Originally Posted by
PaulRowntree
Hi Frank
If the plotter is always writing on a single XY plane, then any mechanism to remove the pen tip from the plane should work, no? What about a simple $10 PWM servo (the type that RC modelers and robotics hobby folks use) that would swing the pen away from the writing plane? A solenoid may work, bu the travel is usually very short, and they would heat up when energized for long periods of time.
Cheers!
Paul Rowntree
The solenoid should be energized only when the drawing pen is down. A light tension spring should be used to retract the pen when not drawing. The spring should also apply a small amount preload to the pen while drawing so that during small irregularities in the drawing surface the pen does not skip.
CarveOne
CarveOne
http://www.carveonecncwoodcraft.com