College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Electrical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Electrical Engineering
Date
7-2026
Primary Advisor
Chuck Bland, College of Engineering, Electrical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
This project presents the design and implementation of a low-cost XY positioning system capable of providing precise two-dimensional motion using a gantry-style mechanical platform. The primary objective was to develop a system that demonstrates accurate planar positioning while integrating mechanical, electrical, and control system concepts learned throughout the Electrical Engineering curriculum. The completed prototype utilizes DC motors, motor driver circuitry, belts, pulleys, push-button controls, and custom-designed 3D printed components to produce controlled movement along both the X and Y axes.
The original project proposal called for a closed-loop control system using rotary potentiometers to provide position feedback for each axis. This design would have allowed continuous position monitoring and automatic correction of positioning errors through an analog feedback loop. During development, significant time was spent designing and testing the feedback circuitry. However, due to project timeline constraints and the complexity of completing a reliable closed-loop implementation, the system was modified to use button-controlled positioning. This design change allowed the team to complete a fully functional mechanical and electrical prototype while preserving the overall project objectives.
The final system successfully demonstrates coordinated two-axis motion, reliable motor control, and a modular mechanical design suitable for future expansion. Although closed-loop feedback was not fully implemented, the completed platform establishes a solid foundation for future work involving PID control, position sensing, and automated motion sequences.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/eesp/743