Control panel switches
Electrostatic grass
Crane mechanism
Geoff unpacked the new electrostatic grass applicator. It's the unit we saw demonstrated at ExpoNG, made by Grass Scene. It runs off a standard 9v dry cell and generates 15,000v, which it discharges into fibres via a threaded stud in the main container.
We hadn't purchased any glue with the kit, but did a trial with standard PVA and a 'tacky PVA' sold by Hobbycraft. This, we hoped would be similar to the special glue sold by Green Scene. Geoff applied both glues to a 'hidden' area and scattered some left-over fibre. We were not impressed - the fibres fell flat.
Pt II - Recalling the demo we saw, instead of copious amounts of glue, the tacky glue was then laid very thinly and 'Bingo!', we were in business. Geoff then tested different areas, with different techniques.
We also noticed that the pot of fibre that Geoff was using contained a selection of fibres, of different lengths and not many long ones. This all added to the experience that we know has to be built up in order to get just the effects we will need for different areas. We will also have to go back to Gordon Gravetts book, for advice.
Some of them worked and others didn't, but practice makes perfect.
Stephen continued to fit the new switches in the control panel. 1st remove a toggle switch, drill out a new 16mm hole, fit the new switch and transfer the wires. Finally, run a 12v supply to the LED pins of the switches. The job was completed just before packing-up time, so testing will have to wait until next week, but even the un-illuminated switches look good.
Laurence continued to work on the crane mechanism. We must find out how he's actually getting on and snap him doing it, soon.
