Material/Assembly Progress – Chamberlain

I have made significant progress on my Upcycle project, particularly in gathering materials and designing the adapter piece that will connect two recycled plastic bottles. My main focus has been on ensuring that all the components are accessible, sustainable, and practical for my intended design.

Progress and Plans

So far, I have secured one large plastic bottle but am still in the process of finding a second one that matches the size and shape I need. These bottles will serve as the primary structure for my project. I have also been researching the best type of dirt or mud to use, as this will be a critical component. While I plan to source this material from natural areas such as a nearby creek or the mountains, I need to determine which type will work best for my application. I am considering factors such as particle size, moisture retention, and nutrient content to ensure the best possible outcome.

The adapter piece, which will connect the two bottles, is a key element of my design. I have decided to 3D print this component using

biodegradable PLA (Polylactic Acid) due to its accessibility, environmental benefits, and versatility. While I have not yet finalized the color choice, I am leaning toward black or green to maintain a discreet and natural look. The joining section of the adapter will be set at a 45-degree angle. This design decision is intentional to prevent excessive buildup inside the connection while still allowing adequate access to the bottles’ interiors. By keeping the angle moderate, I aim to ensure efficient functionality while maintaining ease of use.

Fabrication Schedule

The fabrication phase of the project should be relatively quick and straightforward. The adapter piece, which is the most complex component, will be 3D printed and should only take a few hours to complete. The remaining assembly steps primarily involve acquiring and preparing the

natural materials, which will be simple and require minimal processing. Once I have collected the second bottle and sourced the appropriate dirt or mud, I will assemble the pieces and test the functionality.

The timeline for fabrication is as follows:

Week 1: Finalize research on the best type of dirt/mud and determine any additional materials needed. Collect the second plastic bottle and begin testing natural materials for suitability.

Week 2: Print the adapter piece and ensure a proper fit between the bottles. Assemble all components, troubleshoot any issues, and refine the final product.

Materials Collected

At this stage, I have gathered one large plastic bottle and am still looking for the second. I have also identified sources for dirt and mud, but I need to finalize my selection based on further research. If I am unable to find suitable moss naturally, I may need to purchase some. The PLA filament for 3D printing is readily available, and I am prepared to begin the printing process as soon as I finalize the adapter design.

Overall, my project is progressing well, and I am on track to complete it within the planned timeline. My next steps involve finalizing material choices, acquiring the second bottle, and beginning the fabrication process.

 

* ChatGpt helped type up