3d Printable Modular Hydroponics - Open Source

The Lego-inspired hydroponics system boasts a truly modular design, allowing users to tailor and expand their setup to perfectly suit any space or requirement. With the convenience of 3D printing, components can be effortlessly printed at home or sourced from the thriving community. Being open source, this system invites everyone to collaborate, contribute, and help the design evolve. At its core, the system utilises the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), a tried-and-true method that ensures plants receive their essential nutrients efficiently. Committed to sustainability, the design not only consumes less water compared to traditional gardening but also champions the use of reusable components, drastically cutting down on waste.

Supplies

• any CAD software ( I prefer using fusion360 for this project )
• 3D printer (FDM)
• Slicing software (e.g., Cura, PrusaSlicer)
• Submersible pump
• 3'' net pot
• hydroponics nutrients
• 1/2''-pipe

Step 1: Step 1: Understanding NFT Hydroponics

Hydroponics, a method of growing plants without soil, has been around for centuries, captivating everyone from ancient civilizations to modern-day urban farmers. At the heart of this innovative cultivation lies the Nutrient Film Technique, or NFT.

NFT hydroponics is a subset of hydroponics where plants are grown with their roots exposed to a thin film of nutrient-rich water. This water continuously flows, ensuring plants receive both the essential nutrients they need and access to oxygen, a critical factor often overlooked in other hydroponic methods. With no soil to anchor them, plants rely on various structures, like net pots or channels, to support them while their roots dangle and absorb nutrients from the flowing water below.

But why bring 3D printing into the mix? The intersection of 3D printing and NFT hydroponics is a match made in agritech heaven.

1. Customization: Every gardener has unique needs. 3D printing allows for tailor-made designs suited to specific plant varieties, spatial constraints, or aesthetic preferences.

  

2. Scalability: Starting small and then expanding? No problem. With 3D printing, you can create additional components as your garden grows, ensuring they fit seamlessly with existing parts.

  

3. Material Efficiency: Traditional manufacturing can be wasteful. 3D printing uses only the material needed, reducing waste. Plus, with materials like PETG, you're assured of food-safe components for your hydroponic system.

  

4. Rapid Prototyping: Trial and error are part of gardening. If a particular design isn't working, it's easy to tweak and reprint. This iterative process ensures continuous improvement and optimisation.

  

5. Accessibility: 3D printing democratises the creation process. Anyone, anywhere, with access to a 3D printer can design and print components for an NFT hydroponic system, bypassing traditional barriers of cost and availability.

In essence, NFT hydroponics is a testament to human ingenuity, optimising plant growth by mimicking and enhancing nature's methods. When combined with 3D printing, it paves the way for a future where anyone can be a gardener, irrespective of their location, space, or resources.

Step 2: Sketching Foundations for NFT

Sketching is a fundamental step in the design process, acting as a visual bridge between an idea and its realization. For an NFT hydroponics system, sketching serves several purposes:

1. Visualization: Before diving into complex 3D models or system logistics, a sketch provides a clear picture of how each component of the hydroponics setup interacts and fits together.

2. Iteration: Adjustments are more straightforward on paper. Sketching allows for quick modifications, saving time in later design stages.

3. Communication: A sketch can effectively convey ideas, making discussions with team members or potential collaborators more productive.

When starting to sketch:

- Research existing NFT hydroponics designs for inspiration.

- Identify the main components your system requires, such as channels, plant holders, and pumps.

- Begin with a rough, freeform drawing to capture the general idea.

- Gradually refine the sketch, considering component sizes, water flow, plant spacing, and maintenance accessibility.

- Label each part of your sketch to assist in later stages, like digital design.

- Lastly, seeking feedback on your sketches can provide fresh perspectives and highlight potential areas of improvement.

In essence, sketching for an NFT hydroponics system is about exploration, refinement, and clarity. It sets the stage for all subsequent design and implementation steps.

Step 3: Digital Design in Fusion 360

Streamlined NFT Design for 3-inch Pots: Simplifying Hydroponics

In the realm of hydroponics, the push for simplified and user-friendly designs is paramount. Recognising this, I embarked on a mission to design an NFT system tailored for 3-inch pots. The core objectives were straightforward: simplicity and ease of use.

Key Features of the Design:

1. Tight fit Components: Ensuring the setup is hassle-free and intuitive.

2. SolidWorks Centric: The primary design work was conducted within the SolidWorks environment, leveraging its robust toolset for precision and efficiency.

3. Manufacturing Consideration: Time is of the essence. By simulating the manufacturing process, I gauged the production duration, ensuring the design wasn't just simple but also quick to produce.

In essence, this NFT design for 3-inch pots encapsulates the essence of modern hydroponics: making green technology accessible, efficient, and user-friendly.

Step 4: Transitioning From Design to Print With PLA

Key Preparations Before Printing:

1. STL Export: As always, start by exporting your design from Fusion 360 as an STL file, which is standard for 3D printing.

2. Slicing for PLA with Water-tight Precision: When setting up your slicer, consider the following settings tailored for PLA:

Material Settings: Choose PLA from your slicer's material list.

Layer Height: Opt for a smaller layer height, around 0.1mm to 0.2mm. This produces finer layers, enhancing watertightness.

Wall Thickness: Increase the wall thickness. A thicker wall (around 1.2mm or more) minimises the chances of water seeping through tiny gaps.

Top and Bottom Layers: Increase the number of top and bottom layers. Consider 6–8 layers to ensure a solid, impermeable shell.

  -Infill: A higher infill percentage (around 80%–100%) can enhance watertightness, but it will use more material and increase print time.

Print Speed: Slower print speeds can improve layer adhesion. Consider reducing the speed by 10–20% from your usual settings.

 Temperature:* Ensure the hotend temperature is optimal for PLA (usually between 190°C and 220°C). A proper temperature ensures better layer bonding.

Bed Adhesion: Use a brim or raft to ensure the print sticks well to the bed and doesn't warp, which can introduce gaps.

By adhering to these tailored settings and steps, you can maximize the chances of getting a water-tight print using PLA.

Step 5: Crafting Your NFT Hydroponic Marvel

After the meticulous task of designing and printing, the next exhilarating phase is assembly. Like a well-orchestrated symphony, each component has a role to play in the harmonious functioning of your NFT hydroponics system.

Assembly Guide:

1. Preparation:

Clean Components: Before assembly, ensure that all printed parts are clean and free from any printing debris or residues. A soft brush or compressed air can be effective.

Gather Tools: While the design prioritises simplicity, having some basic tools like rubber mallets, screws, or connectors might be handy.

2. tray Positioning:

Location: Choose a location that can comfortably accommodate the entire setup and is convenient for monitoring and maintenance.

  Stability: The tray should rest on a stable surface, ensuring it doesn't wobble or shift. Using rubber pads or non-slip mats can enhance stability.

Tilt Mechanism: For optimal water flow in an NFT system, the tray should have a slight incline. You can achieve this by elevating one end slightly. Using adjustable legs or simple props can help. Ensure the tilt promotes a gentle, consistent flow of the nutrient solution across the entire tray.

3. Plant Holders:

Space: Distribute the plant holders uniformly across the tray, ensuring each plant will have ample space to grow without competing for nutrients.

  Securing in Place: Depending on your design, the holders might snap, slide, or fit into designated positions on the tray. Ensure they're firmly positioned. If they feel loose, consider using connectors, clips, or even adhesive pads to enhance stability.

Root Access: The design should allow the plants' roots to dangle freely into the nutrient film below. Verify that the holder doesn't restrict or block this access.

4. Final Inspection:

Water Flow Test: Before adding plants, it's a good idea to run a water flow test. This ensures the nutrient solution circulates as intended and reaches every plant.

  Adjustments: During this test, observe for any areas where water might pool or not reach. Adjust the tilt or position of components as needed.

Remember, the assembly process isn't just about joining parts; it's about ensuring that the entire system works in harmony. Take your time, adjust as needed, and soon you'll have a thriving NFT hydroponics setup ready to nurture your plants.