This video goes behind the scenes and shows how I got my 3D printer to draw a CMYK portrait.
The software processes an image and a mask and separates it into the 4 color channels: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. Those images are also processed to pull out edges. Each color channel is randomly sampled based on intensity. The core of the algorithm considers two points and randomly selects a bunch of possible control nodes for Bezier curves. The one that best accounts for the underlying image pixels is selected, and the process repeats. A lot!
The Bezier curves are converted to G-code, which is then sent to the Ender 3 3D printer. The printer has a custom pen holder attachment that itself was 3D printed. It attaches with 2 magnets to the hot end enclosure, and some M3 bolts act as thumb screws to secure the pen. The key is we need to keep downward pressure on the paper so the pen can draw, while minimizing lateral movement. This carriage design accomplishes that with two small rails and 2 springs (stollen from pens of course!)
See this video for the real time drawing of the portrait: • Penbot draws CMYK port...
TOOLS & MATERIALS (affiliate)
- Creality Ender 3 3D Printer amzn.to/2AAO6ZQ
- Staedtler Triplus Rollerball Pens amzn.to/2UFL3q0
- 8.5x11, 90 lb/163 gsm Cardstock amzn.to/30HBv1r
12 сен 2024
