Objective: To create a fully autonomous method of recycling PET source material into usable 3D printer filament.
Background: In conjunction with Senior Design (Engineering Design VII & VIII) at Stevens Institute of Technology.
Group Members include Megan Dion, Gabrielle Khoury, Nathan Lancia, Michael Reinhart, Alec Rybarski, and Eva Santos. Project Advisor is Mishah U. Salman of the Mechanical Engineering Department.
Methodology: The team is currently weighing concept design ideas and individual components required to achieve the requirements. Currently, the team is delineating between the use of a shredder, grinder, and/or slicer to deconstruct PET source material. In addition, the group is determining the overall production process of the filament with full automation as the ultimate goal.
Milestone #1 is a Design Proposal and Presentation to the Mechanical Engineering Department due October 3 and 5.Â
Expected Results: The group is tasked with designing a concept to meet the determined requirements, improve initial design through technical analyses, troubleshoot any issues that may arise, and ultimately create a functional prototype that can be shared at the Innovation Expo in May 2024. The team will also take part in the Ansary Elevator Pitch Competition for a grand prize of $10,000.
Costs: The design of a functional prototype is limited by a $700 budget from the Mechanical Engineering Department, pending external sponsorship and additional funding.