With some imagination and an Arduino almost anything is possible, including re-purposing items which may no longer have any use. One fun example of this is by Marie Caye and Arvid Jense, who have created a simple CNC-style device which can be used to create spirograph-type patterns on cookies with icing.
The main hardware is from a used turntable, ideal for rotating biscuits awaiting their artistic icing coat. This is dispensed via a funnel whose position across the cookie is controlled via a servo and Arduino. With a combination of turntable speed and servo position all sorts of effects can be created with the icing, as shown in the following video:
Finally an Arduino project you can sink your teeth into - and you can find out how by visiting the project's Instructable page. And for more, we're on facebook, Google+, and twitter - so follow us for news and product updates as well.
If you're interested with making your own CNC-type device, save time and increase reliability with the Freetronics CNCPlotter Stepper Motor controller:
The CNCPlotter is a complete twin stepper motor solution - from the onboard Arduino Leonardo-compatible microcontroller, microSD card socket, USB interface and twin stepper motor controllers - all topped with a 20x4 LCD. Simply connect power and your motors, upload a control sketch and your CNC-based device is ready to go. For more information, details and to order visit the CNCPlotter page.
