The Cyberplotter Features a Myriad of Tool Heads for Multiple Applications

Adam Haile's machine has a larger build area and more flexibility than the previously released Engravinator.

Cabe Atwell
4 years agoHome Automation / Robotics
The Cyberplotter offers an 800mm x 750mm build area and several quick-change tool heads, including laser, pen, camera, and airbrush. (📷: Adam Haile)

On his project blog, Adam Haile of Maniacal Labs states he has been using CNC machines for years, and after designing the Engravinator, decided he wanted to construct one of his own, only it needed to be large and offer the flexibility to use more than just a laser or pen tool head. The onset of the pandemic allowed him to create the Cyberplotter, which checked off nearly every box on his CNC wishlist, including having a large working area of 800mm x 750mm (depending on what’s mounted) and quick-change tool heads.

The Cyberplotter features an aluminum extrusion frame, ExoSlide linear slides for both X and Y axes, 9mm wide GT3 heavy-duty belts, Nema 23 1.2 Nm motors (one on X and two on Y), and DM542Y 4A motor drivers. Beyond that, it packs a 40mm travel Z-axis, SmoothieBoard 5X, built-in white and UV LEDs, travel speeds up to 1000mm/s on X and 500mm/s on Y, adjustable voltage (5V, 12V, 24V), and interchangeable tool heads with standard power and signal connectors.

As far as the tool heads go, Haile does include a laser for engraving, along with a pen lift for plotting purposes, but also a Z-axis mount (with 40mm of travel), a marker-based (Sharpie) airbrush, and a camera with LED illumination that’s still in the proof-of-concept stage. Haile states that he will incorporate several other tools down the line, including a drag knife, stipple spike, an automated punch (for embroidery), mini plasma cutter, and even a 3D printer with extreme XY and minimal Z height.

Those interested can see a complete walkthrough of the build in Haile's Maniacal Labs blog post.

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