plotr

this project has two parts:

• 1. c# HPGL processor for some manipulations with simple HPGL files (Hewlett-Packard graphics language) used for plotters
• 2. arduino project for receiving simple HPGL over serial port and using it to drive step-motors

Primary this was used to raise-from-groove of my old plotter MINIGRAF ARITMA A507.

News

• Added partial support for gerber files (exported from Fritzing or Eagle). It was used for (successfull) experiment with permanent pen (for CD) to create PCB with etching. Gerber files contains informations for filling, so there is simple alghorith to fill the shapes.
• Added more commands to interctive mode (when sending to serial port and pausing) - moving pen, adding delay between pen downs, etc. This also helps to etching scenario.

Plotr-HPGL processor

simple utility to process HPGL file with 3 types of output

• image (bitmap) it can convert HPGL file into image (png by default)
• file just for doing some operations with your HPGL file (see more)
• serial port for sending your file to your home-made potter. It can be paused for changing your pen etc.

Utility supports only some commands of HPGL language: PU,PD (Pen Up/Pen Down) PA,PR (Pen Absolute, Pen Relative) LB (Label)

It can do some operations for you

• converting text to vectors (using embedded font)
• transform drawing (autoscale, rotate, move, zoom)
• optimize pen-up moves
• absolutize (remove PR's)

see commandline help for more

minigraf-Arduino sources

receives HPGL over serial port (at 57600 bauds) and drives step motors. It is assumed, that step-mottors already has TTL counter driver, so there are 3 X-pins (D7-D5), 3 Y-pins (D4-D2) and PEN pin (D12). There is also hard-coded timing for my plotter, so you can change it.

implemented HGPL commands:

• PU[x,y];
• PD[x,y]*;
• PAx,y[,x,y]*;
• PRx,y[,x,y]*;
• LBtext<0xD>

Enjoy

Installation, compilation

plotr - simple c# .NET 4.5 application. Open & compile with Visual Studio 2012. You can use SDK or express. minigraf - use arduino addin to Visual studio 2012