Introduction: Plotter Using 3D Printer
This is a simple project that allows you to print(Plot) graphics such as vectors,texts, etc. For this project I used my Tevo Tarantula 3D Printer and so all the 3D Printable parts are for this printer itself. However, attachment for all other printers are available on Thingiverse.
UPDATE: Version 3 of the attachment is now available for download.
Step 1: Things Required
1. 3D Printer
2.Repetier-Host(Application) Link: Repetier-Host
3.LaserWeb(Application) Link: LaserWeb
4.Inkscape(Application) Link: Inkscape
5.M3 screws (x4)(2 Long and 2 short).
6.M3 nuts(x2)(This is applicable if you want to use the version 3)
Step 2: 3D Print the .stl File
Here is the link for .stl file for the plotter attachment.
Version 2
Go ahead and download the file and print it.
If that link does not work download the uploaded file.
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Here are the basic print settings:
Print Settings
Printer Brand: TEVO
Printer: Tarantula
Rafts: No
Supports: Doesn't Matter
Resolution: 0.15 mm
Infill: 20% to 70% (I Printed with 20%)
Filament: Generic ABS or PC
Any Colour of Your Choice
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Fixing the attachment
After the printing is complete, using 2 long M3 screws fix the attachment to the print head.
UPDATE: Version 3 of the attachment is available for download. If you wish to use the Version 3 you will require 2 M3 nuts.
Attachments
Step 3: Software Part
Download and install all the applications listed.
1.Open LaserWeb>Settings>GCode
Inside GCode Start Put:
G21 ; Set units to mm
G90 ; Absolute positioning
G28 ; Home
G0 Z10.0 ; Go to 10mm on Z Axis a.k.a. Pen up
Inside GCode End Put:
M5 ; Switch tool offEnd
Inside GCode Homing Put:
G28 ; Home
Inside Tool On Put:
G0 Z0.0 ; Pen down
Inside Tool Off Put:
G0 Z2.0 ; Pen up
Step 4: Creating .svg File
There are two methods
1.USING ONLINE CONVERTER
This is the part which requires the internet.If you have a .png image then it could be easily converted to .svg. Here is the link for converter. Link: Converter.
2. USING INKSCAPE
Open Inkscape>File>Import>Select Your file>Edit it
After editing
Go to File>Save>Select location and save.
Step 5: Converting .svg to .gcode
After you have made a .svg file, now it time to convert it into .gcode.
I know some of you might say that you can use Inkscape for that directly, However it really never worked out for me. So, I use LaserWeb for that purpose. The images contains all the steps.
Step 6: Getting Started With Your Print
After you have fixed the attachment to the print head. Fix a pen with Two M3 screws(I used only one). However, I would recommend adding a M3 Nut to avoid the plastic holes for fixing the screws.
Don't forget to attach a paper.
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Printing your design and graphics
Open the Repetier-Host>Connect the printer with USB to your laptop>Click 'Connect' button.
After connection is successful>Go to Load>Select your file>Print Preview>Print.
Your printer should 'Home'. Don't worry if the printer is slow at starting. Once the pen touches the paper it will increase its speed.
Step 7: Plotting......
Here are the images of plotter while plotting.
Step 8: Final Product
This is how the final print looks. If observed closely you can see some vibrations in the print. These can be reduced by slowing down the sped of the print, Which can be done in the LaserWeb where we changed 0 to 4500.
Note:You will have to remove the plotter attachment before 3D Printing any other thing. As the attachment block some part of the Print Head Fan.
HAPPYPLOTTING..... :D
If you have any doubt or problem in understanding the step, Feel free to ask in the comment section. I will try my best to help you out. ;D
Step 9: About Myself
My name is Kanad Nemade. I am 15 years old. Big nerd Robots and Tech related things. This is my first Instructable Post and so sorry for mistakes in grammar. :D
