Description

An XY-Plotter is a simple CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine which connects to a computer via an Arduino. Two stepper motors control the motion of a pen very precisely so that it can draw pictures. To program the XY-Plotter, you first draw a design on graph paper, then label the (x,y) coordinates of each corner point, and finally type the G-Code into any text editor. You can test your code using our virtual online Plotter. If you have access to an actual XY-Plotter, you can then run the program and see it draw your picture.

Levels

• Grades 5 through 9.

Preparation Time

5 minutes

Activity Time

60 minutes to introduce the activity. The full unit can last 4 to 10 class sessions.

Topics

• Plotting positive and negative integers
• Counting by 10s
• Logical Thinking
• Trouble Shooting

Materials

• handouts
• pencils
• centimeter grid paper

Credits

Author

This work placed into the public domain by the Riverbend Community Math Center.