I Love Innovating

I walk into the Innovation Lab and the first thing I see is Sumanth greeting me with a big smile. Usually my one other classmate comes into the room after me. We brainstorm multiple possible models and draw them on the whiteboard.

One project we’re modeling on Rhino 5 is tiny finger skateboards for the students in the PALS program. This is actually a gift for them because they make us goodies like muffins and bread every Friday. Hopefully they’re as excited about this project as we are. Rhino 5 is a software where you can create 3d and 2d models. After we’re done modeling we have a 3d printer that creates the items.

We also have a laser wood cutter. We create 2d models on Rhino 5 of and laser cut it onto a piece of wood. It’s cool because you’re able to make whatever YOU want. The laser cutting process is much faster than you’d expect plus it’s fun to watch.

Our main project we’re currently working on is creating a machine that will be useful to our local Woodstock Farmers Market. This machine allows them to mix wood shaving and coffee grounds, which will help hide the scent of their food waste. Hiding the scent makes it so critters won’t invade the compost and eat the food. The food waste is then given to local farmers to feed to their own animals, and the rest turns into compost.

Currently the machine consists of multiple parts. First is a tub that holds the coffee grounds and wood shavings which are placed inside the whole thing. The next is what mixes it up, which is going to be bars. There is going to be either a handle attached to the bars which you can spin around to mix it up, or a programmed button you can press that mixes it for you. The bars are going to be detachable so you can easily get out the mixture. There is also a detachable layer on the bottom you can pull out, kind of like you’re cleaning a hamster cage, then some legs on the bottom of the tub to hold it up. This whole machine will be made out of wood.

This class allows us to grow as a people for several reasons. One, because we’re able to create machines with our own hands and learn architecture. Two, because what we are making actually has a positive impact on our community, which will help us grow as people, as well as connecting our school / community more. And, finally, because with all these amazing benefits, it’s still a regular class and it will give us credits towards graduating.