Yes, I have a plan. Sort of. Well, there are things that I know I have to do, like construct the sculpture that will have the solar cells on it (Which I’ve done). And then there are the materials I need to collect for the other part of my thesis. So, there are a lot of knows and known unknowns, but the unknown unknowns that are a real wrench in the machine. My biggest ambition for my work plan is to leave myself enough time to address any unknowns that land in my lap. The work plan diagram below is more of a visual indicator to me to show me where there is overlap and give me some sense of timing.
Research
At the moment, my research has mostly involved materials and electrical components. For example, I have had to decide on the functionality of my sculpture and research technical solutions to making that happen. Good thing is, there is a lot of documentation on the web for DIY solar projects. For my other part of my thesis, I have found myself looking up sustainable materials as well as non-recyclable materials to help focus my idea.
Design
My goal is to have the design aspects of my thesis locked down in the next few weeks. I am sure there will be slight tweaking along the way but I hope not to spend more than 8 weeks on core designs.
Prototyping
Already begun! I already have most of the materials that I need to continue this part of the process. For the sculpture, I have constructed the structure and shape that will be covered in solar cells. There is a chance that I may be able to land some solar cells that are different from the ones I already have on hand so I may hold off on that part of the process. For my “eco-bricks,” I have the resin I need to make the casts but I have yet to make the molds. Baby steps. Additionally, I still need to gather the non-recyclable materials to mix in with the resin.
Testing
Oh, some day I’ll get there. I need to build it first! One thing that I have been able to do is some preliminary tests of the solar cells that I do have. One other thing that I will have to test are the circuits that need to be made for the sculpture.
Papers
Sigh … my biggest hangup. This will be an ongoing process. I figure this begun after the first day of thesis class and I am sure will continue on to the end (probably last minute).
Presentation
I am not so concerned with this. After spring break I should be far enough along on prototyping and some preliminary testing to really get a good sense of how to present my thesis. Once I have some of the physical objects iin hand it will just be a lot easier for me to articulate the work. For example, it’s hard for me to talk about a sculpture that generates electricity when I don’t know how much it can produce. With some sense of the sculptures capabilities, I will be more able to talk about the different ways in which the energy can be used. Not sure if I am powering a light bulb or a laptop!