Autonomous robotic painter for apparel, murals, and street art.

I built the rail system to handle the unique challenges of precision spray painting on diverse surfaces. For this project, I developed a motorized rail capable of covering an A1-sized area. I translated coordinates into stepper motor movements using vector illustrations created in Inkscape with a modified AxiDraw extension. This software enabled the rail to follow complex paths with precision. I engineered a 3D-printed spray can mount with a custom spray hose and a servo motor. The servo-controlled pressurized paint's release ensures smooth operation during each spray cycle. One major challenge was maintaining consistent spray pressure, as initial prototypes suffered from pressure drops that disrupted the painting process. To resolve this, I redesigned the spray system with a tighter hose opening and minimized the hose length, resulting in a steady and uniform paint flow. This optimized setup allowed for efficient and repeatable paint application across various surfaces.

Future iterations of this project are focused on adapting the system for larger canvases and more detailed applications. I am developing a uniform vertical gantry system for enhanced mobility and range to accommodate expansive artworks. The spray can be replaced with an airbrush, enabling finer detail and more precise control, which is ideal for live gallery use and more intricate designs. This updated system will also integrate real-time adjustments to optimize the user experience, allowing for seamless adaptation between largescale and detailed works. These enhancements expand the system's capabilities, making it versatile for commercial and artistic settings.