. The chosen lift is described below:

Stepper Motor

In order to impart the manually raised workbench with controllable motion, a stepper motor was identified and purchased, mounted on a linear slider, and controller using the aforementioned software. The chosen motor is described below:

A power supply (Model # PSAM24V2.7A by Anaheim Automation) was needed to operate the motor. Information about this part can be found here and here.

Given that the lift precision screw moves horizontally as it is lifted or lowered, the motor was mounted on a linear slider (Ball Bearing Carriage Model # 6709K13 and 220-mm Long Guide Rail Model # 6709K43)so it could move along with the precision screw. Information about the parts of this component can be found by clicking on each item. 

A coupler was designed and fabricated using a 3-D printer to connect the motor shaft to the Lift Table precision screw. The SolidWorks file for this essential component can be found under CAD and downloaded here.