LED Planter
The purpose of this project is to construct a planter made of ABS plastic. The planter needs to contain 3 pots that are 10cm by 10cm which have herbs inside. The LED light strip needs to act as a grow light for the herbs. The planter will be placed in an environment such as a kitchen where it will be easily accessible.
Research
For my planter I wanted to create a minimalistic and elegant design that would fit into a modern house. I kept my design to geometry shapes as it was easier to cut out of the ABS plastic. I also wanted to include a self-watering system to ensure the plants get a constant supply of water. Therefore, I didn't need a drainage tray. I used recycled bottles for my lants as I didn't want water spilling everywhere. Finally, I chose 3 ideas and the simplified it to 1.
Final Design
Development
Below are images from our discussion in class about our first prototypes. We got into groups and presented our ideas letting our peers give us constructive criticism. We were tasked to make 3 development models the choose one for our final. We also went down to the workshop to learn to solder our LED lights.
First, I created three 10cm by 10cm boxes to hold my plants. I then cut 3 recycles plastic bottles and turned the top part downwards into the base of the bottom. In the lid I made a hole and then threaded thick rope through and into the top of the bottle. I filled that bottle with soil and planted my herbs. I repeated this three times. I then created a rectangular base and a rectangular roof for the LED light. I traced out the sides and stuck the bottom and top onto each. I then put water at the bottom part of my pot. I used strong glue, a metal ruler, scissors and a craft knife.
Different Angles
Reflection
Overall this project taught me so many new skills. The most difficult part however was cutting the Abs plastic. I believe my further research for watering methods made my planter improve usage wise as it needs to be watered less often as it has self-watering. My one concern is that I didn't doubly the Abs on the sides of my planter therefore resulting in a wobbly and tilted side view.
