This repository contains the design assets for the publication Open-source cold and hot scientific sheet press for investigating polymer-based material properties, which details the development of an adaptable, open-source platform for polymer sheet pressing.".
The Open Source Scientific Sheet Press is a mechanical device engineered for converting plastic waste into flat sheets of recycled plastic. Drawing inspiration from existing models like Precious Plastics, this platform is designed with adaptability, flexibility, and sustainability as core principles. This repository contains the main resources for the design of the physical press and it's manufacturing.
- Adaptability: Engineered to work with a diverse range of plastic materials.
- Scalability: Modular design allows for easy scaling to meet various production needs.
- Flexibility: Utilizes open-source and off-the-shelf components, with comprehensive documentation and multiple system topologies for customization.
- Material Recycling: Transforms plastic waste into reusable sheets.
- Product Manufacturing: Ideal for the production of flat plastic components across various applications.
- Research and Development: Serves as a testbed for material properties and novel production methods.
- 5x5' Canadian Standardized Sheet Press: This version will meet industrial standards within the province of Ontario.
- Expanding System Topologies: Work is ongoing to offer more system variations based on desired specifications and features.
- Vacuum Forming Integration: Plans to incorporate vacuum forming capabilities, expanding the range of products that can be manufactured from the recycled plastic sheets.
- Automation and Industry 4.0: Future iterations will focus on integrating smart technologies for autonomous operation, real-time data analytics, and IoT capabilities.
- Comprehensive Sourcing: Plans to provide sourcing information tailored to various locales, considering regional regulations, standards, and availability.
- Reengineering High-Cost Components: Long-term goal to redesign non-open-source and expensive components to meet required standards and certifications.
This repository will include multiple iterations and variations of the sheet press, acting as a living document for continuous development and enhancements.
For detailed documentation, consult the respective folders and files within this repository.
The Free Appropriate Sustainable Technology (FAST) research group, led by Professor Joshua Pearce, is based at Western University and focuses on driving sustainability innovations. The group works on a myriad of projects ranging from solar photovoltaic technology to alternative food to open-source hardware to distributed recycling and additive manufacturing (DRAM).
This Open Source Sheet Press project is an initiative led by the FAST group, aligning with our broader goals of sustainable development and open-source technology. We are focused on developing solutions that not only contribute to recycling and sustainable manufacturing but also push the boundaries of what's possible through continuous research and innovation.
For more information on the FAST group, please visit FAST on Appropedia.