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''Note: The technology on this page is now out of date -- see [[Recyclebot v2.3|Recyclebot version 2.3]] for up-to-date information.'' | ''Note: The technology on this page is now out of date -- see [[Recyclebot v2.3|Recyclebot version 2.3]] for up-to-date information.'' | ||
Below is a modified abstract submitted for the Mech 461 presentation. | Below is a modified abstract submitted for the Mech 461 presentation. Page content will be updated over the coming weeks. | ||
Rapid prototypers allow for quick and accurate fabrication of products or scale models and are a useful production and design tool. Recently an open source model, the RepRap, has been developed which can be built for under $1000, greatly expanding the potential user base of rapid prototypers. It could feasibly be used as a small-scale manufacturing or sustainable development tool. The RepRap's plastic feedstock is one area where cost can still be reduced. A device was created by Web4Deb which turns waste plastic into a growth medium for plants. His device has been modified to create feedstock for the RepRap printer. A description and analysis of the design is presented including component properties, testing procedures and extrusion results. The success of this device would further enhance RepRap affordability by reducing operating costs. Filament production could also offer an alternative income source. In addition, it enables in-home plastic recycling with a usable byproduct. This has implications in the field of waste management as in-home recycling could avoid the greenhouse gas emissions and economic costs associated with municipal recycling programs by bypassing waste collection and transportation. | Rapid prototypers allow for quick and accurate fabrication of products or scale models and are a useful production and design tool. Recently an open source model, the RepRap, has been developed which can be built for under $1000, greatly expanding the potential user base of rapid prototypers. It could feasibly be used as a small-scale manufacturing or sustainable development tool. The RepRap's plastic feedstock is one area where cost can still be reduced. A device was created by Web4Deb which turns waste plastic into a growth medium for plants. His device has been modified to create feedstock for the RepRap printer. A description and analysis of the design is presented including component properties, testing procedures and extrusion results. The success of this device would further enhance RepRap affordability by reducing operating costs. Filament production could also offer an alternative income source. In addition, it enables in-home plastic recycling with a usable byproduct. This has implications in the field of waste management as in-home recycling could avoid the greenhouse gas emissions and economic costs associated with municipal recycling programs by bypassing waste collection and transportation. |