Difference between revisions of "Team:UGent Belgium/Shape"
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<p>The aim of the shape optimization group is to design a functional, modular water collector. We use the freely available Autodesk Fusion 360 software to make a 3D design in a collaborative fashion. Together with 3D printing, we can rapidly construct prototypes to be tested for functionality, durability, or even esthetics. The water collector is made from polylactic acid (PLA), an environmentally friendly bioplastic. <br> | <p>The aim of the shape optimization group is to design a functional, modular water collector. We use the freely available Autodesk Fusion 360 software to make a 3D design in a collaborative fashion. Together with 3D printing, we can rapidly construct prototypes to be tested for functionality, durability, or even esthetics. The water collector is made from polylactic acid (PLA), an environmentally friendly bioplastic. <br> | ||
Revision as of 22:18, 31 August 2016
Shape
Overview
The aim of the shape optimization group is to design a functional, modular water collector. We use the freely available Autodesk Fusion 360 software to make a 3D design in a collaborative fashion. Together with 3D printing, we can rapidly construct prototypes to be tested for functionality, durability, or even esthetics. The water collector is made from polylactic acid (PLA), an environmentally friendly bioplastic.
The other WP’s will enhance the physicochemical properties of the water collector.
Goals
- The shape should be able to collect fog, mist, dew and rain from the air into a reservoir.
- The collector should be modular: many collector should be able to be combined to one large structure. On the other hand, a single collector should be able to draw a useful amount of water from the air as well.
- The water collector should be easily transported and stored. Multiple collector should be able to be stacked compactly.
- It should be able to be mass produced cheaply.
Specifications
A shape for water collection
Our shape is inspired by the fogstand beetle (Stenocara gracilipes). Living in Namib Desert in South Africa, this beetle cannot rely on rain or water bodies for its water need. Instead, it tilts its round body in the humid breeze. Small droplets of water are collected against its wings. The wings contain both hydrophilic and hydrophobic patches. The former binds small water droplets, the latter leads larger accumulated drops down to the head of the beetle.
Milestones
Under construction
