QuarterHull #MakeItFloat

thingiverse

This is my inaugural entry into the #MakeItFloat challenge and the first project I've undertaken. Designed using OpenSCAD, it was printed at .2mm layer height and 10% infill utilizing ABS. The printing process involved supports and a raft on a Flashforge Creator Pro, with Simplify3D software employed for optimal results. My goal was to create a large model that could comfortably fit within the capabilities of my Flashforge Creator Pro, and I'm eager to experiment with making it even longer or taller in order to accommodate more weight. The initial photograph showcases the boat floating steadily beneath a substantial load of loose quarters weighing $10 (approximately 226 grams or roughly half a pound) centered within the channel, accompanied by two AAA batteries totaling about 12 grams each for a grand total of 250 grams (.55 pound). Before adding the batteries, the pontoons were fully submerged; after adding them, you can observe that the water level is merely below (approximately 5 mm or one-fifth inch) the top of the boat. The second photograph captures the boat at about 20% completion, offering a glimpse inside the two pontoons and the two air chambers situated beneath the quarter channels within the main hull. Version 1 - This was my initial attempt, which quickly revealed that it wouldn't be able to hold more than $10 worth of quarters as I had initially envisioned. The design features channels for securing quarters in place on their sides. Version 2 - A significant upgrade, this version can easily accommodate a roll of $10 worth of quarters, just like the first model. It also incorporates channels for holding the quarters relatively stable if not packaged into a roll. In contrast to the previous version, these channels are turned sideways here; I felt that five channels were more than sufficient, with each one capable of containing an entire roll of quarters. However, modifications will certainly be needed to allow the boat to float under such a heavy load. Version 3 - Not much has changed in this iteration beyond the model being enlarged to its maximum feasible size on my FlashForge Creator Pro. This update goes beyond mere scaling; it also incorporates updated source code to ensure that everything is properly scaled. Unfortunately, I have not printed this version yet as I've been busy working on other projects, but I intend to post a photograph and information about the boat's maximum load once I can conduct further testing.