✍️ SketchBot: IoT-Controlled 2D CNC Plotter

📌 Project Overview

SketchBot is a wireless 2D Plotter capable of drawing complex vector graphics and text. The system is controlled via a custom Flutter Mobile App, which sends drawing commands over Wi-Fi to the machine.

The project bridges the gap between high-level software (Mobile App) and low-level actuation (Stepper Motors), enabling remote creativity without the need for physical cables.

⚙️ System Architecture

1. Mobile Application (Flutter):
   • User interface to select images or text to draw.
   • Converts graphics into coordinates/commands.
   • Sends data to the cloud/controller via WiFi.
2. Wireless Bridge (ESP8266):
   • Receives drawing packets from the app.
   • Forwards commands to the motion controller via UART (Serial).
3. Motion Controller (Arduino):
   • Parses incoming commands (G-Code flavored).
   • Drives X and Y Stepper Motors using CNC Shield / A4988 Drivers to move the pen with precision.
   • Controls the Z-axis (Servo) for Pen Up/Down movements.

🛠️ Tech Stack

• Software: Dart (Flutter), C++ (Embedded).
• Electronics: Arduino Uno, ESP8266 (NodeMCU), CNC Shield, Stepper Drivers.
• Actuators: NEMA 17 Stepper Motors, Micro Servo (SG90).
• Mechanics: 2-Axis Gantry System (GT2 Belts & Pulleys).

🚀 How to Run

1. Firmware Setup

• Flash firmware/motion_controller/arduino_main.ino to the Arduino.
• Flash firmware/wifi_bridge/esp_handler.ino to the ESP8266.
• Note: Ensure Serial Baud rates match in both codes.

2. Mobile App

cd mobile_app
flutter pub get
flutter run