Matrix user forums

Hi there

I would like to make a simple plotter/CNC machine out of some old CD-ROM drives using the stepper motors for the X- and Y-axis.
I would like it to be able to import simple drawings in bmp or similar formats. I have looked a little at G-code, which could be a great way to enter data to the machine.

Does any of You have any experiences in doing Flowcode for a DIY-plotter?

Hello,

Yes I have built CNC machines and 3D printers, they are both essentially the same thing with a different tool on.

Here is a 3D printer component that can be simulated in Flowcode.
http://www.flowcode.co.uk/wiki/index.php ... 732c4e05ce

There is a G Code parser example as part of the examples which allows you to parse through a G code file and either simulate or control a real machine.

These should hopefully help to get you started but do not do the control side of things. For this you could maybe use a USB component and do the control from within Flowcode or you could save the G code file to a SD card and run the job by parsing the G code on the fly from the card.

Hello

i started to make a 3 axies CNC Machine several years ago for making my own pcb prototypes

bellow are a few links you may find useful

https://cnc4you.co.uk/

http://www.probotix.com/CNC-CONTROL-SYS ... kout-Board

http://linuxcnc.org/

https://buildyourcnc.com/Item/control-SOFTWARE-linuxcnc

Wish you all the best with your project very exiting

Steve

I made my current CNC by following the guide here, though you need access to a laser cutter and a 3D printer as well as machinery to cut the metal rods etc.
http://www.instructables.com/id/3D-printed-CNC-mill/

It's a nice machine and works well but a bit slow because it's lead screw rather than belt driven.

Benj wrote:Hello,

Yes I have built CNC machines and 3D printers, they are both essentially the same thing with a different tool on.

Here is a 3D printer component that can be simulated in Flowcode.
http://www.flowcode.co.uk/wiki/index.php ... 732c4e05ce

There is a G Code parser example as part of the examples which allows you to parse through a G code file and either simulate or control a real machine.

These should hopefully help to get you started but do not do the control side of things. For this you could maybe use a USB component and do the control from within Flowcode or you could save the G code file to a SD card and run the job by parsing the G code on the fly from the card.

Hi Benj
Of course, they are
Switch the cutting tool with a pen - and you have a plotter!

Thank you for the great link - I will look into that.
What is the problem by doing the control side? Timing?
I am going to have students do the project later on, so it needs to be an acceptable challenge doing this project.

Steve001 wrote:Hello

i started to make a 3 axies CNC Machine several years ago for making my own pcb prototypes

bellow are a few links you may find useful

https://cnc4you.co.uk/

http://www.probotix.com/CNC-CONTROL-SYS ... kout-Board

http://linuxcnc.org/

https://buildyourcnc.com/Item/control-SOFTWARE-linuxcnc

Wish you all the best with your project very exiting

Steve

Thanks Steve
Looks pretty cool. Thanks!