This is an updated version of my ExtruDraw plotter. If you have already built an ExtruDraw some of the hardware is compatible but there isn't a huge difference between them so you may not find this a big upgrade and it might not be worth changing your plotter over to this design.

The main difference between the two is that where the Extrudraw has its belts in a cross shape this plotter has H-shaped belts. This has the advantage that the plotter can work fully inside its own footprint with no parts overhanging outside of the plotting area. For the same reason the pen height can be more stable since the pen arm is supported at both ends with less risk of drooping from the weight of the pen arm.

However, despite these differences the plotter is close enough to the AxiDraw that software or hardware intended to drive an AxiDraw should also be able to drive this plotter with some minor code reconfiguration (see later for details).

The whole plotter is designed in OpenSCAD, the code is included in case you need to make modifications.

With the suggested lengths for rails this machine has a footprint 75cm long and 54.2cm wide so your baseboard should be this size or greater. This machine must have a baseboard to function properly and I would recommend MDF (either bare, painted or foiled/coated), coated chipboard or very smooth & flat plywood. All baseboards need to be flat and smooth and you need to be able to screw the feet of the plotter to it. I used a spare cupboard shelf from IKEA, you might find something similar but you may need to cut to size.

NOTE: After lots of messing around I have no idea how to format text here, go to Printables if you'd like something nicer, same model name