I want to build a XY table printer from parts

[Guest]

Archived from groups: comp.periphs.printers (More info?)

I am looking for a starting point in order to build a mechanism to enable me
to move the print head rather than the paper as I would like to print onto
stiff plastic material which won't pass though a printer. I think I may be
able to do this by taking a old printer to bits ( I have several at my
disposal) and modifying it so the the paper feed drive propelles the print
head on a gantry alonng the length of my material. I would also need to
intercept somehow the page feed command or action in order to return the
print head to it's starting point.

I am greatfull for any ideas you may have or sites to check out.

Fin.

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: comp.periphs.printers (More info?)

"news.btinternet.com" <edward.finlayson@btinternet.com> wrote in message
news:ck66r6$c43$1@titan.btinternet.com...
> I am looking for a starting point in order to build a mechanism to enable
me
> to move the print head rather than the paper as I would like to print onto
> stiff plastic material which won't pass though a printer.

Some printers with straight paper path will print on thick card and others
will print on coated CDs.

Will the ink "work" on the plastic you intend using? I find it usually comes
right off most ordinary plastics if rubbed. The best solution I found was to
print onto high gloss self adhesive paper designed for inkjets (Canson brand
here in Belgium) then stick it to rigid plastic then spray with a lacquer to
waterproof. gave good results for one off signs and instrument panels.

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: comp.periphs.printers (More info?)

On Fri, 8 Oct 2004 14:05:27 +0000 (UTC), "news.btinternet.com"
<edward.finlayson@btinternet.com> wrote:

>I am looking for a starting point in order to build a mechanism to enable me
>to move the print head rather than the paper as I would like to print onto
>stiff plastic material which won't pass though a printer. I think I may be
>able to do this by taking a old printer to bits ( I have several at my
>disposal) and modifying it so the the paper feed drive propelles the print
>head on a gantry alonng the length of my material. I would also need to
>intercept somehow the page feed command or action in order to return the
>print head to it's starting point.
>
>I am greatfull for any ideas you may have or sites to check out.
>
>Fin.
>
A Plotter sounds more like your needs. You may even find pens that work
for plastics.