One of the goals of our CEB development is to neo-commercialize it: provide an open source business model for producing the machines, where all enabling information is in the public domain. No strings attached.
To do this, we’ll be performing thorough testing of the machine in January. Then we’ll build a second prototype for analyzing replicability and ergonomics of fabrication. Then we will compose a fabrication facility, for producing turnkey products, and for providing weekend, hands-on fabrication workshops. We will eventually automate fabrication with the type of computer controlled cutting and drilling capacity that Smari is developing, and integrate it with the Multimachine.
Regarding the second prototype, we have a great collaboration opportunity. Michael Koch, a senior mechanical engineering student from University of Missouri, Columbia, visited us yesterday at Factor E. He is interested in building a second prototype for his senior project. He will come up with technical drawings and perform finite element analysis for structural optimization – as part of further documentation. That is to say, we’ll be able to calculate the number of bricks that can be made before the machine falls apart. We are aiming for a million – or enough for about 50 homes. At that point, all parts can be replaced – as part of the design-for-disassembly concept.
That’s great news, especially since Mike is interested in working with us after he graduates. He’s got some bills to pay off, but we are considering popping out a few more CEB machines to take care of that. Material costs are $1k, so great enterprise opportunity exists.
If you are also interested in a university or applied project, contact us. The CEB spans many disciplines: architecture, landscape architecture, structural engineering, product design, information architecture, process design, industrial ecology, communications, sustainable technology, open source economic development, management, business, and others. The more people doing this, the better for the world.
