BrachioGraph: a DIY Drawing Robot

A BrachioGraph is a simple robot that can draw. The name comes from Greek words meaning "arm" and "to write" as it uses arm-like parts to move a pen around.

Here's the cool part: you can build one using a Raspberry Pi, some cheap motors, and a bit of Python code. The whole thing costs about £15-20, which is pretty affordable for a drawing robot!

Don't expect precise drawings. It uses cheap motors and simple parts - and it can only pivot - so the lines will be a bit wobbly. You can think of that as part of its charm - each drawing ends up with its own unique, slightly messy style. You can choose the pen and paper to make it your own, too.

It is a great way to learn about robotics and coding without spending a ton of money. You might be a student, a teacher, or someone who likes to tinker with tech, and you can have a lot of fun with this project. It's Open Source, so you can check out how it works and make your own tweaks. It's a hands-on way to see how simple parts can come together to make something pretty cool!

Here are some resources to help you get started...

• Official BrachioGraph Documentation - Comprehensive guide by Daniele Procida
• Getting Arty with a Pi - A detailed write-up by Andy Piper on building a Brachiograph
• Brachio.me - A web tool to convert images for use with your BrachioGraph
  • Howto - more guidance on how to build one
• BrachioGraph Converter GUI - Another tool to convert images for use with your BrachioGraph

See BrachioGraphs at work

Explore a world of DIY plotters and generative art

• DrawingBots.net - A comprehensive resource for drawing machines
• TurtleToy - Create art with simple JavaScript commands
• Generative Hut - a home of generative art