3D Printer Filament Extruder

Functionality:

• Waste plastic is placed in the funnel, which uses a fan to push the bits downward in a zero-gravity environment.
• Plastic falls into the crevasses of a spinning auger drill bit, which pushes it toward the band heater.
• Voltage readings from a thermocouple are converted into a temperature value, then used to regulate the heater as needed.
• Melted plastic is pushed out of a small nozzle, yielding plastic filament.
• Use the filament in a 3D printer. Break product once finished using. Repeat.

Result:

Our device was featured in CBS News and placed 2nd nationally in a NASA TI contest.

Our promotional video for the contest.