Fabrica - The Modular Clothes Folding Robot

Fold Less. Live More. Transform your laundry routine with precision robotic automation

Fabrica - The Modular Clothes Folding Robot

Overview

Fabrica is a Raspberry Pi Pico-based robotic control system designed to automate laundry folding. By utilizing a scalable architecture of hinged panels and servo motors, Fabrica executes complex, human-like folding patterns with a single button press.

Whether you are folding t-shirts, trousers, or towels, Fabrica's modular design allows you to arrange motorized, follower, and base panels to create the perfect rig for any garment.

Key Features

  • Modular Panel System: Uses a mix of motorized panels, follower panels (hinged), and base panels that can be rearranged for different garment types.
  • Fully 3D Printable Design: Every mechanical part—from the folding panels to the hinges—is designed to be 3D printed, making it easy to build, repair, and customize the machine at home.
  • Parallel Motor Execution: Capable of moving up to 4 motors simultaneously within a single step (e.g., folding both sleeves at once).
  • High Scalability: Supports up to 16 motorized panels. 16 independent servo motors for precise control.
  • Raspberry Pi Pico 2W Core: Powered by the efficient RP2040 microcontroller running MicroPython.
  • PC-Free Operation: Runs entirely as a standalone unit; no computer connection is required for daily use.
  • On-Device Programming: Features a "Config Mode" to record new folding sequences directly using the physical buttons.
  • Interactive "Teach" Interface: Users select motors by tapping buttons a specific number of times.
  • Persistent Storage: Motion plans are saved to non-volatile flash memory, retaining settings after power loss.
  • Sequential Step Logic: Capable of chaining multiple steps together (e.g., side fold first, then bottom fold).
  • Smart LED Feedback: Integrated LED indicates system states, config mode status, and save confirmation via blink patterns.

Documentation

Complete Build Guide

Access step-by-step instructions, 3D printable files, circuit diagrams, and source code to build this project.