PROTOTYPE TESTING
THE FRAME
Upon completion of the frame and installation of the four containers, we tested the seals of each joint by running water through the first container and allowing it to travel through each cell, eventually exiting through the discharge.
Somewhat to our surprise, the o-rings held an unexpectedly tight seal, and no further modifications or corrections were needed. The water flow was also traced by pouring in a small amount of coffee into the first container. As suggested in the video (right), the absence of baffles/barriers allowed water to flow from one chamber to the next without being given sufficient time to properly diffuse. However, this is a non-issue, as the prototype design includes the placement of plants and other media in each container, which will naturally disperse the water. Click here for details on construction of the frame. |
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THE RAFT
A buoyancy test of the raft conducted at Sweet Springs provided both expected and unexpected results. When the containers are empty, the system floats with impressive balance (see below left). When filled with water, the raft becomes completely submerged several inches, which was expected due to the additional 40+ pounds of water weight. Additionally, it was discovered that when filled, the system has trouble maintaining balance (tilts to one side). However, we suspect that this effect would be mitigated when water is continuously fed through the system, given it an opportunity to correct itself.
Click here for details on construction of the raft.
THE TRICKLING FILTER
The trickling filter was tested on solid ground for seal quality, water dispersion, and flow rate. For demonstration purposes (see video below), a small 1 HP submersible pond pump powered by a portable jump starter was used to draw water from a container below. The system worked to our expectations, though how it may operate while floating on water and using a different pumping mechanism remains a mystery.
Click here for details on construction of the trickling filter.
WATER TREATMENT
Unfortunately, due to the short duration of the course, the prototype was never tested for water treatment effectiveness, as the system requires the growth of biofilms (which takes several weeks) to function properly. Nevertheless, our research suggests that the system would be effective in treating and aerating the water. To what extent, however, remains unknown.