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Microgrow - Coggle Diagram
Microgrow
SKILLS I NEED
3D printing
I need to learn how to use the 3D printer.
Fusion 360
I need to master how to use Fusion 360, I can use various Youtube tutorials to practice the tools I will need to use on Fusion.
Tools such as: "Loft", "Offset plane", "Combine", "Hatch", "Intersect", "Pattern", "Revolve", "Pattern and twist."
Micro:bit
I need to learn how to code the mirco:bit.
I need to be able to create and follow design specifications to create the product.
I need to learn how to create an orthographic drawing.
AESTHETICS
Vibrant colours to attract target audience.
The microbit should be hidden from view.
Highly appealing geometry
Extravagant shapes and detailing
Lines of symmetry, parallel lines etc.
Appealing market trends
Current trends on instagram, tiktok etc.
WHAT IS THIS PROJECT ABOUT?
In this project, we aim to bring nature to teenagers who are constantly surrounded by technology.
Regarding outdoor time, the existing literature has suggested that outdoor play and nature-based experiences are linked with better adolescent mental health.
Case Study
I will create a plant pot and add technology to it, using several skills, such as listed in this mindmap.
TARGET AUDIENCE
Teenagers, from ages 13-15.
The graph says that teenagers aged 13-15 spend less time outdoors and more on their devices. This is why they are the targeted audience, as studies show that students are healthier, happier, smarter and creative when they have a connection to nature. - Columbia University Climate School
I want to create this product for this age group because I relate to them, I think I can create the best product for them based on my experience and preferences as well.
Those who enjoy gardening, but struggle to keep track of the water the plant needs.
A new survey says, that half of the people don't own house plants because they simply don't know how to take care of them.
Survey link
Digital native - those who are grown up in the technological advancements era and know how to use smartphones from an early age.
This makes it easier for them to use technology more than anything else.
Those who engage with technology too much, and they want to try a new hobby.
Teenagers spend about 8.5 hours on their screens per day. A 2017 study suggests that teens ages of 13-18 spend most of this time on their phone in their bedroom, alone and distressed.
Study link
PROBLEM
This generation engages with technology too often
School is affected because of addiction to screens.
Negative toll on mental and physical health
Obesity; short-sightedness, long-sightedness
Negative toll on sleep cycle.
Arguments with parents regarding screen time.
Many people, of all age groups forget when to water their plants
That is why I am implementing a micro:bit, to keep track of that.
Social ability can be hindered because of excessive screen time.
Regarding outdoor time, the existing literature has suggested that outdoor play and nature-based experiences are linked with better adolescent mental health.
Case Study
In the future, the fate of the world will depend on the younger generation.
MANUFACTURE
We will use the 3D printer & Fusion 360 to create this.
I will create the model on Fusion 360, and then connect it to the 3D printer to make it into a reality.
I will use various tools on Fusion 360, such as "Loft", "Offset plane", "Combine", "Hatch", "Intersect", "Pattern", "Revolve", "Pattern and twist."
Coding the micro:bit
CONSTRAINTS
Size
Must not exceed the dimensions: 80x80x80mm
A small plant pot is easier to handle, because of the limited space available in HK houses. This product allows teenagers to connect to nature, no matter their living conditions.
The wall thickness of the model must be in the range of 2-4mm.
This saves time when 3D printing.
This also saves material.
Makes the plant pot lighter and easier to carry.
Anthropometrics
Button size must allow finger to slip in perfectly.
The plant pot must have a good grip customised for the user so that it is easy to carry.
3D printer
3D printers constraints (link)
.
Every 3D printing process has a standard minimum wall thickness. In general, it's impossible to print very thin features. This is very challenging to do so even for the most advanced printer.
I need to make sure to keep this in mind, to make sure that my design doesn't include a particularly thin element.
Every 3D model must be completely manifold (watertight). A non-manifold 3D model might cause the print to have inconsistent layers, holes or other errors.
I will have to be aware while creating the design on Fusion360, to make sure to not include many holes for my design so that the model is mostly watertight.
Related to function, the soil and the water will be able to stay in the plant pot if the model is watertight.
FUNCTION
It will help teenagers connect to nature.
The plant pot has to meet the basic functions to be able to be the most functional in terms of helping the plant thrive. Possible considerations for functional pots:
Drainage
I can possibly create a plant pot with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the roots, which can eventually lead to root rot.
Weight and Mobility
I will need to consider the weight of the pot if needed to move frequently. Heavy ceramic or terracotta pots may not be practical for large plants. However, to fulfill this I need to know the material and size constraints. (Check "material" and "constraints")
Watertight
As mentioned in the constraints, the plant pot can't consist of too many holes as for the design, as the 3D printer might mess up, but it terms of function, the soil and water may leak out of the pot. Now that isn't a very functional or good plant pot.
Implement a moisture sensor (microbit)
I will need to insert a micro bit into my plant pot, that means that I will need to create a design which will allow me to conveniently place the micro bit into the pot. The micro bit will be able to inform the owner on when to possibly water the plant, this will demonstrate the connection between technology and nature to encourage teenagers to engage in outdoor activities more.
SUSTAINABILITY
3D printer
The material used (PLA) is eco-friendly.
The time used for 3D printing should be less than 10 hours, to save energy.
Fusion 360
With the Makersite add on, environmental impact can be reduced. By calculating a design's environmental and cost impact, designers can design sustainable and cost-effective products
MATERIAL
3D printer
Polylactic Acid (PLA): PLA is a bio-degradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugar cane. It is one of the most popular materials used in 3D printing due to its ease of use and environmentally friendly properties.
Micro:bit
is a pocket-sized computer that introduces you to how software and hardware work together. It has an LED light display, buttons, sensors and many input/output features that you can program and physically interact with. The latest micro:bit adds sound sensing and playback capabilities.
STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Systems can be adapted to create solutions that address new trends and market needs.
BRANDING
Logo - so that users can recognize the product's quality with the brand.
Must be simple, relevant to plant and recognisable so that it is easy to market.
