Last week's Guest Speaker: Simon Schmidthe, Substation 33

Posted by Franz Huber on Mar 11, 2017
 
Sometimes I meet somebody who clearly demonstrates that there are people who are more switched on than me, and sometimes I meet somebody who makes me feel all nostalgic.  The latter happens when a guy starts to talk about periods when 16-bit CPUs and 8 Kb were the hottest stuff in computing (Kilobytes - NOT Gigabytes! We talk about 1985). But this was the first time I can recall when both these emotions happened to come at the one time:
 
Simon Schmidthe from Substation 33 (that's him on the left, holding a replica of a T-Rex skull he printed using one of his 3-D printers) demonstrated how his organization is engaging Work for the Dole and even disabled people to make 3-D Printers, using recycled computer components.  Yes, a 3-D Printer using a 16-bit CPU, some components such as rails and stepper motors pulled out of old printers.  The total cost is about $63.00.  Come again? Yes, $63.00. "The most complex component is the software" Simon elaborated, "but that is 'Open Source' software which is free". 

But they also make other stuff, such as an automatic sign which Councils can place in flood prone areas.  The device contains a floating mechanism which automatically causes a "Road Flooded" sign to flash and automatically notifies the Council computer and authorities that a particular road is now flooded and closed.  And what are you using for power? Wait for this:
 
 
Solar cells.  Yeah, sure, and what about if the flooding happens at night? You wouldn't guess it: recycled laptop batteries.  "Laptop batteries are highly toxic and thus should under no circumstances go into landfill. Yet, most failed laptop batteries have only one cell that is faulty" Simon explained. "We can test and recycle most of the remaining cells and produce a highly functioning device" he said. And of course this will save the Councils money, and - most importantly - will ultimately save lives if a flashing warning sign stops somebody from driving into a flooded river.
 
Would anyone have assessed the true value of engaging unemployed and disadvantaged people and instil in them the belief that they can do things, that they can believe in themselves, that they can be useful members of the community? Why aren't the politicians of all three levels of Government beating a path to his door? After all, Councils are responsible for road maintenance and (toxic) rubbish, State Governments are responsible for health, including the mental health of disadvantaged people and the Feds are responsible for... - never mind, it probably doesn't cost enough, or they have to first have an enquiry. Yes, they do know Substation 33 exists. Forgive me, I sometimes forget that Rotary is not supposed to mention politics.
 
(Picture right: One of Substation 33's 3-D Printers - all from recycled materials.)