Urdu Hand Writing Machine

Project Title

Urdu Hand Writing Machine

Project Area of Specialization Software EngineeringProject Summary

The Handwriting Robot is a special type of machine that uses a pen, pencil or a marker to draw letters on paper or other flat surface. It implements CNC technology, short for Computer Numerically Controlled, referring to the physical movements of the machine being controlled by instructions, such as co-ordinate positions that are generated using a computer. The project model utilizes ARDUINO UNO, which is capable of processing logical instructions interfaced with a computer. The logical instructions are provided by using a computer in the form of code which is then transformed into machine language by the ARDUINO to be executed by the machine. The output delivered is the printing of handwriting on a paper. The project is set out to be one-of-a-kind, Urdu-centric Handwriting Machine.

Project Objectives

In the increasingly digitizing and automated world, our national language Urdu has been left behind in terms of embracing the technological advancement. Our primary objective is to develop a first-of-its-kind, Urdu-centric Handwriting Machine. It must be able to print perfectly written classical Urdu in Nastaleeq and Naskh fonts as well as execute general-purpose handwriting to a highly respectable degree of accuracy. Furthermore, the scope of the project should expand beyond just the functionality aspect of handwriting – Including the domains of personal signature design and printing, as well as Arabic/Islamic calligraphy.

Project Implementation Method

Urdu Handwriting Machine is a CNC based handwriting tool. It is open source and open hardware based project. It uses Arduino UNO (Atmega328p) as the brain of the machine and a special GRBL firmware for G-Code Interpretation and motion control. It also uses a core [X, Y] Cartesian movement to control both X and Y axis. The Z axis is controlled by a servo motor to lift pen up and down.

It would be capable of writing on almost any flat surface. It can write with gel pens, permanent markers, and a variety of other writing implements to handle an endless number of applications. Its writing head extends beyond the machine, making it possible to draw on objects bigger than the machine itself.

Phase 1: Hardware implementation

• Prerequisites e.g. Wood, Arduino, CNC shield etc
• Seeking professional help from wood cutters, welder for designing accuracy
• Integrate different hardware parts together to develop a single unit
• Arduino UNO programmed with GRBL open source project
• Hardware check through Universal GCode Sender software

Phase 2: Software implementation

• Gathering necessary software libraries
• Libraries usage research
• UI design
• Final software development

Phase 3: Software and Hardware Integration

• Configuration changes in software as per hardware requirement
• Integration of hardware with software

NOTE: FLOW CHART HAS BEEN ATTACHED

 

Benefits of the Project

Since the very initial brainstorming done on our project, we have had a clear purpose in mind from the outset. The ultimate purpose of our project is to play a part in contributing to the significance of our national language, Urdu. Research has shown us that Urdu has not quite taken to technology like its numerous compatriot languages have – No such handwriting printing equivalent with the special Urdu-centric focus is currently available – Which makes it unique in nature. The Handwriting Machine can execute its functionality using a pen, pencil or even a marker, providing the options for customizability. It does so with pinpoint accuracy, making it fit to match up to any professional or artistic standards.

One specific application of this project is to enhance Karachi University’s tradition of having hand-crafted degrees, classified documents and other essential records – which is now being heavily constrained due to the already limited human resources having declined – The Handwriting Robot can be fine-tuned to make a significant difference to this unfortunate situation. Other applications would include various kinds of calligraphy, personal signature as well as physically handicapped people who cannot write.

Technical Details of Final Deliverable

Hardware:

• SMPS 12v 5A must be wired to normal home voltage (220V) to supply required current to NEMA stepper motors
•  GT2 Belt moving across the rods (which makes the pen movement possible) through F623ZZ Bearings or plastic pulleys to function smoothly
• Arduino UNO would be connected to laptop through USB cable and supplies GCode to CNC Shield and necessary voltage to Servo Motor for functioning.
• A pen holder at Y-axis rod would be placed with a Servo motor (that would be responsible for pen’s up and down movement)

Software:

• A .Net framework based desktop application built using C#
• It would be connected to any serial terminal through which it sends command to the Arduino UNO
• User would type in textbox available in the application and the software would generate the respective GCode automatically and send it to the Arduino UNO

Final Deliverable of the Project HW/SW integrated systemCore Industry OthersOther IndustriesCore Technology OthersOther Technologies Robotics, Wearables and ImplantablesSustainable Development Goals Industry, Innovation and InfrastructureRequired Resources

Item Name	Type	No. of Units	Per Unit Cost (in Rs)	Total (in Rs)
			Total in (Rs)	36063
NEMA 17 Steppers 1.8 Degree Step 12v Torque more than 5kg/cm	Equipment	2	2100	4200
8mm smooth rods 600 mm long	Equipment	4	1491	5964
SC10UU	Equipment	8	600	4800
20-Tooth GT2 with belt	Equipment	1	1500	1500
F623ZZ Bearings	Equipment	10	170	1700
Arduino UNO	Equipment	1	3000	3000
micro servo sg90	Equipment	1	2484	2484
CNC shield with A4988 drivers	Equipment	1	3484	3484
Hard Wood 1mx20cmx4cm	Equipment	1	1000	1000
Aluminium Sheet 3mm	Equipment	1	20	20
SMPS 12v 5A	Equipment	1	2000	2000
Wire 5m	Equipment	1	500	500
Solder	Miscellaneous	1	500	500
BLDC Fan	Miscellaneous	3	300	900
Welder, wood cutter service charges	Miscellaneous	1	1036	1036
Other	Miscellaneous	1	2975	2975