Plotter Excercise

For this exercise, our team was tasked with building a single linear stage using a lead screw mechanism, which would be used in conjunction with 2 other linear stages built by other teams to create a 2D plotter. This exercise demonstrates the usage of a lead screw mechanism to move a set point by a precise amount. Additionally, It demonstrates the control of said mechanism using G-code to draw a square on a sheet of paper.

MOV_0042_1.mp4

The linear stage (bottom stage in video) was designed in such a way that it is strong enough to support the weight of another linear stage placed on top of it. The linear stage itself was built from foam board, and hot-glued into place. A piece was placed at each end to support the lead screw, and through the lead screw, a platform was built which was attached to the lead nut in such a way that it would move forwards as the stepper motor spun. It was also stabilized using a piece of foam board at the base parallel to the ground.

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