In summary...

AxiDraw is a fast, modern plotter (XY: 28 cm/s), but with variable speed, which, using pencils, felt-tips, ball-point pens or other suitable markers (ø 16 mm max.) can draw on any smooth surface on which it is possible to put the plotter. Not just paper, but also cardboard, whiteboards, large panels (even vertically), sheet metal, fabric on a frame, etc.

If needed, the pen holder can be inclined up to 45 º, which allows you to use for example and ink pen to imitate manuscript writing to perfection. Changing between the two positions is manual (with a screw).

It is equally possible to use AxiDraw in an inclined position or even on a vertical support. If the pen is too light, or if AxiDraw is used in a vertical position, to compensate for the lack of gravity, a return elastic can be used to make the pen-holder descend.

I have read that satisfactory tests have been made drawing on leather, aluminum foil, and other smooth materials. It seems to me that it is precisely these unconventional options that offer possibilities of invention, creation and innovation for this tool.  
 
By comparison with a conventional table plotter, AxiDraw’s great originality is being able to draw on surfaces that are bigger than the machine itself. The actual limits of the design are the A4 format (300 × 218 mm), and there does not (yet) exist a way of moving and realigning the plotter which would allow a design in a bigger format. An A3 format AxiDraw model is being studied at EMS, but they still have to resolve some problems with rigidity.

The other interesting possibility is to experiment by replacing the pen holder with another device, notably a light-emitting diode, for drawing, or a laser for cutting… Mechanically this is very simple, it only needs two M4 screws to fix your accessory to the plotter.

 
 

If you say “robot” you’re saying “work”

To conclude, another original application of AxiDraw shows what this robot can easily turn its hand to: at Mouse-Sensitivity.com, it’s been put to work for a test of the precision of the sensors of computer mice!