Cnc

SSK Multi-Pen Plotter Firmware

A custom firmware for an ESP32-based multi-pen plotter with automatic tool changing capabilities, designed for educational tinkering labs across Kerala schools.

🎯 Project Overview

This project is part of a government initiative undertaken by SSK to establish tinkering labs in 98 schools across Kerala. The multi-pen plotter provides students with hands-on experience in machine programming and operation, fostering practical learning in automation and digital fabrication.

Key Features

• 🖊️ Multi-Pen Plotting: Support for multiple pens with automatic tool changing
• 🔄 Automatic Tool Change: M6T command for seamless pen switching (X = pen number)
• 📱 Multiple User Interfaces: Built-in UI for drawing and image import
• 🌐 Connectivity: Serial, WiFi, and Bluetooth communication support
• 💾 Storage: SD card support for storing drawings and configurations
• 🔦 Laser Pointer: Integrated laser pointer for positioning and alignment
• ⌨️ Input Control: Keypad interface via daughter board
• 🎛️ Web Configuration: FluidNC web installer for easy machine setup

🏗️ Hardware

• Microcontroller: ESP32 with custom PCB design
• Motion Control: Stepper motor drivers
• Tool System: Automatic pen changing mechanism
• Storage: SD card module
• Interface: Keypad daughter board
• Positioning Aid: Laser pointer module
• Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, Serial communication

🚀 Installation

Prerequisites

• FluidNC Web Installer
• Git (for cloning the repository)

Setup Process

1. Clone the Repository

   https://github.com/vishnu-c-r/PolyPlot-Firmware.git
   cd PolyPlot-Firmware

2. Install Firmware

   • flash the firmware using platformio or arduino

3. Configure Machine

   • Use the FluidNC web installer to set the machine configuration
   • Upload your specific plotter parameters and tool definitions

📖 Usage

Basic Operations

Tool Changing

Use the M6T command to change tools automatically:

M6T1  ; Change to pen 1
M6T2  ; Change to pen 2
M6T3  ; Change to pen 3

Drawing Operations

• Import SVG images through the built-in UI
• Use the web interface for real-time control
• Connect via serial, WiFi, or Bluetooth for remote operation

User Interface Options

1. Built-in UI: Direct machine interface for drawing and image import
2. Web Interface: Browser-based control panel
3. Serial Terminal: Command-line interface for advanced users
4. Mobile Apps: Bluetooth connectivity for mobile control

🔧 Configuration

The machine configuration is handled through the FluidNC web installer. Key parameters include:

• Stepper motor settings
• Tool change positions and sequences
• Communication interface settings
• SD card and storage options
• UI preferences and display settings

🎓 Educational Applications

Perfect for:

• STEM Education: Hands-on programming and automation learning
• Art & Design: Digital art creation and physical plotting
• Engineering Concepts: Understanding CNC principles and G-code
• Problem Solving: Troubleshooting and optimization exercises

🔄 Version History

Current Version

• ✅ Automatic tool changing with M6T command
• ✅ Multiple UI options with built-in drawing interface
• ✅ Enhanced connectivity (Serial, WiFi, Bluetooth)
• ✅ Improved SD card handling
• ✅ Laser pointer integration
• ✅ Keypad control interface

Previous Versions

• Basic pen plotting functionality
• Single tool operation
• Limited UI

🛠️ Technical Details

Based on FluidNC

This firmware is a modified version of FluidNC by bdring, customized specifically for multi-pen plotting applications with automatic tool changing capabilities.

Communication Protocols

• Serial: USB/UART communication
• WiFi: Wireless network connectivity
• Bluetooth: Mobile device pairing

Supported G-code Commands

• Standard FluidNC G-code set
• Custom M6T tool change commands
• Extended plotting-specific commands

🤝 Contributing

This project is part of the SSK initiative for educational tinkering labs. Contributions that enhance the educational value and machine functionality are welcome.

🙏 Acknowledgments

• FluidNC Project: bdring/FluidNC for the base firmware
• Students and Educators: Who will use and improve this system
• FabLab Kerala MTM team: for building the project from ground up

Empowering the next generation of makers and engineers through hands-on learning experiences.