11. Open Source Hardware - From Fibers to Fabric¶
Research & Ideation¶
We began our design process by exploring the modification of an automotive paint gun for biomaterial surface creation. We studied the mechanical components of fiberglass guns and gel paints, researched different models, downloaded a paint gun model, and identified necessary fabrication parts.
References & Inspiration¶
Anat Uziely, Wool as a Bonding Agent
- Tyla,Sand Dress
- Coperni Slip Dress Spray-Painted
- Fiber Dress by Anastasia Pistofidou
Tools¶
Materials¶
| Qty | Description | Price | Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | M3 x 12mm screw | $0.39 | https://es.rs-online.com/web/p/tornillos-allen/0281007 | |
| 1 | Felting needles | $9.77 | https://www.mercerlob.com/material/254671/agujas-de-repuesto-gruesas | |
| 2 | M3 x 35mm | $0.39 | https://es.rs-online.com/web/p/tornillos-allen/8229066 | |
| 3 | M3 x 16mm | $0.13 | https://es.rs-online.com/web/p/tornillos-allen/4679818 | |
| 6 | 5.5mm x 2.4mm | $0.41 | https://es.rs-online.com/web/p/tuercas-hexagonales/0524281 | |
| 1 | M3, A4 316 | $0.72 | https://es.rs-online.com/web/p/arandelas/0189620 | |
| 1 | Motor | $12.66 | https://es.rs-online.com/web/p/motores-dc/2389759 | |
| 1 | Mosfet | $3.00 | https://es.rs-online.com/web/p/mosfet/8076692 | |
| 1 | Potentiometer | $3.18 | https://es.rs-online.com/web/p/potenciometros/7703056P | |
| 1 | Rubber band | $1.39 | https://www.amazon.es/cart?ref_=ewc_gtc |
Total: $35.13
Having a quick search on google the prices for a felting gun you can buy are:
- Electric Wool Felting Gun - $129
- Felting Gun Etsy - $54
- Electric Needle Felting Machine - $200
Process¶
During the research phase, we realized that we needed to use all metal connections and, due to the short timeframe of the exercise, we would not be able to obtain our materials in time to make the spray gun. Therefore, we decided to fabricate a model of the paint gun using materials we had in the laboratory. We made different alginate recipes to spray the fabric until we created a surface with a predetermined shape using a mold. The results of this first test were interesting, as we were able to spray alginate with a spray bottle and the fabric recorded the shape of the mold. However, we changed our idea due to difficulty obtaining all the necessary materials during the design week. Nevertheless, we have included the documentation of our initial explorations.
DIY Paint Gun, Germarilis Ruiz / 3D model research Aleksandra Piotrowska
3D slicer, Dhrishya Ramadass
Tutorial & 3D model:¶
Biomaterial Exploration¶
Recipe
- 8g Sodium Alginate
- 1500 ml Water
- Calcium Chloride solution
Alginate recipe, Holly Adams & Germarilis Ruiz
Alginate spray result,Holly Adams & Germarilis Ruiz
Felting Gun¶
Felting Gun,Germarilis Ruiz
After exploring various options for fabricating a paint gun, we decided to make a felting gun. Inspired by Barbara Rakovska's work, we started by thoroughly studying her documentation.
Our instructor, Petra Garajova, requested Barbara's 3D models to print and start the fabrication process. However, upon printing the parts, we realized that some were not to scale and did not fit correctly with electronic components like the motor.
To address these issues, we scaled the parts and redesigned some to improve needle movement and simplify the manufacturing process.
Design steps:¶
- Study the original drawings and understand the design process of Barbara
- Separated and printed the parts from the original model
- Created freehand drawings to visualize the functioning of the parts
- Modeled the parts with correct dimensions and necessary adjustments using Rhinoceros
- Prepared the document for printing
- Printed the new model
- Created the electrical circuit, connected the motor, and assembled all parts
- Created quick visualizations to evaluate the final design
Reference:
Sketch¶
Ideation: Germarilis Ruiz, Petra Garajova & Adai Suriñac
Once we had our initial sketches down, we split up the work. I modeled the felting gun in 3D using Rhinoceros, while Holly, with her electrical engineering know-how, tackled the circuitry. It was such a cool experience working together! Even though we didn't build a high-fidelity prototype, we made one that gave us an understanding of how the machine worked, what we could improve, and how it could be used in the textile design industry.
Renders¶
Felting Gun 3D model, Germarilis Ruiz
3D slicing, Germarilis Ruiz
Circuit¶
Holly Adams
Components:
- 1N22AB MOSFET
- 10K Ohm Rotary Potentiometer
- 4.5 - 15V D.C. Motor
When connected to a power supply of 10V, the circuit pulled a maximum of 0.6A.
Video¶
Holly Adams
3D printing & first prototype¶
Germarilis Ruiz
Germarilis Ruiz, Holly Adams & Adai Surinach
Assembly diagram¶
Assembly diagram by Germarilis Ruiz
- Attach the crank mechanism to the gun body. Use an M3 screw, two washers, and a hex nut to firmly secure the mechanism to the base of the gun body. Ensure the screw is tightened securely, but avoid over-tightening.
- Insert the remaining part of the crank into the motor. This will provide the power needed to drive the firing mechanism.
- Use three short M3 screws to attach the motor to the gun body.
- Insert a longer M3 screw into the front part of the crank. This will help stabilize the crank and ensure smooth operation.
- Install the Needle Base. Slide the needle base into the hole located at the front of the gun base.
- Connect the needle base to the crank mechanism.
- Carefully insert the needles and attach them to the base. Double-check that the needles are aligned correctly and securely fastened.
- Place the rubber band.
- Insert the potentiometer and connect it to the motor. The potentiometer will allow you to adjust the power output of your gun.
Felting Gun Prototype video¶
Conclusion:¶
When testing our first prototype, we realized the need to add a cap to the back of the needles to prevent them from coming off the track.
Also, we have to test the prototype with five needles, because the first prototype, only has one.
Design Team¶
- Germarilis Ruiz Galloza
- Holly Adams
- Dhrishya Ramadass
- Aleksandra Piotrowska
Instructors¶
- Petra Garajova
- Adai Adai Suriñac