The goal of this project was to design and construct a 2.5 degrees of freedom electromechanical system capable of producing a desired functional output. In a team of three, we developed a syringe-based art system that generates images using controlled water droplets. The system combines multi-axis motion, fluid actuation, and automated path generation to translate digital images into physical water droplet patterns.

The final system uses 8020 aluminum extrusion, stepper motors, belt-driven linear stages, and a syringe actuation mechanism to precisely control droplet placement in a two-dimensional workspace with an additional half degree of freedom for fluid dispensing.

The design process began with defining the kinematic layout and motion strategy for the 2.5 DoF system. We created an initial sketch to establish axis relationships and syringe actuation logic, then transitioned into a full CAD model in Onshape.

The system architecture used belt-driven linear rails for both X and Y motion, with custom 3D-printed motor mounts, sliders, and structural components integrated into an 8020 aluminum frame. A laser-cut acrylic plate served as the drawing surface for droplet placement. Multiple design iterations were performed to improve alignment, reduce mechanical backlash, and ensure consistent syringe actuation.

This project strengthened my understanding of multi-axis motion systems, mechanical design iteration, and software-to-hardware integration. It also reinforced the importance of coordinating motion control with physical actuation when building systems that translate digital inputs into real-world outputs.