Minor Modifications to Water Feature #1

thingiverse

After some time, I successfully set up my water feature, designed by gzumwalt. This version isn't drastically different from the original design; only two parts were slightly modified. In my adaptation of the motor splash cover, it securely encloses the motor and extends to reach the bottom of the motor mount. To prevent water from entering, I closed the open reed switch shaft at the top of the cup. All non-printed components were sourced in the UK: magnets from eBay, a "small motor" (YG13P) from Maplin, and a "min reed switch" (N30AN) also from Maplin. To create the latch, I used a strip cut from an empty baked bean tin, folding it in half twice before securing it tightly with pliers. Initially, I experienced failure when adjusting the latch strip, which led to snapping it off and positioning it slightly higher for easier manipulation with pliers. While testing with a 3V mains charger, I faced issues after 45 minutes: the reed switch started sticking due to high current draw (approximately 800mA at 3V). The motor continued running even without magnets or latch strip, only stopping upon tapping the reed switch housing shaft. Currently, I operate the motor using a single D cell battery, but its lifespan is uncertain. To address this, I plan to add a 2R7 3W resistor in series with the motor, which should lower the voltage to around 1.5V (similar to a single 1.5V battery) and decrease current flow. This supply maintains an adequate water flow rate that surpasses the leakage from the bottom of the cup.