RepRap Chinampa

Passive self-watering 3D-printable floating vegetable pot, inspired by the chinampa (floating garden bed).

3D Printing Notes

3D Printer (Hardware) Configuration/Modifications

The models have been successfully printed in Natural PLA on a Prusa Mk3S+ using a 0.4mm nozzle with an upgraded part cooling duct (See https://www.printables.com/model/906613-highv-part-cooling-duct-for-prusa-i3-mk3s)

NOTE: The standard brass nozzle is not considered food-safe, as it wears out. A stainless-steel or titanium nozzle is recommended if you are even considering printing with food in mind.¹

Print Profile / Slicing

The models have been successfully printed using the following profile with "vase mode" enabled. Note that the profile is for a 0.8 mm nozzle, but have been physically tested on a 0.4 mm nozzle.

Nozzle diameter: 0.8 mm nozzle
Layer height: 0.3 mm
Top fill pattern: Concentric
Bottom fill pattern: Concentric
Infill speed: 5 mm/s
Solid infill speed: 5 mm/s
Top solid infill speed: 5 mm/s
First layer speed: 5 mm/s
Max print speed: 30 mm/s
Overhang speed:
    0% overlap(bridge): 15 mm/s
    25% overlap: 1 mm/s
    50% overlap: 1 mm/s
    75% overlap: 2 mm/s
Extrusion multiplier: 1.2
Nozzle temperature:
    First layer: 230 C
    Other layers: 230 C
Bed temperature:
    First layer: 60 C
    Other layers: 60 C
Fan speed:
    Min: 100%
    Max: 100%
Lift height: 0.8 mm

Attributions

This project was either built on or inspired by the works of

• Chinampas pioneered by the native Aztec tribes and farmlands of southwestern region of the Valley of Mexico
• Self-watering rectangular planter
• Avocado Boat - minimalistic
• Parametric Net Pot (CC-BY-SA-3.0)
• The RepRap movement

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License

1: https://help.prusa3d.com/article/food-safe-fdm-printing_112313