I am in the very beginning stages of design so there are still a lot of things that can change. I started with the initial physical design of the Bot. So, pieces such as the base, linkages, and the motor extensions are being drafted in Solidworks. After much thought the base of the Sketch Bot is going to be redesigned for more support and stability. The linkages of the Sketch Bot will uphold the original design that we have. It is imperative that the linkages of the Bot are a light-weight design. This helps with the mechanical stress that the motor would have to endure. The theory is that the less mechanical stress the servos must endure, the more accurate the drawing or picture will be.

Project Summary

The Sketch Bot would be able to draw any image that would be uploaded to Microsoft Paint. The Bot would be controlled via arduino, and the arduino would be coded with an algorithm that would be able to read the paint file of the user’s choice. All of the physical components of the Bot would be made out of PLA plastic that would be made by a 3D printer. Arduino programming and Matlab would be used to construct the code for the algorithm to be uploaded to the arduino unit. A long term goal for the Sketch Bot would be able to draw any image on different surfaces. 

Project Outline

1. Drawing and Design

2. Wiring and Electronics

3. 3D Print Assembly

4. Create Moving Model

4. MATLAB Code and Arduino

5. Perform Final Tests

Project Materials

Breadboard

Arduino Uno

Servos (3)

Bearings

MATLAB Code Transfer Tool (Arduino)

Project References

Operating Voltage: 4.8- 6.0VDC

Operating Speed: 0.20sec/60degree (4.8V), 0.16sec/60degree (6.0V)

Stall Torque: 5.3kg*cm (4.8V), 7kg*cm (6.0V)

Temperature Range: -20°C ~60°C

Dead Band Width: 4ms

Servo Deluxe HD Ball Bearing Servo Motor