Print and assemble this cartesian diver, named after famed French philosopher, mathematician and scientist Rene Descartes.
Demonstrating the mechanics of buoyancy and the ideal gas law, this toy has fascinated young and old for hundreds of years.
In addition to your printed parts the only materials you'll need is a balloon, an empty large soda bottle and some glue.
The only tools you'll need are a bowl, some sandpaper and some scissors.
It makes and entertaining and attractive demonstration piece and a great gift.
Theres a full video on how to construct Aquabot on youtube at http://youtu.be/5lzMfchYDaM
The Cartesian Diver strikes at the heart of "Make it Float" dealing with the physical property of buoyancy and a significant example of how it finds application in the real world. When I first pondered entering the contest, I became intrigued by the underlying physical property that allows items that are actually denser than water, to float upon it. A little research and I was fascinated to discover the long trail of scientific interest in buoyancy and the number of scientist, both amateur and professional that have leant a hand to furthering our knowledge of this essential component of the civilized world.
I had originally intended to go with the contest's suggestion of using coins to achieve neutral buoyancy, but it would have resulted in a diver that would have been displeasingly large in a soda bottle container. For that reason I suggest that the washers i recommend for counter-buoyancy be considered as currency in a mystical and mythical realm, where they are used by tiny creatures for day to day commerce. Hey, the contest DID suggest one could use non-US coins!
Its been a real battle to get this entry completed in time... I can't really believe I managed to pull if off with a day to spare.
My enthusiasm for 3d printing extends beyond simply building a functional part. I try to develop projects that while not necessarily ready for store shelves, incorporate design and construction principles that make them attractive and useful.
Were it not for the looming deadline (did I mention how surprised I am that I actually finished this in time?), I would have made some changes to the basic design. A somewhat more ornate pedestal for Aquabot to perch upon and I would have separated the diver at the pedestal so that the use of another color would provide a more significant transition than is achieved with just making the bottom plate another color. Had I known about it before I was well into the project, I would also have liked to have swap Aquabot's whole head for the Antique Diving helmet at http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:128783
Nevertheless, its been a fun ride, and I hope you enjoy making your own. I've already got a few nieces and nephews that seem quite keen to have their own.