Friday, April 18th

With Anisha and Matthew away, the Friday, April 18th meeting included only Cassie and Ashwin. The first task was to test the device in the backyard, simulating the test rig with a regular garden hose. This was the first time we had the opportunity to see the prototype in action. It was encouraging because we managed to get a result when the flow from the hose was high enough. Once it was established that the prototype pump could work, the rest of the testing time was devoted to experimenting with different heights and configuration with the intake valve and water spout. We discovered some important things through trial and error. There appears to be an optimal height to maximize the amount of air that is captured in the collecting tank. Too high and no air was circulated, too low and the flow was too much and the air passed right out of the system. There was also a relationship between how much turbulance we were able to create when the water was collected and how much air was taken in. After testing various flow strengths and set ups, Cassie and Ashwin returned inside to fix some of the problems. First, a trip was made to Osh Hardware to get some replacement washers to improve the air tightness of the collecting chamber. Second, we installed a dowel to hold the output tube straight and vertical. It was attached using rope and twist ties.