Open Source Ecology - User contributions [en]

Aquaculture

2013-08-06T21:26:54Z

Conor: /* Chinampa farming */

{{Category=Food and Agriculture}}
Aquaculture is farming on water. Many of the same principles as farming on land apply, and there can also be synergy between land-based and water-based farming - for example, chickens and ducks will find forage at the edge of the pond. In any system of agriculture based on the interconnections between different organisms, the most productive area will be the edge between two different environments. Therefore, when integrating aquaculture and agriculture it is best to maximize the edge length of the pond; a square pond is a bad idea; one with crinkly edges is much better.

Because fish are cold-blooded, and because water provides buoyancy so they do not have to expend energy to hold themselves up all the time, they are much more energy-efficient organisms than land based animals. Nutrients dissolved in water are more readily absorbed by organisms. For these reasons, aquaculture is 4-20 times more efficient than land-based agriculture in terms of the energy used to make a unit of food and the yield per unit of area. You can, for example, get 12-15kg of food per year from a single taro plant.

Water quality can be controlled to a certain extent by landscape design. Large stones placed in a pond will serve as a heat sink, making the water cooler in hot weather and warmer in cool weather. Growing reeds helps to oxygenate the water. Freshwater reeds grow much faster than any land-based plants can, so make a good source of feed for [[Ruminants|herbivorous animals]]. [[Algae]] often forms the bottom of the food chain in an aquaculture system and goes on to be converted into larger edible organisms. Therefore, an area of still water with tree stumps where algae will grow can be advantageous.

See also [[Aquaponics|aquaponics]], a more controlled method of growing fish, and [[Algae|algae farming]].

==Chinampa farming==
[[File:Chinampa.gif|center]]<br>'''Chimpanas''' were a highly productive means of agriculture developed by the Aztec civilization. They possibly hold the title of the highest-yielding kind of traditional agriculture. They have since been adopted by the permaculture movement.

They consist of a series of alternating canals and narrow artificial islands. This gives you a lot of different areas with different yields -
*The land - this can grow vegetables, trees, chickens etc.
*The surface of the water - this can grow ducks, floating plants such as lotus
*The middle of the water - this can grow fish and aquatic plants
*The bottom of the water - this can grow prawns, catfish etc.
*The edge between the water and the land - this can grow reeds, taro, typha (as chicken feed) etc.
*A trellis above the water - this can grow vine-plants such as grapes, strawberries etc. while shading the water.
These different areas also synergize with each other. The vines drop nutrients into the water. The water provides nutrient for reed crops which feed land-based animals. The ecosystem can become extremely complex, with thousands of useful synergies.

Aztec chinampas were intermittently fertilized with compost and with mud dredged from the bottom of the lake. The water flowing around the island creates a microclimate in which extremes of temperature are mitigated.

Chinampas nowadays usually have canals about 1.5m deep. The Aztecs used major canals (''acalotes'') which were 5m wide and 1.5-4m deep, plus minor canals (''apantles'') which were 1-3m wide and 1m deep.

*http://www.plu.edu/~mayac/building-chinampa/home.html - Good info on building methods
*http://www.chinampas.info/ - A site maintained by a guy who has done PhD research on chinampas
*http://www.apms.org/japm/vol17/v17p74.pdf

==Video: Sepp Holzer's permaculture - ''Aquaculture: Synergy of Land and Water''==
<html><embed id=VideoPlayback src=http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?docid=235437896615994763&hl=en&fs=true style=width:400px;height:326px allowFullScreen=true allowScriptAccess=always type=application/x-shockwave-flash> </embed></html>

==Open-source fish farm==
[[Image:SmallFishFarm.jpg|center|thumb|350px|An [http://www.n55.dk/manuals/fishfarm/fishfarm.html open-source design for a small modular fish farm] has been made available by the opensorcerors at N55.dk. It can be stocked with fish and left floating in any body of water you have on your land. Fish can easily be harvested from the module. Multiple modules can be linked together, according to how much room you have.]]

==Other resources==
*[http://www.kickasstorrents.com/bill-mollison-aquaculture-a-permaculture-perspective-12-hours-mp3-t2285802.html Bill Mollison, 15 hour audio lecure series on aquaculture]
*[http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/5040528/PERMACULTURE__A_Designers_Manual__Bill_Mollison ''Permaculture: A Designer's Manual''] by Bill Mollison. Contains a chapter on aquaculture.
*[http://goodfishbadfish.com.au/ Information About Sustainable Seafood]

Aquaculture

2013-08-06T21:26:10Z

Conor: /* Chinampa farming */

{{Category=Food and Agriculture}}
Aquaculture is farming on water. Many of the same principles as farming on land apply, and there can also be synergy between land-based and water-based farming - for example, chickens and ducks will find forage at the edge of the pond. In any system of agriculture based on the interconnections between different organisms, the most productive area will be the edge between two different environments. Therefore, when integrating aquaculture and agriculture it is best to maximize the edge length of the pond; a square pond is a bad idea; one with crinkly edges is much better.

Because fish are cold-blooded, and because water provides buoyancy so they do not have to expend energy to hold themselves up all the time, they are much more energy-efficient organisms than land based animals. Nutrients dissolved in water are more readily absorbed by organisms. For these reasons, aquaculture is 4-20 times more efficient than land-based agriculture in terms of the energy used to make a unit of food and the yield per unit of area. You can, for example, get 12-15kg of food per year from a single taro plant.

Water quality can be controlled to a certain extent by landscape design. Large stones placed in a pond will serve as a heat sink, making the water cooler in hot weather and warmer in cool weather. Growing reeds helps to oxygenate the water. Freshwater reeds grow much faster than any land-based plants can, so make a good source of feed for [[Ruminants|herbivorous animals]]. [[Algae]] often forms the bottom of the food chain in an aquaculture system and goes on to be converted into larger edible organisms. Therefore, an area of still water with tree stumps where algae will grow can be advantageous.

See also [[Aquaponics|aquaponics]], a more controlled method of growing fish, and [[Algae|algae farming]].

==Chinampa farming==
[[File:Chinampa.gif|center]]<br>'''Chimpanas''' were a highly productive means of agriculture developed by the Aztec civilization. They possibly hold the title of the highest-yielding kind of traditional agriculture. They consist of a series of alternating canals and narrow artificial islands. This gives you a lot of different areas with different yields -
*The land - this can grow vegetables, trees, chickens etc.
*The surface of the water - this can grow ducks, floating plants such as lotus
*The middle of the water - this can grow fish and aquatic plants
*The bottom of the water - this can grow prawns, catfish etc.
*The edge between the water and the land - this can grow reeds, taro, typha (as chicken feed) etc.
*A trellis above the water - this can grow vine-plants such as grapes, strawberries etc. while shading the water.
These different areas also synergize with each other. The vines drop nutrients into the water. The water provides nutrient for reed crops which feed land-based animals. The ecosystem can become extremely complex, with thousands of useful synegies.

Aztec chinampas were intermittently fertilized with compost and with mud dredged from the bottom of the lake. The water flowing around the island creates a microclimate in which extremes of temperature are mitigated.

Chinampas nowadays usually have canals about 1.5m deep. The Aztecs used major canals (''acalotes'') which were 5m wide and 1.5-4m deep, plus minor canals (''apantles'') which were 1-3m wide and 1m deep.

*http://www.plu.edu/~mayac/building-chinampa/home.html - Good info on building methods
*http://www.chinampas.info/ - A site maintained by a guy who has done PhD research on chinampas
*http://www.apms.org/japm/vol17/v17p74.pdf

==Video: Sepp Holzer's permaculture - ''Aquaculture: Synergy of Land and Water''==
<html><embed id=VideoPlayback src=http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?docid=235437896615994763&hl=en&fs=true style=width:400px;height:326px allowFullScreen=true allowScriptAccess=always type=application/x-shockwave-flash> </embed></html>

==Open-source fish farm==
[[Image:SmallFishFarm.jpg|center|thumb|350px|An [http://www.n55.dk/manuals/fishfarm/fishfarm.html open-source design for a small modular fish farm] has been made available by the opensorcerors at N55.dk. It can be stocked with fish and left floating in any body of water you have on your land. Fish can easily be harvested from the module. Multiple modules can be linked together, according to how much room you have.]]

==Other resources==
*[http://www.kickasstorrents.com/bill-mollison-aquaculture-a-permaculture-perspective-12-hours-mp3-t2285802.html Bill Mollison, 15 hour audio lecure series on aquaculture]
*[http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/5040528/PERMACULTURE__A_Designers_Manual__Bill_Mollison ''Permaculture: A Designer's Manual''] by Bill Mollison. Contains a chapter on aquaculture.
*[http://goodfishbadfish.com.au/ Information About Sustainable Seafood]

Moringa

2013-06-21T13:50:38Z

Conor:

{{Category=Growing plants}}
[[File:Moringa.jpg|center]]

''Moringa olifera'' is a tree with magic powers. It grows very fast - 3-5m per year - even in poor soils and can easily be grown from seed or cuttings without much attention. The tree provides many benefits:

*The leaves can be eaten (think of them as a leafy vegetable) and provide as much protein as eggs, 3 times more iron than spinach, 4 times more vitamin A than carrots, 7 times more vitamin C than oranges, 3 times more calcium than milk and 7 times more potassium than bananas, [http://www.miracletrees.org/]
*The fruit is also edible and highly nutritious
*The leaves also make an excellent feed for livestock
*The crushed seeds can be used to purify [[:Category:Water|water]] [http://www.miracletrees.org/moringa_water_purification.html]
*The oil is highly nutritious, can be used as a [[:Category:Biofuel|fuel]] and also has cosmetic uses

Growing instructions can be found [http://www.miracletrees.org/growing_moringa.html here]. Seeds are cheap and can be bought [http://b-and-t-world-seeds.com/alaCarth.asp?searchFor=moringa+oleifera here]. The first shoot will come up about a week after the seed is planted, and a year later you will have a tree several meters high.

http://www.winrock.org/fnrm/factnet/factpub/FACTSH/moringa.htm - Good info on how and where to grow it

CEB Press

2011-10-17T13:24:36Z

Conor: /* Product Ecology */

{{GVCS Header}}

[[File:Machine.jpg|right|400px|thumb|CEB Press (aka "The Liberator")]]
==Overview==
[[File:Liberator_bricks.JPG|right|400px|thumb|Bricks pressed on [[The Liberator]]]]
The '''"Liberator" Compressed Earth Block Press''' is a machine that makes compressed earth blocks ('''CEB'''s).

[[CEB Press/Videos]]

{{Video}}

==Details==
The [[CEB Press]] takes earth/dirt/soil and compresses it tightly to make solid blocks useful for building. Compressed earth blocks have many advantages as a building material: by making the building materials from the readily available dirt on the building site, they eliminate the need to transport bricks from elsewhere, reducing the financial cost and environmental impact of transport. Compressed earth blocks are very strong and insulate well against both heat and sound, making for very energy-efficient building (especially combined with the energy savings from not needing to transport them from offsite). Best of all, the material they use is already on-site and does not need to be purchased -- quite literally, dirt-cheap! See the wiki page on [[Compressed Earth Blocks]] and the [[:Category:CEB|CEB category]] for more details on building using CEBs.

The Liberator has been fully designed and tested by the [[Open Source Ecology]] team. Because the Liberator is an open source technology, you can freely download instructions to build your own from materials you can obtain yourself, or contact ''opensourceecology[at]gmail[dot]com'' to buy a kit or a finished machine.

Building a machine yourself might seem intimidating, but every step of the process is fully documented and the OSE community is available on our [http://openfarmtech.org/forum/ discussion forums] if you need help, advice, or a little hand-holding.

Using the CEB Press, two people can build a 6 foot high (1.83m) round wall, 20 feet (6.1m) in diameter, 1 foot (30cm) thick, in one 8 hour day, though construction time will vary somewhat depending on preparation time, what equipment is available (tractor to prepare the ground and move the blocks where they need to go), the quality of the soil, and other factors. The bigger the block size, the faster a wall can be erected, but at the cost of heavier blocks that are more of a strain to work with. Blocks from ''The Liberator'' average 25 pounds (11.3kg).

see [[CEB Design]] for more information.

==Product Ecology==

[[Image:4b-Constructioneco.png|thumb|600px|center|Construction [[Product Ecology]]]]

{{Product Ecology
|Product={{CEB}}
|From=
*{{Furnace}}
*{{Welder}}
*{{Torch Table}}
*{{Ironworker}}

|Uses=
*{{PowerCube}}
*{{Tractor}}
*[[Earth]]

|Creates=
*[[CEB Bricks]]

|Enables=
*[[Workshop]]
*[[Greenhouse]]
*[[HabLab]]

|Components=
*Hopper
*Grate
*Grate shaker
*Frame
*Compression chamber
*Hydraulic Cylinders
*Soil Drawer
*[[QA Plate]]
*Pressure gauge
*[[Controller Box]]
}}

==Status==
[[Image:creationreplication.jpg|thumb|James Slades' first independent replication of the CEB Press in process as of Sep. 2, 2011. Welding the soil loading drawer.]]
*Currently the CEB is at product release status and is being actively manufactured at Factor e Farm and in Texas. The presses will be used heavily as a part of the [[Factor e Farm Infrastructure Buildout 2011]].
*The CEB documentation is being actively upgraded to meet [[Fabrication_Procedure_Standards]] with the goal of serving as a reference implementation for [[GVCS]] documentation.
*Eventually the [[CNC Torch Table|torch table]] will be used to automate the fabrication of the CEB machine, reducing fabrication time by an estimated 20 hours and, thus, the cost to build the machine.
*The first independent replication is in process as of Sep. 2, 2011, by [[James Slade]] and Jason Smith in Texas.

==See Also==
*[[CEB Design]]
*[[Compressed Earth Blocks]]
*[[Cinva Ram]]

{{GVCS Footer}}

CEB Press

2011-10-17T13:22:29Z

Conor: /* Product Ecology */

{{GVCS Header}}

[[File:Machine.jpg|right|400px|thumb|CEB Press (aka "The Liberator")]]
==Overview==
[[File:Liberator_bricks.JPG|right|400px|thumb|Bricks pressed on [[The Liberator]]]]
The '''"Liberator" Compressed Earth Block Press''' is a machine that makes compressed earth blocks ('''CEB'''s).

[[CEB Press/Videos]]

{{Video}}

==Details==
The [[CEB Press]] takes earth/dirt/soil and compresses it tightly to make solid blocks useful for building. Compressed earth blocks have many advantages as a building material: by making the building materials from the readily available dirt on the building site, they eliminate the need to transport bricks from elsewhere, reducing the financial cost and environmental impact of transport. Compressed earth blocks are very strong and insulate well against both heat and sound, making for very energy-efficient building (especially combined with the energy savings from not needing to transport them from offsite). Best of all, the material they use is already on-site and does not need to be purchased -- quite literally, dirt-cheap! See the wiki page on [[Compressed Earth Blocks]] and the [[:Category:CEB|CEB category]] for more details on building using CEBs.

The Liberator has been fully designed and tested by the [[Open Source Ecology]] team. Because the Liberator is an open source technology, you can freely download instructions to build your own from materials you can obtain yourself, or contact ''opensourceecology[at]gmail[dot]com'' to buy a kit or a finished machine.

Building a machine yourself might seem intimidating, but every step of the process is fully documented and the OSE community is available on our [http://openfarmtech.org/forum/ discussion forums] if you need help, advice, or a little hand-holding.

Using the CEB Press, two people can build a 6 foot high (1.83m) round wall, 20 feet (6.1m) in diameter, 1 foot (30cm) thick, in one 8 hour day, though construction time will vary somewhat depending on preparation time, what equipment is available (tractor to prepare the ground and move the blocks where they need to go), the quality of the soil, and other factors. The bigger the block size, the faster a wall can be erected, but at the cost of heavier blocks that are more of a strain to work with. Blocks from ''The Liberator'' average 25 pounds (11.3kg).

see [[CEB Design]] for more information.

==Product Ecology==
<center>[[Image:4b-Constructioneco.png|thumb|600px|Construction [[Product Ecology]]]]</center>
{{Product Ecology
|Product={{CEB}}
|From=
*{{Furnace}}
*{{Welder}}
*{{Torch Table}}
*{{Ironworker}}

|Uses=
*{{PowerCube}}
*{{Tractor}}
*[[Earth]]

|Creates=
*[[CEB Bricks]]

|Enables=
*[[Workshop]]
*[[Greenhouse]]
*[[HabLab]]

|Components=
*Hopper
*Grate
*Grate shaker
*Frame
*Compression chamber
*Hydraulic Cylinders
*Soil Drawer
*[[QA Plate]]
*Pressure gauge
*[[Controller Box]]
}}

==Status==
[[Image:creationreplication.jpg|thumb|James Slades' first independent replication of the CEB Press in process as of Sep. 2, 2011. Welding the soil loading drawer.]]
*Currently the CEB is at product release status and is being actively manufactured at Factor e Farm and in Texas. The presses will be used heavily as a part of the [[Factor e Farm Infrastructure Buildout 2011]].
*The CEB documentation is being actively upgraded to meet [[Fabrication_Procedure_Standards]] with the goal of serving as a reference implementation for [[GVCS]] documentation.
*Eventually the [[CNC Torch Table|torch table]] will be used to automate the fabrication of the CEB machine, reducing fabrication time by an estimated 20 hours and, thus, the cost to build the machine.
*The first independent replication is in process as of Sep. 2, 2011, by [[James Slade]] and Jason Smith in Texas.

==See Also==
*[[CEB Design]]
*[[Compressed Earth Blocks]]
*[[Cinva Ram]]

{{GVCS Footer}}

User talk:YK

2011-08-17T23:50:49Z

Conor:

hi yk. i notice that you've been blanking some pages recently. please leave notes on the pages with your intentions for them so that others will know what you've been trying to do. the following templates could be useful:

*[[Template:Delete]]
*[[Template:Under construction]]
*[[Template:Tip]]
*[[Template:Warn]]

----

Thanks for your work on the industrial robot. Please read through the [[Product Template]] so you can see how to organize the information on it; we're trying to organize the information on the tools in a standard way to make it easy for people to navigate. Check out [[CEB Press]] for an example of the product template in action. Cheers --[[User:Conor|Conor]] 05:47, 14 May 2011 (PDT)

----

You should check this out - http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/tbaumg/trobot-40-a-miniature-articulated-robot

It's an open-source six-axis industrial robot that is now going into version 4.0 --[[User:Conor|Conor]] 01:50, 18 August 2011 (CEST)

Open Source Butcher Shop

2011-08-17T23:10:55Z

Conor:

{{Category=Food Storage and Processing}}
==Farmstead Meatsmith==
[http://www.farmsteadmeatsmith.com/ Farmstead Meatsmith] are making a free series of instructional videos about how to butcher animals. Their [http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/farmrun/butchery-instructional-web-series-from-farmstead-m?ref=card Kickstarter campaign] was successful in August 2011.

==Sugar Mountain Farm==
Another open source farm? Sugar Mountain Farm.

http://flashweb.com/butchershop

[[Image:osbutchershop2.jpg|center|777px]]

'''Note from Walter of Sugar Mountain Farm:'''

Yes, this is available for anyone to do. Floor plans for the butcher shop can be found in the blog article which has both a small and large resolution version. Click on the pictures.

Articles in the blog topic:

http://flashweb.com/blog/tag/butcher-shop

continue to follow this project.

Not that at some point I'll be switching back to using my primary domain which will make the address change to:

http://SugarMtnFarm.com/butchershop

Feel free to built a page here and use photos and illustrations from the articles on my blog for this.

Cheers,

-Walter

===Email from Walter Jeffries of Sugar Mountain Farm===
Hi Marcin,

I have many (100?) pages of articles on my blog about our construction of our on-farm butcher shop, slaughterhouse and smokehouse. Go to:

http://SugarMtnFarm.com/butchershop
http://flashweb.com/blog/tag/butcher-shop

and work back through the articles. There are many. We are still in construction.

The $150K cost of construction is my estimate of materials, some hired work (refrigeration), basic processing equipment, the permitting process, etc. So far we have spent around $33K and are on target with our budget. Because we do almost all of the work ourselves in the construction and we already own the land we are able to keep the costs down.

You may also be interested in our Tiny Cottage. Our home is 252 sq-ft which we built for about $7K closing in two months by two adults, two teens and a four year old. We've been living in the cottage now for over three years. It stays warm in our cold winters (-11°F last night outdoors, 68°F indoors) with minimal use of heat source (0.75 cord of firewood per year). Because of its masonry construction it is super strong, won't get damaged in quakes, is tornado resistant and easy to maintain. See:

http://SugarMtnFarm.com/home/cottage
http://flashweb.com/blog/tag/tiny-cottage

The roof is a ferro-cement barrel vault which we will someday berm with earth. This is a simple, easy, affordable home that can build themselves. Feel free to add it to your open source project if you would like. Those pages will give you tons of info.

I don't do consulting. I don't have the time between our farming, homeschooling, building our butcher shop, dog training, forestry and other projects. Everything there on my blog is open and free for other people to use as ideas for building their own meat processing facilities. I'm against patents so its all open source. You're welcome to use these ideas and I appreciate a link back and credit. If there are photos or drawings you would like to use then please let me know. Most are available in higher resolutions.

Cheers,

Walter Jeffries
Sugar Mountain Farm, LLC
Orange, Vermont
http://SugarMtnFarm.com

Also:

you'll find Cole Ward a wealth of information. He is a master butcher of 45 years experience and a wonderful teacher. We spent 18 months apprenticing with him to learn commercial meat cutting. See his web site at:

http://www.thegourmetbutcher.com/

and

http://colescuts.com/

He is just releasing a set of DVDs about butchering. They will be great.
=Development Discussion=
January 2011 by Marcin

We should mine the Sugar Mountain Farm blog for technical details of implementation - in particuluar, process and equipment used. This should be published as a technical overview/design paper, and should be reported on the Factor e Farm weblog. Walter is doing cutting edge work exaclty along the lines of relocalization that [[OSE values]]. I requested a high-res version of the floor plan for the facility. The cost of the facility is $150k with many cost-saving techniques from Walter, and I suspect we can go much lower with lumber/brick/rebar/sheet metal/construction equipment/waste treatment/renewable energy and other techniques that come out of the [[GVCS]].

Open Source Butcher Shop

2011-08-17T23:07:39Z

Conor:

{{Category=Food Storage and Processing}}
==Farmstead Meatsmith==
[http://www.farmsteadmeatsmith.com/ Farmstead Meatsmith] are making a free series of instructional videos about how to butcher animals. Their [http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/farmrun/butchery-instructional-web-series-from-farmstead-m?ref=card Kickstarter campaign] was successful in August 2011.

==Sugar Mountain Farm==
Another open source farm? Sugar Mountain Farm.

http://flashweb.com/butchershop

[[Image:osbutchershop.jpg|thumb]]

'''Note from Walter of Sugar Mountain Farm:'''

Yes, this is available for anyone to do. Floor plans for the butcher shop can be found in the blog article which has both a small and large resolution version. Click on the pictures.

Articles in the blog topic:

http://flashweb.com/blog/tag/butcher-shop

continue to follow this project.

Not that at some point I'll be switching back to using my primary domain which will make the address change to:

http://SugarMtnFarm.com/butchershop

Feel free to built a page here and use photos and illustrations from the articles on my blog for this.

Cheers,

-Walter

===Email from Walter Jeffries of Sugar Mountain Farm===
Hi Marcin,

I have many (100?) pages of articles on my blog about our construction of our on-farm butcher shop, slaughterhouse and smokehouse. Go to:

http://SugarMtnFarm.com/butchershop
http://flashweb.com/blog/tag/butcher-shop

and work back through the articles. There are many. We are still in construction.

The $150K cost of construction is my estimate of materials, some hired work (refrigeration), basic processing equipment, the permitting process, etc. So far we have spent around $33K and are on target with our budget. Because we do almost all of the work ourselves in the construction and we already own the land we are able to keep the costs down.

You may also be interested in our Tiny Cottage. Our home is 252 sq-ft which we built for about $7K closing in two months by two adults, two teens and a four year old. We've been living in the cottage now for over three years. It stays warm in our cold winters (-11°F last night outdoors, 68°F indoors) with minimal use of heat source (0.75 cord of firewood per year). Because of its masonry construction it is super strong, won't get damaged in quakes, is tornado resistant and easy to maintain. See:

http://SugarMtnFarm.com/home/cottage
http://flashweb.com/blog/tag/tiny-cottage

The roof is a ferro-cement barrel vault which we will someday berm with earth. This is a simple, easy, affordable home that can build themselves. Feel free to add it to your open source project if you would like. Those pages will give you tons of info.

I don't do consulting. I don't have the time between our farming, homeschooling, building our butcher shop, dog training, forestry and other projects. Everything there on my blog is open and free for other people to use as ideas for building their own meat processing facilities. I'm against patents so its all open source. You're welcome to use these ideas and I appreciate a link back and credit. If there are photos or drawings you would like to use then please let me know. Most are available in higher resolutions.

Cheers,

Walter Jeffries
Sugar Mountain Farm, LLC
Orange, Vermont
http://SugarMtnFarm.com

Also:

you'll find Cole Ward a wealth of information. He is a master butcher of 45 years experience and a wonderful teacher. We spent 18 months apprenticing with him to learn commercial meat cutting. See his web site at:

http://www.thegourmetbutcher.com/

and

http://colescuts.com/

He is just releasing a set of DVDs about butchering. They will be great.
=Development Discussion=
January 2011 by Marcin

We should mine the Sugar Mountain Farm blog for technical details of implementation - in particuluar, process and equipment used. This should be published as a technical overview/design paper, and should be reported on the Factor e Farm weblog. Walter is doing cutting edge work exaclty along the lines of relocalization that [[OSE values]]. I requested a high-res version of the floor plan for the facility. The cost of the facility is $150k with many cost-saving techniques from Walter, and I suspect we can go much lower with lumber/brick/rebar/sheet metal/construction equipment/waste treatment/renewable energy and other techniques that come out of the [[GVCS]].

Open Source Butcher Shop

2011-08-17T23:05:22Z

Conor:

{{Category=Food Storage and Processing}}
==Farmstead Meatsmith==
[http://www.farmsteadmeatsmith.com/ Farmstead Meatsmith] are making a free series of instructional videos about how to butcher animals. Their [http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/farmrun/butchery-instructional-web-series-from-farmstead-m?ref=card Kickstarter campaign] was successful in August 2011.

==Sugar Mountain Farm==
Another open source farm? Sugar Mountain Farm.

http://flashweb.com/butchershop

[[Image:osbutchershop.jpg|thumb]]

'''Note from Walter of Sugar Mountain Farm:'''

Yes, this is available for anyone to do. Floor plans for the butcher shop can be found in the blog article which has both a small and large resolution version. Click on the pictures.

Articles in the blog topic:

http://flashweb.com/blog/tag/butcher-shop

continue to follow this project.

Not that at some point I'll be switching back to using my primary domain which will make the address change to:

http://SugarMtnFarm.com/butchershop

Feel free to built a page here and use photos and illustrations from the articles on my blog for this.

Cheers,

-Walter

=Email=
Hi Marcin,

I have many (100?) pages of articles on my blog about our construction of our on-farm butcher shop, slaughterhouse and smokehouse. Go to:

http://SugarMtnFarm.com/butchershop
http://flashweb.com/blog/tag/butcher-shop

and work back through the articles. There are many. We are still in construction.

The $150K cost of construction is my estimate of materials, some hired work (refrigeration), basic processing equipment, the permitting process, etc. So far we have spent around $33K and are on target with our budget. Because we do almost all of the work ourselves in the construction and we already own the land we are able to keep the costs down.

You may also be interested in our Tiny Cottage. Our home is 252 sq-ft which we built for about $7K closing in two months by two adults, two teens and a four year old. We've been living in the cottage now for over three years. It stays warm in our cold winters (-11°F last night outdoors, 68°F indoors) with minimal use of heat source (0.75 cord of firewood per year). Because of its masonry construction it is super strong, won't get damaged in quakes, is tornado resistant and easy to maintain. See:

http://SugarMtnFarm.com/home/cottage
http://flashweb.com/blog/tag/tiny-cottage

The roof is a ferro-cement barrel vault which we will someday berm with earth. This is a simple, easy, affordable home that can build themselves. Feel free to add it to your open source project if you would like. Those pages will give you tons of info.

I don't do consulting. I don't have the time between our farming, homeschooling, building our butcher shop, dog training, forestry and other projects. Everything there on my blog is open and free for other people to use as ideas for building their own meat processing facilities. I'm against patents so its all open source. You're welcome to use these ideas and I appreciate a link back and credit. If there are photos or drawings you would like to use then please let me know. Most are available in higher resolutions.

Cheers,

Walter Jeffries
Sugar Mountain Farm, LLC
Orange, Vermont
http://SugarMtnFarm.com

Also:

you'll find Cole Ward a wealth of information. He is a master butcher of 45 years experience and a wonderful teacher. We spent 18 months apprenticing with him to learn commercial meat cutting. See his web site at:

http://www.thegourmetbutcher.com/

and

http://colescuts.com/

He is just releasing a set of DVDs about butchering. They will be great.
=Development Discussion=
January 2011 by Marcin

We should mine the Sugar Mountain Farm blog for technical details of implementation - in particuluar, process and equipment used. This should be published as a technical overview/design paper, and should be reported on the Factor e Farm weblog. Walter is doing cutting edge work exaclty along the lines of relocalization that [[OSE values]]. I requested a high-res version of the floor plan for the facility. The cost of the facility is $150k with many cost-saving techniques from Walter, and I suspect we can go much lower with lumber/brick/rebar/sheet metal/construction equipment/waste treatment/renewable energy and other techniques that come out of the [[GVCS]].

Microbial Fuel Cells

2011-07-16T13:04:51Z

Conor: /* Instructions on building your own */

Microbial fuel cells are a new way to generate electricity. They use the activity of bacteria to create a potential difference between two chambers. All bacteria metabolize chemicals in their environment and there are often leftover electrons from these processes. A few kinds of bacteria can be persuaded to deposit these onto an electrode placed in their environment.

A microbial fuel cell has a cathode and an anode. Bacteria live in the anode, where they eat glucose, sewage, or other waste. They form a film on the electrode, and when they break down the waste, they produce a current in the wire running out from the electrode.

A wire that runs between the two chambers will have an electric current running along it. You can generate about 1kW from a cubic meter of dirt in this way. (The record is 2.3kW per cubic meter - think you can beat that?)

Microbial fuel cells can be run on dirt, [[Toilets|wastewater]] or other organic matter. There is a variant called a ''microbial electrolysis cell'' that splits water to create hydrogen, rather than generating electrical current. Another variant is the ''microbial desalination cell''. This takes saltwater, splits the salt into sodium and chlorine ions, and uses the potential difference between these ions to generate electric current. Create clean energy while [[Desalination|desalinating]] water - how excellent is that? [http://www.gizmag.com/three-chambered-microbial-desalination-cells/12527/]

MIT Technology Review article on MFC [http://www.technologyreview.com/business/21332/page1/]

In theory, you could build one into your [[Compost|compost]] heap and make that generate electricity, though there don't seem to be reports of people doing this. Someone '''must''' try this.

==How to make one==
To make a microbial fuel cell, you put graphite cloth - the anode - in the bottom of a bucket along with chicken wire - the cathode - and microbe-laden waste, either mud, cow manure, or residue from coffee crops. A layer of sand acts as an ion barrier while salt water helps the protons travel more easily. you also can add a power management board to regulate the power and send it to a battery. Such a fuel cell can run a cheap, efficient light-emitting diode (LED) for four to five hours per evening. A system like this will cost around $10.

===Instructions on building your own===
* http://www.microbialfuelcell.org/www/index.php/Tutorials/
* Instructables [http://www.instructables.com/id/Make-a-Microbial-Fuel-Cell-MFC-Part-I/ Part 1], [http://www.instructables.com/id/Make-a-Microbial-Fuel-Cell-MFC-Part-II/ Part 2] and [http://www.instructables.com/id/Make-a-Microbial-Fuel-Cell-MFC-Part-III/ Part 3].
* [http://www.youtube.com/user/MicrobialFuelCell Six part YouTube tutorial]
* You definitely need to watch this [http://techtv.mit.edu/collections/mitei/videos/6081-bruce-logan-bioenergy-production-using-microbial-fuel-cell-technologies lecture by Bruce Logan]. It gives a bunch of tips on how to maximise power production from your microbial fuel cell and also explains how to make microbial electrolysis cells and microbial desalination cells. It condenses several years of research into an hour.

From the OSE perspective, it would be good to condense all of these into a bill of materials, clear instructional video etc.

[[Category:Energy]]

Global Village Construction Set

2011-07-11T05:56:12Z

Conor:

{{mergefrom|Template:GVCS List}}

<div style="text-align: right; direction: ltr; margin-left: 1em;"><flattr
uid="marcin_ose"
title="Global Village Construction Set"
description="The GVCS is a set of 50 tools / technologies for building post-scarcity, resilient communities."
category="text"
language="en_GB"
button="compact"
/></div>

= Introduction =

'''See http://opensourceecology.org for the official definition of the [http://opensourceecology.org/gvcs.php 50 GVCS Tools].'''

'''The [[Global Village Construction Set]]''' is a set of 50 [[wikipedia:Open Source Appropriate Technology|Open Source Appropriate Technology]] tools for building post-scarcity, resilient communities.

In this page, you will get an overview of each one of them, together with corresponding wiki pages, blog posts and forums.

See also the [[Crash Course]].

== Ideas ==

The ideas that guide the GVCS are:

'''Open Source''' - we freely publish our 3d designs, schematics, instructional videos, budgets, and product manuals on our open source wiki and we harness open collaboration with technical contributors.

'''Low-Cost''' - The cost of making or buying our machines are, on average, 8x cheaper than buying from an Industrial Manufacturer, including an average labor cost of $15 hour for a GVCS fabricator.

'''Modular''' - Motors, parts, assemblies, and power units can interchange, where units can be grouped together to diversify the functionality that is achievable from a small set of units.

'''User-Serviceable''' - Design-for-disassembly allows the user to take apart, maintain, and fix tools readily without the need to rely on expensive repairmen.

'''DIY''' - (do-it-yourself) The user gains control of designing, producing, and modifying the GVCS tool set.

'''Closed Loop Manufacturing''' - Metal is an essential component of advanced civilization, and our platform allows for recycling metal into virgin feedstock for producing further GVCS technologies - thereby allowing for cradle-to-cradle manufacturing cycles

'''High Performance''' - Performance standards must match or exceed those of industrial counterparts for the GVCS to be viable.

'''Flexible Fabrication''' - It has been demonstrated that the flexible use of generalized machinery in appropriate-scale production is a viable alternative to centralized production.

'''Distributive Economics''' - We encourage the replication of enterprises that derive from the GVCS platform as a route to truly free enterprise - along the ideals of Jeffersonian democracy.

'''Industrial Efficiency''' - In order to provide a viable choice for a resilient lifestyle, the GVCS platform matches or exceeds productivity standards of industrial counterparts.

= The tools =
{| style="width:100%;" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" border="1" align="left"
! TOOL
! DESCRIPTION
! IMAGE
! STATUS
! PROJECT MANAGER
! FORUM DISCUSSION
! BLOG
! OTHER WIKI ARTICLES

|-
! '''[[CEB Press]]'''
! A high-performance Compresssed Earth Block press. Compresssed Earth Block building is the highest quality natural building method. The page [[CEB intro]] contains introductory information on compressed earth blocks
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/compressed-earth-brick-press.png
! <font color=green>COMPLETE AND TESTED!</font>
! [[Marcin Jakubowski]]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/ceb-press/ ceb-press]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/category/global-village-construction-set/compressed-earth-block-press/ compressed-earth-block-press]
! [[:Category: CEB]]

|-align="left"
! '''[[LifeTrac|Tractor]]'''
! A versatile, 4-wheel drive, hydraulically-driven, skid-steering tractor with 18 to 200 horsepower capacity for agriculture, construction and other utility duties.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/lifetrac.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>
! [[Marcin Jakubowski]]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/lifetrac/ lifetrac]
!
! [[:Category: LifeTrac]]

|-align="left"
! '''[[Microtractor]]'''
! a small, 18 hp version of the full-sized tractor for powering a wide range of implements in agricultural and utility duties
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/microtrac.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>
!
!
!
! [[:Category: MicroTrac]]

|-align="left"
! '''[[Bulldozer]]'''
! A high-traction, heavy earth-moving machine indispensible for building ponds, berms, and other permacultural earthforms, as well as for other tasks such as building roads or clearing land
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/bulldozer.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Power Cube]]'''
! A multipurpose, self-contained, hydraulic power power unit that consisting of an engine coupled to a hydraulic pump
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/powercube.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>
! [[Marcin Jakubowski]]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/power-cube/ power-cube]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/category/global-village-construction-set/power-cube/ power-cube]
! [[:Category: Power Cube]]

|-align="left"
! '''CNC Precision Multimachine'''
! A multipurpose, precision CNC machining and metal cutting device for milling, lathing, drilling to make precision parts; includes surface grinding and cold-cut metal sawing
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/multimachine.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Ironworker Machine'''
! A device that can instantly cut steel and punch holes in metal one inch thick
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/ironworker.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''CNC Torch/Router Table'''
! A computer-controlled cutting table for metal where a moving torch head is used to produce precision metal parts in a fraction of the time that it takes to do so manually
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/torch-table.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>
!
!
!
! [[:Category: Torch Table]]

|-align="left"
! '''3D Printer'''
! An additive manufacturing technology where a three dimensional object is printed by laying down successive layers of material, just like a printer except in 3D
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/3d-printer.png
! <font color=green>COMPLETE AND TESTED!</font>
! The [http://reprap.org RepRap] community, led by Adrian Bowyer
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''3D Scanner'''
! A device that can generate a 3D digital scan from a real-life object, where the file can be used to reproduce the object in 3D with a device such as the 3D printer or CNC Precision Multimachine
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/3d-scanner.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[CNC Circuit Mill]]'''
! A computer-controlled device that can produce electrical circuits by milling and drilling on copper-clad circuit boards
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/circuit-mill.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Industrial Robot]]'''
! A robotic arm which can perform certain human tasks - such as welding or milling – for performing tasks that are not better done by humans
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/robotic-arm.png
! <font color=orange>IN DEVELOPMENT</font>
! [[Yoonseo Kang]]
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Laser Cutter]]'''
! An industrial machine that can make precision, finish cuts in a wide array of substrates, such as metal, wood, or plastic
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/laser-cutter.png
! <font color=orange>IN DEVELOPMENT</font>
! The [http://labs.nortd.com/lasersaur/ Lasersaur] team
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Open Source Welder]]'''
! A device used to make strong, permanent bonds in metal by melting and fusing the metal
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/mig-welder.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Plasma Cutter]]'''
! A device to cut metal using a plasma torch
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/plasma-cutter.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Induction Furnace]]'''
! An electrical furnace in which the heat is applied by induction heating of metal, providing clean, versatile, compact, energy-efficient, and well-controlled melting compared to flame furnaces
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/induction-furnace.png
! <font color=orange>IN DEVELOPMENT</font>
!
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/induction-furnace/ induction-furnace]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/category/global-village-construction-set/induction-furnace/ induction-furnace]
! [[:Category: Induction Furnace]]

|-align="left"
! '''Metal Rolling'''
! A metal forming process in which metal stock is passed through a pair of rolls to produce a desired shape, such as flat bar, angle, or u-channel
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/metal-rolling-machine.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Rod and Wire Mill'''
! A subset of metal rolling, used to make shafts, rebar, thin rods, and down to wire.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/wire-n-rod-mill.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Press Forge'''
! A device for shaping metal by the application of a shaping die and a continuous pressure or force.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/forge.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Modern Steam Engine]]'''
! A modern engine where an external heat source is used to turn water into steam, and the steam in turn moves reciprocating pistons to provide shaft power
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/steam-engine.png
! <font color=orange>IN DEVELOPMENT</font>
! [[Mark J Norton]]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/steam-engine-construction-set/ steam-engine-construction-set]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/category/global-village-construction-set/steam-engine-construction-set/ steam-engine-construction-set]
! [[:Category: Steam Engine]]

|-align="left"
! '''Gasifier burner'''
! A clean and efficient burner that gasifies the material that is being burned prior to combustion
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/gasifier-burner.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Steam Generator]]'''
! A device that generates steam from water that is passed through externally-heated coils
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/steam-generator.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Solar Concentrator'''
! An array of mirrors to concentrate sunlight so it can boil water and drive a steam engine.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/solar-concentrator.png
! STATUS
! The [http://www.solarfire.org/ Solar Fire] team
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Wind Turbine]]'''
! A device that produces electrical power from wind energy
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/wind-turbine.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Aluminum Extractor from Clay'''
! A device that produces aluminum from clay by dissolving the aluminum from aluminosilicate (clay), and then electrolyzing the resulting compound to form pure aluminum
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/alluminum-extractor.png
! STATUS
! [[Edward McCullough]]
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Pelletizer]]'''
! A device that compresses shredded pieces of biomass or other substances to compact, flowable pellets
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/pelletizer.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Universal Seeder'''
! A tractor-pulled seeder than can plant any seed, from small seeds like clover to large seeds such as potatoes
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-seeder.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Rototiller]] and [[Soil Pulverizer]]'''
! A tractor implement that tills soil with blades via rotary action
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/pulverizer-tiller.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Spader]]'''
! A set of mechanical shovels that prepare soil for planting without causing a hardpan typical of rototiller tilling
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/spader.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Microcombine'''
! A small-scale harvester-thresher for mechanical harvesting of any grain crops, with a cutting swath of about 3 feet in width
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/microcombine.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Universal Rotor]]'''
! A tractor-mounted rotor that can be fitted with a wide array of toolheads, such as string trimmer, posthole digger, tree planting auger, slurry mixer, and many others
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-rotor.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Baler]]'''
! A device that compresses hay and other light and dispersed materials into more compact bales
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/baler.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Hay Rake'''
! A mechanical implement for a tractor that rakes hay or other light materials into windrows or other formations for drying or baling
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hay-rake.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Hay Cutter]]'''
! A device that cuts grass, hay, straw, or other light biomass for haying, baling, or combining
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hay-cutter.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Backhoe]]'''
! A piece of excavating equipment or digger consisting of a digging bucket on the end of a two-part articulated arm for digging trenches or large holes
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/backhoe.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Chipper/Hammermill'''
! A machine used for reducing wood or other materials into smaller parts, such as chips or shreds
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/chipper-hammermill.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Trencher]]'''
! A piece of construction equipment that uses a cutting wheel for digging trenches, laying pipe, cable, or drainage
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/trencher.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Open Source Car]]'''
! A wheeled motor vehicle for transporting people
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/automobile.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Open Source Truck'''
! A larger version of an automobile with a bed for transporting loads
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/truck.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Sawmill|Dimensional Sawmill]]'''
! A dimensional sawmill is a circular blade sawmill with 2 blades that is used for producing dimensional lumber in one pass
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/sawmill.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Cement Mixer]]'''
! A device that homogeneously combines cement, aggregate such as sand or gravel, and water to form concrete
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/cement-mixer.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Well-drilling Rig]]'''
! A device for digging deep water wells
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/well-drilling-rig.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Bakery Oven'''
! A device for heating various forms of dough into breads and other baked goods
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/industrial-bread-oven.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Dairy Milker'''
! A device which harvests milk automatically from milk-producing livestock
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/milking-machine.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Electric Motor/Generator'''
! A device that functions as a motor when energized with a voltage, which can also function as an electrical generator when it is spun.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/electric-motor-generator.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Hydraulic Motors'''
! A mechanical actuator that converts high-pressure fluid flow into rotation
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hydraulic-motor.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Bioplastic Extruder]]'''
! An extruder takes a charge of plastic and extrudes a sheet or other profile of useful form, such as greenhouse glazing or water tubing
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/plastic-extruder.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Universal Power Supply'''
! This is a combination power supply for applications from off-grid power to supplying power to welders, induction furnaces, and plasma cutters.
!http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-power-supply.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Nickel Iron Batteries]]'''
! Long-life batteries that have a track record of lasting 50 or more years
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/nickel-iron-batteries.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! Drill press
!
! [[File:Multimachineicon.jpg|100px]]
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>
!
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/drill-press/ drill-press]
!
! [[:Category: Drill Press]]

|-
|}

===Want to add another tool?===
If you think another technology belongs on the GVCS list, follow this procedure -
#Read the [[OSE Specifications]] and answer the [[OSE Specifications#Questionnaire|questionnaire]].
#If the tool scores highly on the questionnaire and meets most of the OSE specifications, start a thread on the [http://openfarmtech.org/forum/ forum] with a title beginning "Proposed Tool:" (e.g. "Proposed Tool: Washing Machine"). You may be challenged, and will have to convince the community that it is realistic and worth pursuing.
#If the consensus on the forum is in favor of adding the tool to the GVCS, feel free to edit the list above to add the new tool
#By proposing the tool, you take responsibility for it. You become project manager for that tool, and will have to build and prototype it yourself, or else recruit and manage someone who can.

====Proposed tools====
*'''Loader''' - an attachment for the [[LifeTrac]] tractor
*'''Village-scale washing machine''' - powered by the universal rotor
*'''Fridge''' - see the page on [[refrigeration]]
*'''Reversible heat pump''' - for controlling the temperature of homes and greenhouses, refrigerating food and medicine, harnessing solar and geothermal heat
*'''[[Stirling engine]]''' - transforms heat into mechanical energy
*'''[[Spectrometer]]''' and '''computer oscilloscope''' - adding these to the GVCS would form a complete Fab Lab. Most of the work will be done by other open-source groups.
*'''[[Juice Press]]''' - A juice press powered by the [[Power Cube]].
*'''[[Log Splitter]]''' - A log splitter powered by the [[Power Cube]].

= Videos =

See a 2 minute video explainer about the GVCS:

<html>
<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/16106427" width="500" height="310" frameborder="0"></iframe>
</html>

* [[H+ Presentation]]
* Overview presentation at [[Linz Slides]]

See latest presentation on the GVCS (as of June, 2010)
<html>
<object width="400" height="225"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=13020225&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=13020225&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="225"></embed></object><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/13020225">Marcin Jakubowski - part 1</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/eastbaypictures">East Bay Pictures</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>
</html>

Economy creates culture and culture creates politics. The politics we seek are freedom, voluntary contract, and human evolution in harmony with life support systems. Note that resource conflicts and overpopulation are eliminated by design. We are after the creation of new society, one which has learned from the past and moves forward with ancient wisdom and modern technology.

This is a real experiment, and product selection is based on us living with the given technologies. First, it is the development of real, economically significant hardware, product, and engineering. Second, this entire set is being compiled into one setting, and land is being populated with the respective productive agents. The aim is to define a new form of social organization where it is possible to create advanced culture, thriving in abundance and largely autonomous, on the scale of a village, not nation or state.

Here is a talk by [[Marcin Jakubowski]] on the GVCS at the 4th Oekonux Conference. <html>You can download the slides and see a transcript <a href="http://openfarmtech.org/index.php?title=Oekonux_4" target="_blank">here</a>.

First is an introduction by Franz Nahrada, leader of the <a href="http://globalvillages.ning.com/" target="_blank">Globally Integrated Village Environment</a>:<br>

<center> <script src="http://blip.tv/scripts/pokkariPlayer.js?ver=2008010901" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://blip.tv/syndication/write_player?skin=js&posts_id=1960623&source=3&autoplay=true&file_type=flv&player_width=&player_height=" type="text/javascript"></script>
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<br>
</center>

Here is the main body of the presentation.<br>

<center>
<script src="http://blip.tv/scripts/pokkariPlayer.js?ver=2008010901" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://blip.tv/syndication/write_player?skin=js&posts_id=1960410&source=3&autoplay=true&file_type=flv&player_width=&player_height=" type="text/javascript"></script>
<p id="blip_movie_content_1960410">
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960410(); return false;" rel="enclosure">
<img src="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv.jpg" alt="Video thumbnail. Click to play" title="Click to play" border="0" /></a>
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960410(); return false;" rel="enclosure">Click To Play</a>

</center>
</html>

Click the arrows on the sides to see other videos.</center></html>

A video presentation on the [[first year at Factor e Farm]] and the GVCS from 2007-2008 [http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-710075551990473235#20m24s here].

And you can also view a GVCS [[UM_Presentation|slide show presentation]] for more information.

=Product Selection Criteria=

See [[OSE Specifications]]

= Enterprise Community Contract =

We are proposing the formation of Global Villages in the form of productive enterprise communities that strive for unprecedented quality of life:
* material abundance
* freedom from bureacracy and unnecessary activity
* total focus on one's true interests

For our particular OSE prototype implementation, we are interested in the following general essence of an ''Enterprise Community Contract'':

* 2 hours of productive activity daily, such that 100% of the community's food, energy, housing, transportation, and technology essentials are produced for subsistence, with surplus production for market
** Agriculture base follows permaculture design, and includes production of water soluble organic fertilizer, orchard, nursery, and crops, as well as certain food processing and value added propositions
** Flexible fabrication produces advanced technologies ''at the cost of materials''
** Cost of living is reduced dramatically, from $20,000/year in the industrialized world, to negligible income requirements, under the assumption of high-tech self-providing
* Each participant undertakes a study program of full stewardship of the community, including:
** Agricultural production capacity
** Technological literacy to operate and maintain flex fab equipment and other machinery
** Numeracy to facilitate design
** Study of the mind and body to expand one's consciousness, skills, and abilities, and to disseminate such human augmentation widely towards eliminating mind control of the masses
* Entry of new people can be negotiated by the new participants providing skills and productive contribution to the community
* Beyond the 2 hour requirement, participants follow a research lifestyle to promote further development of the community or of the greater world

= Enabling Technology - Salient Features of Technology Base =

Without going into details, the main features for the comprehensive technology base are:

* ''Hybridization of power devices'' - decoupling of power source from the working unit in order to produce electrical drive is a formula for increasing integrated efficiency of electromechanical devices such as electric [[vehicle]]s, tools, heavy equipment, etc. For example, the hybrid car decouples the engine from its wheels by using an electrical generator to feed electric wheel motors. Note that this eliminates the clutch, transmission, crank case and its oil, differential, drive train, and other parts, and replaces these items with electric wire from the generator to electric motor. This is a huge efficiency leap, one in fuel efficiency, and two, in eliminating billions of dollars of industry which is outdated today due to the hybridization option. As such, we can talk of complex machines with huge simplification, assuming easy access to infinitely scaleable and controllable, low cost electric motors (these do not exist today). For example, we can envision an agricultural combine where each moving part is powered by its own electric motor - producing a leap in simplification and maintenance of the overall machine - as all belts, pulleys, gears, and other power transmission components driven by a single engine - are all replaced by electric wire. One can point to many examples where such strategy would provide leapfrog advance in device simplicity and maintenance.

* ''Solar turbine power generation including heat storage - look at [[Solar Turbine CHP System]]

* ''Open source fab lab'' - combine and expand the [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/multimachine/Multimachine] with xyz table as in RepRap (http://reprap.org/), and you can envision a robust fabrication device that integrates open source computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM). This device would perform a large variety of machining and fabrication operations, and would be producible at the cost of materials if metal casting is available. When deployed, we are talking of '''''producing any advanced object or device at the cost of materials'''''. ''Would you like to fabricate an electric motor for your personal transport vehicle? Here, I'll email you a file to make on your local village fabber''. In practice, one could conceptualize a single or several Multimachines, with their milling-drilling-lathing functions, surrounding an xyz motion platform with interchangeable heads. These heads could include acetylene torch attachment, plasma cutter, CO2 laser, router, hot wire, or additive heads such as a plastic extruder found in RepRap. This overall fab lab concept could start with a basic machine such as the Multimachine, with computer controls and table added in time. As such, this is a realistic proposition - with supporting open source knowhow with significant advancement already available. This propels civilization to new levels of decentralized material prosperity, and implies significant reduction of resource conflicts, especially if material feedstocks are sourced locally - as in the next point.

Here is an initial Fab Lab design:
[[Image:Fab_Lab.jpg]]

Here is a sample Product Matrix that falls right out of Fab Lab capacities:
[[Image:Product_Matrix.jpg]]

* ''Production of local feedstocks''-
** Wood and structural masonry compressed earth block (CEB) for construction - produced from on-site trees and soils
** [[Compressed Fuel Gas]] for cooking or melting metal - gas produced from trees
** [[Bioplastics]] - such as cellophane from trees
** Biofuels - [[Fuel Alcohol]] in temperate zones, palm oil in tropical zones
** Industrial detritus (waste materials) processing - includes [[Metal Casting and Extrusion]] or [[Plastic Extrusion & Molding]]
** [[Aluminum Extraction From Clays]]

= Sample Scenario =

Imagine a village with buildings of dirt (CEB) with year-round [[Greenhouses|greenhouses]] (sawmill, CEB, bioplastics from local trees), with all facility energy produced by a solar turbine, where people drive hybrid cars with car bodies (bioplastics) made from local weeds, with critical motors and metal structures (aluminum) extracted from on-site clay, which are fueled by alcohol produced on-site, on a wireless network linked to the greater world. That's just a sampling of the technology base. Food, energy, housing sufficiency. There are no poor among us - because we are all evolving human beings and farmer scientists.

= Development process =
[[GVCS Development Template]]

[[Product Cycle]]

[[Image:Engineering_Strategy.jpg]]

= Definition of Open Source Hardware and OSE Specifications =

See the updated entry for OSE Spec [http://openfarmtech.org/index.php?title=OSE_Specifications here].

We like to be clear about the meaning of ''open,'' or ''open source,''' as used in this work for items of physical production. By ''open source,'' we mean documented to the point where one may replicate a given item, ''without even consulting with the developers.'' To us, this embodies the most complete form of documentation possible, where sufficient detail is provided to enable independent replication. This is ''open source'' embodied in ''OSE Specifications''. Other features of OSE Specificationsare:

# Freely downloadable documentation
# DfD, lifetime design
# Simplicity and low cost are of prime importance
# Replaceable components
# Modular Design
# Scaleability
# Localization
## Level 1 - product fabrication or production is local
## Level 2 - material sourcing is local
# Product evolution - phases and versions are pursued
# Concrete Flexible Fabrication mechanism exists for others to purchase the product at reasonable cost
# Open franchising - replicable enterprise design is available, and training exists for entrepreneurs

Thus, these features are meant to promote ''[http://www.inclusivedemocracy.org/dn/vol4/fotopoulos_technology.htm#_ftn2 liberatory technology]'' - open, replicable, essential, optimal, and ecological goods and services for humankind living in harmony with natural life support systems.

= Working Assumptions =

Here is a partial list of assumptions that we are making as we go about the development work of this wiki. These assumptions help one to understand our motivations and approach.
# Civilization are shaped by their resource base. The resource base is what gives people power. By controlling others through an economic or social hierarchy, we can control resources, and thus gain power. Resource conflicts occur because people have not yet learned to manage resources without stealing. Society has not transcended the brute struggle for survival. We remain on the bottom steps of Maslow's pyramid. Transcending resource conflicts by creating abundance, first for hundreds, then for thousands of people, is now possible if knowledge flows openly and advanced technology is applied to produce goods.
# Said propaganda and conditioning has successfully removed the notion of self-sufficiency as a viable means of livelihood. Most people are afraid of self-sufficiency and consider it a return to the stone age. Most people cannot envision that advanced civilization can be created in small (100-1000 person), self-sufficient, highly skilled communities. Furthermore, most people do not realize that it is possible to educate, skill, and evolve human beings such that an integrated, self-sufficient lifestyle option that promotes advanced civilization on a small scale of human organization is created. It it possible to achieve this level of excellence if people are taught real knowledge and wisdom, as opposed to undergoing global workforce training.
# Education curricula have typically deleted practical applications deliberately, to produce subjects of the global workforce. If education is reinstated then self-sufficiency will emerge as a natural option.
# Self-sufficiency is not an antisocial behavior, but a means to full individual and community accountability for resource conflicts, foul politics, and other corruptions of large-scale endeavors. (review works of Gandhi, Schumacher, Fuller) Self-sufficiency is a means to highest quality life by definition, one is in control of one's destiny when one is self-sufficient. The assumption of self-sufficiency is that its practitioners must be highly skilled, and not products of centralist education.
# By self-sufficient, we mean in full control of providing one's needs. Note that self-sufficiency refers to needs - those things that allow one to survive in absolute health - and not wants. Self-sufficiency does not imply a solo, isolationist endeavor. Self-sufficiency may be accomplished with the help of as many people as it is possible to maintain full accountability, transparency, and sound ethics within that group. This group may be dispersed globally. Historically, sociology of human settlements has shown that this scale of self-sufficiency is a few hundred people. (see E.F. Schumacher; other references)
# The State promotes well-paid incompetence, largely through specialization, such that subjects produce sufficient surplus to pay for their own oppression.
# Education, media, and social engineering programs have subjugated human integrity to passive consumerism, with its related problems (resource conflicts, loss of freedom such as wage slavery). The only way out of this is creating a framework within which humans can prosper: provision of true education, learning of practical skills, stewardship of land, advanced technology for the people, and open access to economically significant know-how.
# Import substitution is reducing dependence on external feedstocks and replacing them with local ones. People in control of their resources control their own destiny. Thus, to localize the essential parts of an economy completely is the prime formula for social stability. Localization should not be considered a struggle, but merely a possibility. It is a possibility that is not recognized because most people, as specialists, lack integrated technical literacy and skills that make a local economy feasible.

= See also =

* [[Product Ecologies]] - illustrates how the different components of the GVCS relate with one another

[[Category: GVCS]]

Buy The Liberator

2011-07-10T23:45:28Z

Conor: Redirected page to CEB Press Intro

#REDIRECT [[CEB Press Intro]]

CEB Press Intro/no

2011-07-10T23:44:43Z

Conor:

{{Lang|CEB Presse Introduksjon}}
{{Category=CEB press}}

{{ToolTemplate|ToolName=CEB Press}}

'''"Liberator" Komprimerte Jordklosser Pressen''' er en maskin som lager komprimerte jordklosser ('''CEB'''er). Den tar jord og presser den veldig hardt for å lage faste klosser som kan brukes til bygging. Komprimerte jordklosser har mange fordeler som byggemateriale: ved å lage byggemateriale fra grunnen av på stedet, eliminerer de behovet for å transportere det fra andre steder. Dette reduserer kostnadene og miljømessig innvirkning fra transport. Komprimerte jordklosser er veldig sterke og isolerer godt mot både varme og lyd. Dette gjør bygninger veldig energieffektive. Best av alt, det koster ikke noe å bruke jord. Se wikisiden på {{LinkLang|Compressed Earth Blocks|Komprimerte jordklosser}} og {{LinkLang|:Category:CEB|CEB kategorien}} for flere detaljer om bygging med CEBer.

[[File:Machine.jpg|right|400px]]Liberator har blitt fullstendig designet og testet av Open Ecology laget. Du kan nå følge instruksjonene for å bygge din egen, eller kontakte oss hvis du vil kjøpe et sett eller en ferdig maskin.

Å bygge en maskin selv kan virke skummelt, men hvert eneste steg av prosessen er fullstendig dokumentert og OSE fellesskapet er tilgjengelig på våre [http://openfarmtech.org/forum/ diskusjonsforum] hvis du trenger hjelp, råd, eller en hånd å holde i.

Med Liberator kan to personer bygge en 1.83 meter høy, rund vegg 6.1 meter i diameter 30 cm tykk, på en 8-timers dag - konstruksjonstiden er vil variere avhengig av andre faktorer: forberedelsestid, hvilket utstyr som er tilgjengelig (traktor osv.) og kvaliteten av jorden. Dess større klossestørrelsen er, dess fortere blir en vegg reist. Og, selvfølgelig, dess større klossestørrelse, dess tyngre blir klossen. Klosser fra ''The Liberator'' vil være gjennomsnitlig 11.3kg.

{{LinkLang|Torch Table|kuttebordet}} vil bli brukt for å automatisere fabrikeringen av CEB maskinen, hvilket vil redusere fabrikeringstid med et anslag på 20 timer og redusere kostnaden av det endelige produktet.

==How does it work?==
Loose dirt is loaded into the hopper at the top. This falls through to a chamber where a pair of hydraulic arms compress it and then eject it. This video shows how the machine works:

<div align="center"><html>
<object width="300" height="270"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zoPq639C4CA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zoPq639C4CA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="300" height="260"></embed></object>
</html></div>

===List of components===
The purpose is to explain the design very simply so that when it is explained in detail later, it will be easier to understand'''

The Liberator consists of -<br> {{Wanted|Refine this list (perhaps based on [[The Liberator Master Bill of Materials]] ). This list should be the model for the [[CEB Press Build Instructions|build instructions]].}}
*A hopper at the top which you fill with loose dirt. This is made from welded steel. We made the hopper six feet wide, so it can hold a lot of dirt.
*Grate and grate shaker - the grate is at the bottom of the hopper. The grate shaker shakes it so that soil falls through into the compression chamber, while large stones and things like that are caught in the grate.
*A compression chamber where the bricks are actually pressed. This is a metal box with a nylon liner bolted on the inside. The liner gives the bricks a smoother finish. It will have to be replaced every hundred thousand bricks or so.
*A frame that bolts together for easy assembly and disassembly.
*Hydraulic cylinders - These are the muscles of the machine; they apply the pressure to the dirt. They are readily removable with pins. There are two hydraulic cylinders:
**The soil drawer - this moves from left to right and performs the dual function of loading soil into the compression chamber and ejecting blocks from the machine
**The main cylinder, which moves up and down and compresses the blocks
*Tractor mount - this is where an external hydraulic power source can be attached to the hydraulic cylinders.
*Pressure gauge

<gallery widths="390px" heights="350px" perrow="2">
File:Machine-front.jpg
File:Machine-back.jpg
</gallery>

===Product Ecology===
*[[Rototiller]] to prepare the soil.
*Power source such as [[LifeTrac]].
*Tractor to load the hopper (optional)

{{Wanted|Cost assessment of this. How much would an external hydraulic power source cost?}}

===The Liberator in action===
{{Wanted|Demo Photos.}}

{{Wanted|Video of building with it}}. Check youtube channel - [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_9rQ61wi_o][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aN5o-mdO1CY][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4cTyHedH58][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OU5ulNgiqo][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ju_tAn7Mw5c]

==Specifications==
{| cellpadding="6" cellspacing="2" border="1" align="center"
|-align="center"
! Bricks per minute output
! 16

|-align="center"
! Brick size
! 12x6x6 inches (30.5x15.3x10.2 cm)

|-align="center"
! People operating machine
! 1-2

|-align="center"
! Power source
! Tractor hydraulics or any hydraulic power source with 6 gallon per minute capacity (22.71 liters per minute)

|-align="center"
! Machine mounting
! tractor 3 point hitch or stand-alone foot

|-align="center"
! Hydraulic pressure
! 2000psi / 137.90 bar

|-align="center"
! Hydraulic cylinder
! 5 inch diameter, 19.6 inch area; 2.5 inch rod

|-align="center"
! Pressing cylinder pressure
! 39,250 lb pushing force (~18 tons)

|-align="center"
! Controls
! 2 spool, manual, hydraulic valve; automatic version forthcoming.

|-align="center"
! Compressive strength of bricks
! 795psi (54.81 bar) using plain earth. <br>1200psi (82.74 bar) with 10% Portland cement.<br>Strong enough to build a 60 storey building [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/2010/06/ceb-compressive-strength-test-results/]

|-align="center"
!
! Structural cold rolled steel construction throughout

|}

*Height: 6 foot 11 inches/ 210.82 cm
*Machine lifetime goals: 1 million bricks before repairs; liner may be replaced every 100,000 bricks
*Fabrication time requirement for optimized production: 3-5 days, about 20 hours of direct fabrication
*Manual fabrication tooling requirements: drill press, welder, acetylene torch
*Optimal fabrication tooling: XYZ table with torch, MIG welder, hoist
*Material costs: $1000-1350
*Cost for machine: you can build your own for $3-5k in parts, or [[CEB Press Intro|buy a readymade one here]] for $8k

==Advantages of The Liberator==
[[File:Liberator_V_commercial.JPG|center|700px]]
*'''Easy repair'''. The Liberator was designed to make maintenance as easy and infrequent as possible. The part that is most likely to need replacement is a rubber sheet from McMaster-Carr. The press is designed for disassembly, so if repairs are needed, the cost should be minimal. And unlike commercial machines, you have all the blueprints and sources for parts here, so there should be no difficulty repairing it.
*Requires as little as 1 person to operate. The only control required is turning the machine on, and from that point one simply loads soil and unloads bricks. There is an alternative manual version for $500 less '''(Is that correct?)'''
*'''Modular power source'''. The Liberator does not have its own power source; it is designed to be attached to an external power source. This is in line with the [[Key Features of the GVCS|OSE principle]] of modularity; different tools can be run from the same power source, allowing the same tool to fulfill many functions flexibly. The power source could be the hydraulics from [[LifeTrac]] (our tractor any flexible source of machanical power), [[Power Cube]], or any hydraulic power source with a capacity of 6 gallon per minute (22.71 liters per minute).
*'''Large hopper'''. Compared to other CEB presses on the market, The Liberator has a very large hopper. We found with earlier editions that a small hopper requires constant loading and this slows down the construction process.

CEB Press Intro

2011-07-10T23:44:06Z

Conor:

{{OrigLang}}
{{Category=CEB press}}

{{ToolTemplate|ToolName=CEB Press}}

The '''"Liberator" Compressed Earth Block Press''' is a machine that makes compressed earth blocks ('''CEB'''s). It takes earth/dirt/soil and squeezes it really hard to make solid blocks which can be used for building. Compressed earth blocks have many advantages as a building material: by making the building materials from the ground on the site, they eliminate the need to cart them in from elsewhere. This cuts down the costs and environmental impact of transport. Compressed earth blocks are very strong and insulate well against both heat and sound. This makes for a very energy-efficient building. Best of all, there is no charge for using dirt; it is literally a dirt-cheap way of building! See the wiki page on [[Compressed Earth Blocks]] and the [[:Category:CEB|CEB category]] for more details on building with CEBs.

[[File:Machine.jpg|right|400px]]The Liberator has been fully designed and tested by the Open Ecology team. You can now follow the instructions to build your own, or contact ''opensourceecology[at]gmail[dot]com'' if you want to buy a kit or a finished machine.

Building a machine yourself might seem scary, but every step of the process is fully documented and the OSE community is available on our [http://openfarmtech.org/forum/ discussion forums] if you need help, advice, or a little hand-holding.

With the Liberator, two people can build a 6 foot high (1.83m) round wall, 20 feet (6.1m) in diameter, 1 foot (30cm) thick, in one 8 hour day - though construction time will vary somewhat depending on other factors: preparation time, what equipment is available (tractor etc.) and the quality of the soil. The bigger the block size, the faster a wall is errected. And obviously, the bigger the block size, the heavier the block. Blocks from ''The Liberator'' will average 25 pounds (11.3kg).

The [[Torch Table|torch table]] will be used to automate the fabrication of the CEB machine, reducing fabrication time by an estimated 20 hours and thus reducing the cost of the final product.

==How does it work?==
Loose dirt is loaded into the hopper at the top. This falls through to a chamber where a pair of hydraulic arms compress it and then eject it. This video shows how the machine works:

<div align="center"><html>
<object width="300" height="270"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zoPq639C4CA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zoPq639C4CA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="300" height="260"></embed></object>
</html>

<html>
<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/22102016?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="400" height="233" frameborder="0"></iframe><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/22102016">Complete CEB Walkthrough</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user2016419">Open Source Ecology</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>
</html>
</div>

===List of components===
The purpose is to explain the design very simply so that when it is explained in detail later, it will be easier to understand'''

The Liberator consists of -<br> {{Wanted|Refine this list (perhaps based on [[The Liberator Master Bill of Materials]] ). This list should be the model for the [[CEB Press Build Instructions|build instructions]].}}
*A hopper at the top which you fill with loose dirt. This is made from welded steel. We made the hopper six feet wide, so it can hold a lot of dirt.
*Grate and grate shaker - the grate is at the bottom of the hopper. The grate shaker shakes it so that soil falls through into the compression chamber, while large stones and things like that are caught in the grate.
*A compression chamber where the bricks are actually pressed. This is a metal box with a nylon liner bolted on the inside. The liner gives the bricks a smoother finish. It will have to be replaced every hundred thousand bricks or so.
*A frame that bolts together for easy assembly and disassembly.
*Hydraulic cylinders - These are the muscles of the machine; they apply the pressure to the dirt. They are readily removable with pins. There are two hydraulic cylinders:
**The soil drawer - this moves from left to right and performs the dual function of loading soil into the compression chamber and ejecting blocks from the machine
**The main cylinder, which moves up and down and compresses the blocks
*Tractor mount - this is where an external hydraulic power source can be attached to the hydraulic cylinders.
*Pressure gauge
*Arduino board controls the timing and sequence of operations.

<gallery widths="390px" heights="350px" perrow="2">
File:Machine-front.jpg
File:Machine-back.jpg
</gallery>

===Product Ecology===
*[[Rototiller]] to prepare the soil.
*Power source such as [[LifeTrac]].
*Tractor to load the hopper (optional)

{{Wanted|Cost assessment of this. How much would an external hydraulic power source cost?}}

===The Liberator in action===
{{Wanted|Demo Photos.}}

{{Wanted|Video of building with it}}. Check youtube channel - [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_9rQ61wi_o][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aN5o-mdO1CY][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4cTyHedH58][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OU5ulNgiqo][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ju_tAn7Mw5c]

==Specifications==
{| cellpadding="6" cellspacing="2" border="1" align="center"
|-align="center"
! Bricks per minute output
! 16

|-align="center"
! Brick size
! 12x6x6 inches (30.5x15.3x10.2 cm)

|-align="center"
! People operating machine
! 1-2

|-align="center"
! Power source
! Tractor hydraulics or any hydraulic power source with 6 gallon per minute capacity (22.71 liters per minute)

|-align="center"
! Machine mounting
! tractor 3 point hitch or stand-alone foot

|-align="center"
! Hydraulic pressure
! 2000psi / 137.90 bar

|-align="center"
! Hydraulic cylinder
! 5 inch diameter, 19.6 inch area; 2.5 inch rod

|-align="center"
! Pressing cylinder pressure
! 39,250 lb pushing force (~18 tons)

|-align="center"
! Controls
! 2 spool, manual, hydraulic valve; automatic version forthcoming.

|-align="center"
! Compressive strength of bricks
! 795psi (54.81 bar) using plain earth. <br>1200psi (82.74 bar) with 10% Portland cement.<br>Strong enough to build a 60 storey building [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/2010/06/ceb-compressive-strength-test-results/]

|-align="center"
!
! Structural cold rolled steel construction throughout

|}

*Height: 6 foot 11 inches/ 210.82 cm
*Machine lifetime goals: 1 million bricks before repairs; liner may be replaced every 100,000 bricks
*Fabrication time requirement for optimized production: 3-5 days, about 20 hours of direct fabrication
*Manual fabrication tooling requirements: drill press, welder, acetylene torch
*Optimal fabrication tooling: XYZ table with torch, MIG welder, hoist
*Material costs: $1000-1350
*Cost for machine: you can build your own for $3-5k in parts, or buy a readymade one for $8k. Contact ''opensourceecology[at]gmail[dot]com'' if you want to buy a kit or a finished machine.

(All prices above are in US dollars.)

==Advantages of The Liberator==
[[File:Liberator_V_commercial.JPG|center|700px]]
*'''Easy repair'''. The Liberator was designed to make maintenance as easy and infrequent as possible. The part that is most likely to need replacement is a rubber sheet from McMaster-Carr. The press is designed for disassembly, so if repairs are needed, the cost should be minimal. And unlike commercial machines, you have all the blueprints and sources for parts here, so there should be no difficulty repairing it.
*Requires as little as 1 person to operate. The only control required is turning the machine on, and from that point one simply loads soil and unloads bricks. There is an alternative manual version for $500 less '''(Is that correct?)'''
*'''Modular power source'''. The Liberator does not have its own power source; it is designed to be attached to an external power source. This is in line with the [[Key Features of the GVCS|OSE principle]] of modularity; different tools can be run from the same power source, allowing the same tool to fulfill many functions flexibly. The power source could be the hydraulics from [[LifeTrac]] (our tractor any flexible source of machanical power), [[Power Cube]], or any hydraulic power source with a capacity of 6 gallon per minute (22.71 liters per minute).
*'''Large hopper'''. Compared to other CEB presses on the market, The Liberator has a very large hopper. We found with earlier editions that a small hopper requires constant loading and this slows down the construction process.

CEB Press Intro

2011-07-10T23:43:23Z

Conor:

{{OrigLang}}
{{Category=CEB press}}

{{ToolTemplate|ToolName=CEB Press}}

The '''"Liberator" Compressed Earth Block Press''' is a machine that makes compressed earth blocks ('''CEB'''s). It takes earth/dirt/soil and squeezes it really hard to make solid blocks which can be used for building. Compressed earth blocks have many advantages as a building material: by making the building materials from the ground on the site, they eliminate the need to cart them in from elsewhere. This cuts down the costs and environmental impact of transport. Compressed earth blocks are very strong and insulate well against both heat and sound. This makes for a very energy-efficient building. Best of all, there is no charge for using dirt; it is literally a dirt-cheap way of building! See the wiki page on [[Compressed Earth Blocks]] and the [[:Category:CEB|CEB category]] for more details on building with CEBs.

[[File:Machine.jpg|right|400px]]The Liberator has been fully designed and tested by the Open Ecology team. You can now follow the instructions to build your own, or contact ''opensourceecology[at]gmail[dot]com'' if you want to buy a kit or a finished machine.

Building a machine yourself might seem scary, but every step of the process is fully documented and the OSE community is available on our [http://openfarmtech.org/forum/ discussion forums] if you need help, advice, or a little hand-holding.

With the Liberator, two people can build a 6 foot high (1.83m) round wall, 20 feet (6.1m) in diameter, 1 foot (30cm) thick, in one 8 hour day - though construction time will vary somewhat depending on other factors: preparation time, what equipment is available (tractor etc.) and the quality of the soil. The bigger the block size, the faster a wall is errected. And obviously, the bigger the block size, the heavier the block. Blocks from ''The Liberator'' will average 25 pounds (11.3kg).

The [[Torch Table|torch table]] will be used to automate the fabrication of the CEB machine, reducing fabrication time by an estimated 20 hours and thus reducing the cost of the final product.

==How does it work?==
Loose dirt is loaded into the hopper at the top. This falls through to a chamber where a pair of hydraulic arms compress it and then eject it. This video shows how the machine works:

<div align="center"><html>
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</html>

<html>
<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/22102016?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" width="400" height="233" frameborder="0"></iframe><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/22102016">Complete CEB Walkthrough</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user2016419">Open Source Ecology</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>
</html>
</div>

===List of components===
The purpose is to explain the design very simply so that when it is explained in detail later, it will be easier to understand'''

The Liberator consists of -<br> {{Wanted|Refine this list (perhaps based on [[The Liberator Master Bill of Materials]] ). This list should be the model for the [[CEB Press Build Instructions|build instructions]].}}
*A hopper at the top which you fill with loose dirt. This is made from welded steel. We made the hopper six feet wide, so it can hold a lot of dirt.
*Grate and grate shaker - the grate is at the bottom of the hopper. The grate shaker shakes it so that soil falls through into the compression chamber, while large stones and things like that are caught in the grate.
*A compression chamber where the bricks are actually pressed. This is a metal box with a nylon liner bolted on the inside. The liner gives the bricks a smoother finish. It will have to be replaced every hundred thousand bricks or so.
*A frame that bolts together for easy assembly and disassembly.
*Hydraulic cylinders - These are the muscles of the machine; they apply the pressure to the dirt. They are readily removable with pins. There are two hydraulic cylinders:
**The soil drawer - this moves from left to right and performs the dual function of loading soil into the compression chamber and ejecting blocks from the machine
**The main cylinder, which moves up and down and compresses the blocks
*Tractor mount - this is where an external hydraulic power source can be attached to the hydraulic cylinders.
*Pressure gauge
*Arduino board controls the timing and sequence of operations.

<gallery widths="390px" heights="350px" perrow="2">
File:Machine-front.jpg
File:Machine-back.jpg
</gallery>

===Product Ecology===
*[[Rototiller]] to prepare the soil.
*Power source such as [[LifeTrac]].
*Tractor to load the hopper (optional)

{{Wanted|Cost assessment of this. How much would an external hydraulic power source cost?}}

===The Liberator in action===
{{Wanted|Demo Photos.}}

{{Wanted|Video of building with it}}. Check youtube channel - [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_9rQ61wi_o][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aN5o-mdO1CY][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4cTyHedH58][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OU5ulNgiqo][http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ju_tAn7Mw5c]

==Specifications==
{| cellpadding="6" cellspacing="2" border="1" align="center"
|-align="center"
! Bricks per minute output
! 16

|-align="center"
! Brick size
! 12x6x6 inches (30.5x15.3x10.2 cm)

|-align="center"
! People operating machine
! 1-2

|-align="center"
! Power source
! Tractor hydraulics or any hydraulic power source with 6 gallon per minute capacity (22.71 liters per minute)

|-align="center"
! Machine mounting
! tractor 3 point hitch or stand-alone foot

|-align="center"
! Hydraulic pressure
! 2000psi / 137.90 bar

|-align="center"
! Hydraulic cylinder
! 5 inch diameter, 19.6 inch area; 2.5 inch rod

|-align="center"
! Pressing cylinder pressure
! 39,250 lb pushing force (~18 tons)

|-align="center"
! Controls
! 2 spool, manual, hydraulic valve; automatic version forthcoming.

|-align="center"
! Compressive strength of bricks
! 795psi (54.81 bar) using plain earth. <br>1200psi (82.74 bar) with 10% Portland cement.<br>Strong enough to build a 60 storey building [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/2010/06/ceb-compressive-strength-test-results/]

|-align="center"
!
! Structural cold rolled steel construction throughout

|}

*Height: 6 foot 11 inches/ 210.82 cm
*Machine lifetime goals: 1 million bricks before repairs; liner may be replaced every 100,000 bricks
*Fabrication time requirement for optimized production: 3-5 days, about 20 hours of direct fabrication
*Manual fabrication tooling requirements: drill press, welder, acetylene torch
*Optimal fabrication tooling: XYZ table with torch, MIG welder, hoist
*Material costs: $1000-1350
*Cost for machine: you can build your own for $3-5k in parts, or [[Buy CEB Press|buy a readymade one here]] for $8k

(All prices above are in US dollars.)

==Advantages of The Liberator==
[[File:Liberator_V_commercial.JPG|center|700px]]
*'''Easy repair'''. The Liberator was designed to make maintenance as easy and infrequent as possible. The part that is most likely to need replacement is a rubber sheet from McMaster-Carr. The press is designed for disassembly, so if repairs are needed, the cost should be minimal. And unlike commercial machines, you have all the blueprints and sources for parts here, so there should be no difficulty repairing it.
*Requires as little as 1 person to operate. The only control required is turning the machine on, and from that point one simply loads soil and unloads bricks. There is an alternative manual version for $500 less '''(Is that correct?)'''
*'''Modular power source'''. The Liberator does not have its own power source; it is designed to be attached to an external power source. This is in line with the [[Key Features of the GVCS|OSE principle]] of modularity; different tools can be run from the same power source, allowing the same tool to fulfill many functions flexibly. The power source could be the hydraulics from [[LifeTrac]] (our tractor any flexible source of machanical power), [[Power Cube]], or any hydraulic power source with a capacity of 6 gallon per minute (22.71 liters per minute).
*'''Large hopper'''. Compared to other CEB presses on the market, The Liberator has a very large hopper. We found with earlier editions that a small hopper requires constant loading and this slows down the construction process.

Template:ToolTemplate

2011-07-10T23:40:33Z

Conor: Removing 'Buy' page from template. We're not ready for it yet

<div align=center>
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center
!colspan=3| <font size=4> {{{ToolName}}}</font>
|-
|   '''[[{{{ToolName}}} Intro|Intro]]  |  [[{{{ToolName}}} Development|Development process]]  |  [[{{{ToolName}}} Bill of Materials|Bill of Materials]]  |  [[{{{ToolName}}} Build Instructions|Build Instructions]]  |  [[{{{ToolName}}} user's manual|User's Manual]]'''    || [[File:{{{ToolName}}}icon.jpg|78px]]
|-
|}
</div>

Vermiculture

2011-07-10T23:33:47Z

Conor: /* Links */

{{Category=Soil and compost}}

[[File:Worms.jpg|right|400px]]Worms are a key part of most good local food systems. Their main purpose is to convert food waste into compost, which is excellent fertilizer for plants. Vermiculture is the practice of intensively farming worms; these worms then can be scattered around the garden, where they will improve the soil structure and nutrient profile, or they can be fed to small livestock

==Uses==
*Aerating [[:Category:Soil and compost|soil]]
*Making compost and compost tea for fertilizing gardens
*[[Integrated_Food_and_Waste_Management_System|IFWMS]]: Chicken feed; Fish feed in [[Aquaponics|aquaponics]]

==DIY wormeries==
*[http://www.instructables.com/id/Multi-Layer-Vermiculture-Bin/ Multi-layer vermiculture bin]
*[http://www.instructables.com/id/5-dollar-12-hour-Worm-Composting-Bins/ 5 dollar, 1/2 hour Worm Composting Bin(s)]
*[http://www.instructables.com/id/Its-a-Vermiculture-World/ It's a Vermiculture World]
*[http://www.instructables.com/id/The-Worm-A-Rater/ The Worm-A-Rater]
*[http://www.instructables.com/id/Worm-bin-bag-for-indoor-vermicomposting-and-easy-s/ Worm bin bag for indoor vermicomposting and easy separation of worms from compost]
*[http://www.instructables.com/id/Worm-Cafe-Compost-with-earthworms-right-in-your/ Worm Cafe - Compost with earthworms right in your garden]

==Links==
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compost#Vermicompost Wikipedia on Vermicomposting]
*[http://www.cityfarmer.org/wormcomp61.html cityfarmer.org page on worm composting]
*[http://www.bae.ncsu.edu/topic/vermicomposting/vermiculture/directory-by-state.html NC University-Directory of Vermiculture Resources]
*[http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/warr/spd_0201_bpgvermiculture.pdf Australia's New South Wales Goverment: "Best Practice Guideline to Managing On-site Vermiculture Technologies"]
*[http://vermicomposters.ning.com/forum/topics/manual-of-onfarm Manual of on-farm vermicomposting and vermiculture]

Global Village Construction Set

2011-07-10T22:18:56Z

Conor: Added a column to list project managers - this will hopefully help us see what projects need managers

{{mergefrom|Template:GVCS List}}

{{IncludeLang|GVCS List}}

<div style="text-align: right; direction: ltr; margin-left: 1em;"><flattr
uid="marcin_ose"
title="Global Village Construction Set"
description="The GVCS is a set of 50 tools / technologies for building post-scarcity, resilient communities."
category="text"
language="en_GB"
button="compact"
/></div>

= Introduction =

'''See http://opensourceecology.org for the official definition of the [http://opensourceecology.org/gvcs.php 50 GVCS Tools].'''

'''The [[Global Village Construction Set]]''' is a set of 50 [[wikipedia:Open Source Appropriate Technology|Open Source Appropriate Technology]] tools for building post-scarcity, resilient communities.

In this page, you will get an overview of each one of them, together with corresponding wiki pages, blog posts and forums.

See also the [[Crash Course]].

== Ideas ==

The ideas that guide the GVCS are:

'''Open Source''' - we freely publish our 3d designs, schematics, instructional videos, budgets, and product manuals on our open source wiki and we harness open collaboration with technical contributors.

'''Low-Cost''' - The cost of making or buying our machines are, on average, 8x cheaper than buying from an Industrial Manufacturer, including an average labor cost of $15 hour for a GVCS fabricator.

'''Modular''' - Motors, parts, assemblies, and power units can interchange, where units can be grouped together to diversify the functionality that is achievable from a small set of units.

'''User-Serviceable''' - Design-for-disassembly allows the user to take apart, maintain, and fix tools readily without the need to rely on expensive repairmen.

'''DIY''' - (do-it-yourself) The user gains control of designing, producing, and modifying the GVCS tool set.

'''Closed Loop Manufacturing''' - Metal is an essential component of advanced civilization, and our platform allows for recycling metal into virgin feedstock for producing further GVCS technologies - thereby allowing for cradle-to-cradle manufacturing cycles

'''High Performance''' - Performance standards must match or exceed those of industrial counterparts for the GVCS to be viable.

'''Flexible Fabrication''' - It has been demonstrated that the flexible use of generalized machinery in appropriate-scale production is a viable alternative to centralized production.

'''Distributive Economics''' - We encourage the replication of enterprises that derive from the GVCS platform as a route to truly free enterprise - along the ideals of Jeffersonian democracy.

'''Industrial Efficiency''' - In order to provide a viable choice for a resilient lifestyle, the GVCS platform matches or exceeds productivity standards of industrial counterparts.

= The tools =
{| style="width:100%;" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" border="1" align="left"
! TOOL
! DESCRIPTION
! IMAGE
! STATUS
! PROJECT MANAGER
! FORUM DISCUSSION
! BLOG
! OTHER WIKI ARTICLES

|-
! '''[[CEB Press]]'''
! A high-performance Compresssed Earth Block press. Compresssed Earth Block building is the highest quality natural building method. The page [[CEB intro]] contains introductory information on compressed earth blocks
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/compressed-earth-brick-press.png
! <font color=green>COMPLETE AND TESTED!</font>
! [[Marcin Jakubowski]]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/ceb-press/ ceb-press]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/category/global-village-construction-set/compressed-earth-block-press/ compressed-earth-block-press]
! [[:Category: CEB]]

|-align="left"
! '''[[LifeTrac|Tractor]]'''
! A versatile, 4-wheel drive, hydraulically-driven, skid-steering tractor with 18 to 200 horsepower capacity for agriculture, construction and other utility duties.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/lifetrac.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>
! [[Marcin Jakubowski]]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/lifetrac/ lifetrac]
!
! [[:Category: LifeTrac]]

|-align="left"
! '''[[Microtractor]]'''
! a small, 18 hp version of the full-sized tractor for powering a wide range of implements in agricultural and utility duties
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/microtrac.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>
!
!
!
! [[:Category: MicroTrac]]

|-align="left"
! '''[[Bulldozer]]'''
! A high-traction, heavy earth-moving machine indispensible for building ponds, berms, and other permacultural earthforms, as well as for other tasks such as building roads or clearing land
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/bulldozer.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Power Cube]]'''
! A multipurpose, self-contained, hydraulic power power unit that consisting of an engine coupled to a hydraulic pump
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/powercube.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>
! [[Marcin Jakubowski]]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/power-cube/ power-cube]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/category/global-village-construction-set/power-cube/ power-cube]
! [[:Category: Power Cube]]

|-align="left"
! '''CNC Precision Multimachine'''
! A multipurpose, precision CNC machining and metal cutting device for milling, lathing, drilling to make precision parts; includes surface grinding and cold-cut metal sawing
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/multimachine.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Ironworker Machine'''
! A device that can instantly cut steel and punch holes in metal one inch thick
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/ironworker.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''CNC Torch/Router Table'''
! A computer-controlled cutting table for metal where a moving torch head is used to produce precision metal parts in a fraction of the time that it takes to do so manually
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/torch-table.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>
!
!
!
! [[:Category: Torch Table]]

|-align="left"
! '''3D Printer'''
! An additive manufacturing technology where a three dimensional object is printed by laying down successive layers of material, just like a printer except in 3D
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/3d-printer.png
! <font color=green>COMPLETE AND TESTED!</font>
! The [http://reprap.org RepRap] community, led by Adrian Bowyer
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''3D Scanner'''
! A device that can generate a 3D digital scan from a real-life object, where the file can be used to reproduce the object in 3D with a device such as the 3D printer or CNC Precision Multimachine
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/3d-scanner.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[CNC Circuit Mill]]'''
! A computer-controlled device that can produce electrical circuits by milling and drilling on copper-clad circuit boards
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/circuit-mill.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Industrial Robot]]'''
! A robotic arm which can perform certain human tasks - such as welding or milling – for performing tasks that are not better done by humans
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/robotic-arm.png
! <font color=orange>IN DEVELOPMENT</font>
! [[Yoonseo Kang]]
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Laser Cutter]]'''
! An industrial machine that can make precision, finish cuts in a wide array of substrates, such as metal, wood, or plastic
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/laser-cutter.png
! <font color=orange>IN DEVELOPMENT</font>
! The [http://labs.nortd.com/lasersaur/ Lasersaur] team
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Open Source Welder]]'''
! A device used to make strong, permanent bonds in metal by melting and fusing the metal
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/mig-welder.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Plasma Cutter]]'''
! A device to cut metal using a plasma torch
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/plasma-cutter.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Induction Furnace]]'''
! An electrical furnace in which the heat is applied by induction heating of metal, providing clean, versatile, compact, energy-efficient, and well-controlled melting compared to flame furnaces
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/induction-furnace.png
! <font color=orange>IN DEVELOPMENT</font>
!
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/induction-furnace/ induction-furnace]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/category/global-village-construction-set/induction-furnace/ induction-furnace]
! [[:Category: Induction Furnace]]

|-align="left"
! '''Metal Rolling'''
! A metal forming process in which metal stock is passed through a pair of rolls to produce a desired shape, such as flat bar, angle, or u-channel
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/metal-rolling-machine.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Rod and Wire Mill'''
! A subset of metal rolling, used to make shafts, rebar, thin rods, and down to wire.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/wire-n-rod-mill.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Press Forge'''
! A device for shaping metal by the application of a shaping die and a continuous pressure or force.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/forge.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Modern Steam Engine]]'''
! A modern engine where an external heat source is used to turn water into steam, and the steam in turn moves reciprocating pistons to provide shaft power
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/steam-engine.png
! <font color=orange>IN DEVELOPMENT</font>
! [[Mark J Norton]]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/steam-engine-construction-set/ steam-engine-construction-set]
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/category/global-village-construction-set/steam-engine-construction-set/ steam-engine-construction-set]
! [[:Category: Steam Engine]]

|-align="left"
! '''Gasifier burner'''
! A clean and efficient burner that gasifies the material that is being burned prior to combustion
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/gasifier-burner.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Steam Generator]]'''
! A device that generates steam from water that is passed through externally-heated coils
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/steam-generator.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Solar Concentrator'''
! An array of mirrors to concentrate sunlight so it can boil water and drive a steam engine.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/solar-concentrator.png
! STATUS
! The [http://www.solarfire.org/ Solar Fire] team
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Wind Turbine]]'''
! A device that produces electrical power from wind energy
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/wind-turbine.png
! STATUS
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Aluminum Extractor from Clay'''
! A device that produces aluminum from clay by dissolving the aluminum from aluminosilicate (clay), and then electrolyzing the resulting compound to form pure aluminum
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/alluminum-extractor.png
! STATUS
! [[Edward McCullough]]
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Pelletizer]]'''
! A device that compresses shredded pieces of biomass or other substances to compact, flowable pellets
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/pelletizer.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Universal Seeder'''
! A tractor-pulled seeder than can plant any seed, from small seeds like clover to large seeds such as potatoes
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-seeder.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Rototiller]] and [[Soil Pulverizer]]'''
! A tractor implement that tills soil with blades via rotary action
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/pulverizer-tiller.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Spader]]'''
! A set of mechanical shovels that prepare soil for planting without causing a hardpan typical of rototiller tilling
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/spader.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Microcombine'''
! A small-scale harvester-thresher for mechanical harvesting of any grain crops, with a cutting swath of about 3 feet in width
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/microcombine.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Universal Rotor]]'''
! A tractor-mounted rotor that can be fitted with a wide array of toolheads, such as string trimmer, posthole digger, tree planting auger, slurry mixer, and many others
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-rotor.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Baler]]'''
! A device that compresses hay and other light and dispersed materials into more compact bales
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/baler.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Hay Rake'''
! A mechanical implement for a tractor that rakes hay or other light materials into windrows or other formations for drying or baling
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hay-rake.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Hay Cutter]]'''
! A device that cuts grass, hay, straw, or other light biomass for haying, baling, or combining
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hay-cutter.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Backhoe]]'''
! A piece of excavating equipment or digger consisting of a digging bucket on the end of a two-part articulated arm for digging trenches or large holes
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/backhoe.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Chipper/Hammermill'''
! A machine used for reducing wood or other materials into smaller parts, such as chips or shreds
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/chipper-hammermill.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Trencher]]'''
! A piece of construction equipment that uses a cutting wheel for digging trenches, laying pipe, cable, or drainage
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/trencher.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Open Source Car]]'''
! A wheeled motor vehicle for transporting people
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/automobile.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Open Source Truck'''
! A larger version of an automobile with a bed for transporting loads
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/truck.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Sawmill|Dimensional Sawmill]]'''
! A dimensional sawmill is a circular blade sawmill with 2 blades that is used for producing dimensional lumber in one pass
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/sawmill.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Cement Mixer]]'''
! A device that homogeneously combines cement, aggregate such as sand or gravel, and water to form concrete
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/cement-mixer.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Well-drilling Rig]]'''
! A device for digging deep water wells
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/well-drilling-rig.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Bakery Oven'''
! A device for heating various forms of dough into breads and other baked goods
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/industrial-bread-oven.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Dairy Milker'''
! A device which harvests milk automatically from milk-producing livestock
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/milking-machine.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Electric Motor/Generator'''
! A device that functions as a motor when energized with a voltage, which can also function as an electrical generator when it is spun.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/electric-motor-generator.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Hydraulic Motors'''
! A mechanical actuator that converts high-pressure fluid flow into rotation
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hydraulic-motor.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Bioplastic Extruder]]'''
! An extruder takes a charge of plastic and extrudes a sheet or other profile of useful form, such as greenhouse glazing or water tubing
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/plastic-extruder.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''Universal Power Supply'''
! This is a combination power supply for applications from off-grid power to supplying power to welders, induction furnaces, and plasma cutters.
!http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-power-supply.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Nickel Iron Batteries]]'''
! Long-life batteries that have a track record of lasting 50 or more years
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/nickel-iron-batteries.png
!
!
!
!
!

|-align="left"
! Drill press
!
! [[File:Multimachineicon.jpg|100px]]
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>
!
! [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/forum/drill-press/ drill-press]
!
! [[:Category: Drill Press]]

|-
|}

===Want to add another tool?===
If you think another technology belongs on the GVCS list, follow this procedure -
#Read the [[OSE Specifications]] and answer the [[OSE Specifications#Questionnaire|questionnaire]].
#If the tool scores highly on the questionnaire and meets most of the OSE specifications, start a thread on the [http://openfarmtech.org/forum/ forum] with a title beginning "Proposed Tool:" (e.g. "Proposed Tool: Washing Machine"). You may be challenged, and will have to convince the community that it is realistic and worth pursuing.
#If the consensus on the forum is in favor of adding the tool to the GVCS, feel free to edit the list above to add the new tool
#By proposing the tool, you take responsibility for it. You become project manager for that tool, and will have to build and prototype it yourself, or else recruit and manage someone who can.

====Proposed tools====
*'''Loader''' - an attachment for the [[LifeTrac]] tractor
*'''Village-scale washing machine''' - powered by the universal rotor
*'''Fridge''' - see the page on [[refrigeration]]
*'''Reversible heat pump''' - for controlling the temperature of homes and greenhouses, refrigerating food and medicine, harnessing solar and geothermal heat
*'''[[Stirling engine]]''' - transforms heat into mechanical energy
*'''[[Spectrometer]]''' and '''computer oscilloscope''' - adding these to the GVCS would form a complete Fab Lab. Most of the work will be done by other open-source groups.
*'''[[Juice Press]]''' - A juice press powered by the [[Power Cube]].
*'''[[Log Splitter]]''' - A log splitter powered by the [[Power Cube]].

= Videos =

See a 2 minute video explainer about the GVCS:

<html>
<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/16106427" width="500" height="310" frameborder="0"></iframe>
</html>

* [[H+ Presentation]]
* Overview presentation at [[Linz Slides]]

See latest presentation on the GVCS (as of June, 2010)
<html>
<object width="400" height="225"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=13020225&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=13020225&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="225"></embed></object><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/13020225">Marcin Jakubowski - part 1</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/eastbaypictures">East Bay Pictures</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>
</html>

Economy creates culture and culture creates politics. The politics we seek are freedom, voluntary contract, and human evolution in harmony with life support systems. Note that resource conflicts and overpopulation are eliminated by design. We are after the creation of new society, one which has learned from the past and moves forward with ancient wisdom and modern technology.

This is a real experiment, and product selection is based on us living with the given technologies. First, it is the development of real, economically significant hardware, product, and engineering. Second, this entire set is being compiled into one setting, and land is being populated with the respective productive agents. The aim is to define a new form of social organization where it is possible to create advanced culture, thriving in abundance and largely autonomous, on the scale of a village, not nation or state.

Here is a talk by [[Marcin Jakubowski]] on the GVCS at the 4th Oekonux Conference. <html>You can download the slides and see a transcript <a href="http://openfarmtech.org/index.php?title=Oekonux_4" target="_blank">here</a>.

First is an introduction by Franz Nahrada, leader of the <a href="http://globalvillages.ning.com/" target="_blank">Globally Integrated Village Environment</a>:<br>

<center> <script src="http://blip.tv/scripts/pokkariPlayer.js?ver=2008010901" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://blip.tv/syndication/write_player?skin=js&posts_id=1960623&source=3&autoplay=true&file_type=flv&player_width=&player_height=" type="text/javascript"></script>
<p id="blip_movie_content_1960623"> <a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentationIntroduction486.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960623(); return false;" rel="enclosure"><img src="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentationIntroduction486.flv.jpg" alt="Video thumbnail. Click to play" title="Click to play" border="0" /></a>
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentationIntroduction486.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960623(); return false;" rel="enclosure">Click To Play</a>
<br>
</center>

Here is the main body of the presentation.<br>

<center>
<script src="http://blip.tv/scripts/pokkariPlayer.js?ver=2008010901" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://blip.tv/syndication/write_player?skin=js&posts_id=1960410&source=3&autoplay=true&file_type=flv&player_width=&player_height=" type="text/javascript"></script>
<p id="blip_movie_content_1960410">
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960410(); return false;" rel="enclosure">
<img src="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv.jpg" alt="Video thumbnail. Click to play" title="Click to play" border="0" /></a>
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960410(); return false;" rel="enclosure">Click To Play</a>

</center>
</html>

Click the arrows on the sides to see other videos.</center></html>

A video presentation on the [[first year at Factor e Farm]] and the GVCS from 2007-2008 [http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-710075551990473235#20m24s here].

And you can also view a GVCS [[UM_Presentation|slide show presentation]] for more information.

=Product Selection Criteria=

See [[OSE Specifications]]

= Enterprise Community Contract =

We are proposing the formation of Global Villages in the form of productive enterprise communities that strive for unprecedented quality of life:
* material abundance
* freedom from bureacracy and unnecessary activity
* total focus on one's true interests

For our particular OSE prototype implementation, we are interested in the following general essence of an ''Enterprise Community Contract'':

* 2 hours of productive activity daily, such that 100% of the community's food, energy, housing, transportation, and technology essentials are produced for subsistence, with surplus production for market
** Agriculture base follows permaculture design, and includes production of water soluble organic fertilizer, orchard, nursery, and crops, as well as certain food processing and value added propositions
** Flexible fabrication produces advanced technologies ''at the cost of materials''
** Cost of living is reduced dramatically, from $20,000/year in the industrialized world, to negligible income requirements, under the assumption of high-tech self-providing
* Each participant undertakes a study program of full stewardship of the community, including:
** Agricultural production capacity
** Technological literacy to operate and maintain flex fab equipment and other machinery
** Numeracy to facilitate design
** Study of the mind and body to expand one's consciousness, skills, and abilities, and to disseminate such human augmentation widely towards eliminating mind control of the masses
* Entry of new people can be negotiated by the new participants providing skills and productive contribution to the community
* Beyond the 2 hour requirement, participants follow a research lifestyle to promote further development of the community or of the greater world

= Enabling Technology - Salient Features of Technology Base =

Without going into details, the main features for the comprehensive technology base are:

* ''Hybridization of power devices'' - decoupling of power source from the working unit in order to produce electrical drive is a formula for increasing integrated efficiency of electromechanical devices such as electric [[vehicle]]s, tools, heavy equipment, etc. For example, the hybrid car decouples the engine from its wheels by using an electrical generator to feed electric wheel motors. Note that this eliminates the clutch, transmission, crank case and its oil, differential, drive train, and other parts, and replaces these items with electric wire from the generator to electric motor. This is a huge efficiency leap, one in fuel efficiency, and two, in eliminating billions of dollars of industry which is outdated today due to the hybridization option. As such, we can talk of complex machines with huge simplification, assuming easy access to infinitely scaleable and controllable, low cost electric motors (these do not exist today). For example, we can envision an agricultural combine where each moving part is powered by its own electric motor - producing a leap in simplification and maintenance of the overall machine - as all belts, pulleys, gears, and other power transmission components driven by a single engine - are all replaced by electric wire. One can point to many examples where such strategy would provide leapfrog advance in device simplicity and maintenance.

* ''Solar turbine power generation including heat storage - look at [[Solar Turbine CHP System]]

* ''Open source fab lab'' - combine and expand the [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/multimachine/Multimachine] with xyz table as in RepRap (http://reprap.org/), and you can envision a robust fabrication device that integrates open source computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM). This device would perform a large variety of machining and fabrication operations, and would be producible at the cost of materials if metal casting is available. When deployed, we are talking of '''''producing any advanced object or device at the cost of materials'''''. ''Would you like to fabricate an electric motor for your personal transport vehicle? Here, I'll email you a file to make on your local village fabber''. In practice, one could conceptualize a single or several Multimachines, with their milling-drilling-lathing functions, surrounding an xyz motion platform with interchangeable heads. These heads could include acetylene torch attachment, plasma cutter, CO2 laser, router, hot wire, or additive heads such as a plastic extruder found in RepRap. This overall fab lab concept could start with a basic machine such as the Multimachine, with computer controls and table added in time. As such, this is a realistic proposition - with supporting open source knowhow with significant advancement already available. This propels civilization to new levels of decentralized material prosperity, and implies significant reduction of resource conflicts, especially if material feedstocks are sourced locally - as in the next point.

Here is an initial Fab Lab design:
[[Image:Fab_Lab.jpg]]

Here is a sample Product Matrix that falls right out of Fab Lab capacities:
[[Image:Product_Matrix.jpg]]

* ''Production of local feedstocks''-
** Wood and structural masonry compressed earth block (CEB) for construction - produced from on-site trees and soils
** [[Compressed Fuel Gas]] for cooking or melting metal - gas produced from trees
** [[Bioplastics]] - such as cellophane from trees
** Biofuels - [[Fuel Alcohol]] in temperate zones, palm oil in tropical zones
** Industrial detritus (waste materials) processing - includes [[Metal Casting and Extrusion]] or [[Plastic Extrusion & Molding]]
** [[Aluminum Extraction From Clays]]

= Sample Scenario =

Imagine a village with buildings of dirt (CEB) with year-round [[Greenhouses|greenhouses]] (sawmill, CEB, bioplastics from local trees), with all facility energy produced by a solar turbine, where people drive hybrid cars with car bodies (bioplastics) made from local weeds, with critical motors and metal structures (aluminum) extracted from on-site clay, which are fueled by alcohol produced on-site, on a wireless network linked to the greater world. That's just a sampling of the technology base. Food, energy, housing sufficiency. There are no poor among us - because we are all evolving human beings and farmer scientists.

= Development process =
[[GVCS Development Template]]

[[Product Cycle]]

[[Image:Engineering_Strategy.jpg]]

= Definition of Open Source Hardware and OSE Specifications =

See the updated entry for OSE Spec [http://openfarmtech.org/index.php?title=OSE_Specifications here].

We like to be clear about the meaning of ''open,'' or ''open source,''' as used in this work for items of physical production. By ''open source,'' we mean documented to the point where one may replicate a given item, ''without even consulting with the developers.'' To us, this embodies the most complete form of documentation possible, where sufficient detail is provided to enable independent replication. This is ''open source'' embodied in ''OSE Specifications''. Other features of OSE Specificationsare:

# Freely downloadable documentation
# DfD, lifetime design
# Simplicity and low cost are of prime importance
# Replaceable components
# Modular Design
# Scaleability
# Localization
## Level 1 - product fabrication or production is local
## Level 2 - material sourcing is local
# Product evolution - phases and versions are pursued
# Concrete Flexible Fabrication mechanism exists for others to purchase the product at reasonable cost
# Open franchising - replicable enterprise design is available, and training exists for entrepreneurs

Thus, these features are meant to promote ''[http://www.inclusivedemocracy.org/dn/vol4/fotopoulos_technology.htm#_ftn2 liberatory technology]'' - open, replicable, essential, optimal, and ecological goods and services for humankind living in harmony with natural life support systems.

= Working Assumptions =

Here is a partial list of assumptions that we are making as we go about the development work of this wiki. These assumptions help one to understand our motivations and approach.
# Civilization are shaped by their resource base. The resource base is what gives people power. By controlling others through an economic or social hierarchy, we can control resources, and thus gain power. Resource conflicts occur because people have not yet learned to manage resources without stealing. Society has not transcended the brute struggle for survival. We remain on the bottom steps of Maslow's pyramid. Transcending resource conflicts by creating abundance, first for hundreds, then for thousands of people, is now possible if knowledge flows openly and advanced technology is applied to produce goods.
# Said propaganda and conditioning has successfully removed the notion of self-sufficiency as a viable means of livelihood. Most people are afraid of self-sufficiency and consider it a return to the stone age. Most people cannot envision that advanced civilization can be created in small (100-1000 person), self-sufficient, highly skilled communities. Furthermore, most people do not realize that it is possible to educate, skill, and evolve human beings such that an integrated, self-sufficient lifestyle option that promotes advanced civilization on a small scale of human organization is created. It it possible to achieve this level of excellence if people are taught real knowledge and wisdom, as opposed to undergoing global workforce training.
# Education curricula have typically deleted practical applications deliberately, to produce subjects of the global workforce. If education is reinstated then self-sufficiency will emerge as a natural option.
# Self-sufficiency is not an antisocial behavior, but a means to full individual and community accountability for resource conflicts, foul politics, and other corruptions of large-scale endeavors. (review works of Gandhi, Schumacher, Fuller) Self-sufficiency is a means to highest quality life by definition, one is in control of one's destiny when one is self-sufficient. The assumption of self-sufficiency is that its practitioners must be highly skilled, and not products of centralist education.
# By self-sufficient, we mean in full control of providing one's needs. Note that self-sufficiency refers to needs - those things that allow one to survive in absolute health - and not wants. Self-sufficiency does not imply a solo, isolationist endeavor. Self-sufficiency may be accomplished with the help of as many people as it is possible to maintain full accountability, transparency, and sound ethics within that group. This group may be dispersed globally. Historically, sociology of human settlements has shown that this scale of self-sufficiency is a few hundred people. (see E.F. Schumacher; other references)
# The State promotes well-paid incompetence, largely through specialization, such that subjects produce sufficient surplus to pay for their own oppression.
# Education, media, and social engineering programs have subjugated human integrity to passive consumerism, with its related problems (resource conflicts, loss of freedom such as wage slavery). The only way out of this is creating a framework within which humans can prosper: provision of true education, learning of practical skills, stewardship of land, advanced technology for the people, and open access to economically significant know-how.
# Import substitution is reducing dependence on external feedstocks and replacing them with local ones. People in control of their resources control their own destiny. Thus, to localize the essential parts of an economy completely is the prime formula for social stability. Localization should not be considered a struggle, but merely a possibility. It is a possibility that is not recognized because most people, as specialists, lack integrated technical literacy and skills that make a local economy feasible.

= See also =

* [[Product Ecologies]] - illustrates how the different components of the GVCS relate with one another

[[Category: GVCS]]

File:Companion planted vegetable bed.jpg

2011-06-05T18:10:17Z

Conor: uploaded a new version of "File:Companion planted vegetable bed.jpg"

Vegetable growing

2011-06-05T18:06:22Z

Conor: I'm experimenting with using software to find guilds quickly

{{Breadcrumb|Food and Agriculture|Growing plants}}
This page discusses how to make vegetable beds more productive.

*Plant the vegetables in waves rather than in rows. This allows you to fit more plants in a bed without reducing the space between plants.
*Use mulch or living mulch such as clover. Clover will also improve the soil.
*[[Biochar]]
*[[Worms]]
*[[Mushrooms|Fungal symbiosis]]:
**Elm oyster mushrooms (''hypsizygus ulmarius'') or garden giants (''stropharia rugosoannulata'') grown in vegetable beds will raise vegetable yields while also producing edible mushrooms. Scatter some colonized grain, straw or cardboard into the beds.
**There is plenty of research showing that mycorrhizal spores increase yields. Liquid spore solution can be added to seeds. It is available quite cheaply [http://www.fungi.com/mycogrow/index.html here]. ''Mycelium Running'' say: "Mycorrhizologists harvest spores from wild or greenhouse-cultivated mycorrhizal puffball- or truffleshaped mushrooms from fungi like Glomus, Pisolithus, and Rhizopogon. Mature mushrooms are selected, pulverized into a powder, and then shaken through varied-size mesh screens until the fine spores fall through the bottommost screen (with the smallest openings)."
**Endophytic fungi (fungi that grow within plants) can boost yields
*Companion planting - see Wikipedia's [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_companion_plants list of companion plants]
[[File:Companion_planted_vegetable_bed.jpg|900px|thumb|center|An example of companion planting suitable for a vegetable bed. Green arrows show plants that benefit each other and red arrows show plants that harm each other. Note that the harmful interaction of brassicas and peppers is offset by planting mint, garlic and marigold between them, while the harmful effect of lettuce on brassicas is solved by putting carrot and rosemary between them. This is an example of a [[permaculture]] guild.]]

File:Companion planted vegetable bed.jpg

2011-06-05T18:02:15Z

Conor:

Vegetable growing

2011-06-05T15:01:29Z

Conor: Created page with "{{Breadcrumb|Food and Agriculture|Growing plants}} This page discusses how to make vegetable beds more productive. *Plant the vegetables in waves rather than in rows. This allow..."

{{Breadcrumb|Food and Agriculture|Growing plants}}
This page discusses how to make vegetable beds more productive.

*Plant the vegetables in waves rather than in rows. This allows you to fit more plants in a bed without reducing the space between plants.
*Use mulch or living mulch such as clover. Clover will also
*[[Biochar]]
*[[Worms]]
*[[Mushrooms|Fungal symbiosis]]:
**Elm oyster mushrooms (''hypsizygus ulmarius'') or garden giants (''stropharia rugosoannulata'') grown in vegetable beds will raise yields. Scatter some colonized grain, straw or cardboard into the beds.
**There is plenty of research showing that mycorrhizal spores increase yields. Liquid spore solution can be added to seeds. It is available quite cheaply [http://www.fungi.com/mycogrow/index.html here]. ''Mycelium Running'' say: "Mycorrhizologists harvest spores from wild or greenhouse-cultivated mycorrhizal puffball- or truffleshaped mushrooms from fungi like Glomus, Pisolithus, and Rhizopogon. Mature mushrooms are selected, pulverized into a powder, and then shaken through varied-size mesh screens until the fine spores fall through the bottommost screen (with the smallest openings)."
**Endophytic fungi (fungi that grow within plants) can boost yields
*Companion planting - see Wikipedia's [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_companion_plants list of companion plants]

Universal Rotor Intro

2011-05-20T15:09:49Z

Conor:

{{Breadcrumb|Food and Agriculture|Farm equipment|LifeTrac}}
{{ToolTemplate|ToolName=Universal Rotor}}

See [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/?p=1304 corresponding blog post].

The Universal Rotor is a structural assembly that holds a shaft with bearings, which is attached to the [[LifeTrac]] [http://openfarmtech.org/index.php/LifeTrac#Quick_Attach_Plate quick attach plate], or which can be detached and used in other applications. The hydraulic motor is interchangeable, and so far, a 32 cu in and a 6 cu in motors have been used. Motors at Factor e Farm have a quick mounting plate with 2 3/4" bolts for hold-down.

The assembly can be mounted either horizontally or vertically by bolting to a back plate accordingly.

This is a Universal Rotor which to date has been used as the basis of a [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/?p=2170string trimmer], tree planting auger, [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/?p=1408 lathe], [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/?p=2037 drill press], soil line cutting rotor, and [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/?p=2091 honey extractor].

Future work on this involves improved structural integrity, better mounting for LifeTrac, and improved interchangeability of motors.
[[Image:Multiauger.jpg]]

== CAD Drawings ==

[[Image:Universal_Rotor.png|thumb|right|200px|A rendering of the universal rotor done in BRL-CAD.]]
[[Image:Universal_Rotor_Sketch.png|thumb|right|375px|The model, exported from BRL-CAD to .stl format, loaded into freecad to generate the sketch, and then the saved sketch was cleaned up in inkscape.]]

I have put together a preliminary CAD drawing in BRL-CAD. The file is based on the picture above and the posted dimensions of the LifeTrac front plate specifications. Some of the dimensions I did not have data for so I just estimated from the scale in the picture. What I should be able to do is post a sketch of all the pieces made from the CAD file and then we can either have someone on the farm measure and post the corresponding dimensions for the files from the existing prototype, or we can just have a discussion on the wiki here about what the various measurements ''should be'' on future models, regardless of the dimensions of the prototype now in existence.

For now I am just posting a rendering of the CAD file, I can post the .g file once I get the exact dimensions for it.

'''Note: To the people at [[Factor e Farm]], if one of you could print the sketch of this machine and write on measurements for all the relevant dimensions and then re-scan the page with that information, I can update the model so it matches the as-built prototype you have at the farm. This could then serve as the basis for further refinements for the next prototype.'''

[[Category:GVCS 50]]

File:Universal Rotoricon.jpg

2011-05-20T15:09:06Z

Conor:

File:Well-drilling Rigicon.jpg

2011-05-20T13:02:17Z

Conor:

User talk:Patrick Gibbs

2011-05-14T13:00:33Z

Conor: Created page with "That permaculture software sounds awesome. Do keep me posted. Thanks for the heads up --~~~~"

That permaculture software sounds awesome. Do keep me posted. Thanks for the heads up --[[User:Conor|Conor]] 06:00, 14 May 2011 (PDT)

File:Industrial Roboticon.jpg

2011-05-14T12:55:37Z

Conor:

Industrial Robot Bill of Materials

2011-05-14T12:50:38Z

Conor:

{{ToolTemplate|ToolName=Industrial Robot}}

{| class="prettytable"
| <center>'''Item'''</center>
| <center>'''Quantity'''</center>
| <center>'''Description'''</center>
| <center>'''Weight (lb)'''</center>
| <center>'''Cost ($)'''</center>
| <center>'''Source''' </center>

|-
|Steel Foundation
| 1
|Steel structure to become the foundation, itself resting on the ground, upon which the industrial robot rests
|
|
|

|-
|Steel Base
| 1
|Steel base to rest upon the foundation and connect to the rest of the industrial robot
|
|
|

|-
|Steel Shoulder-Tilt to Elbow-Tilt Connector
|1
|Steel structure to join the shoulder-tilt motor on the base to the elbow-tilt motor in mid-air
|
|
|

|-
|Steel Elbow-Tilt to Wrist-Rotation Connector
|1
|Steel structure to join the elbow-tilt motor in mid-air to the wrist-rotation motor in mid-air
|
|
|

|-
|Steel Wrist-Rotation to Wrist-Tilt Connector
|1
|Steel structure to join the wrist-rotation motor in mid-air to the wrist-tilt motor in mid-air
|
|
|

|-
|Steel Wrist-Tilt to End-Effector-Rotation Connector
|1
|Steel structure to join the wrist-tilt motor in mid-air to the end-effector-rotation motor in mid-air
|
|
|

|-
|End-effector
|1
|The mechanical device used by the industrial robot to hold various module attachments for performing different tasks
|
|
|

|-
|Shoulder-Rotation Motor
|1
|Motor for rotating the shoulder of the industrial robot
|
|
|

|-
|Shoulder-Tilt Motor
|1
|Motor for tilting the shoulder of the industrial robot
|
|
|

|-
|Elbow-Tilt Motor
|1
|Motor for tilting the elbow of the industrial robot
|
|
|

|-
|Wrist-Rotation Motor
|1
|Motor for rotating the wrist of the industrial robot
|
|
|

|-
|Wrist-Tilt Motor
|1
|Motor for tilting the wrist of the industrial robot
|
|
|

|-
|End-Effector-Rotation Motor
|1
|Motor for rotating the end-effector of the industrial robot
|
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Note: Break down each item where possible or necessary

[[Category: Industrial Robot]]

Industrial Robot Build Instructions

2011-05-14T12:49:40Z

Conor:

{{ToolTemplate|ToolName=Industrial Robot}}

This guide will explain and illustrate the step-by-step process of assembling the industrial robot from its discrete components as outlined in the bill of materials.

[[Category: Industrial Robot]]

User talk:YK

2011-05-14T12:47:52Z

Conor:

Industrial Robot Assembly

2011-05-14T12:46:08Z

Conor: moved Industrial Robot Assembly to Industrial Robot Build Instructions

#REDIRECT [[Industrial Robot Build Instructions]]

Industrial Robot Build Instructions

2011-05-14T12:46:08Z

Conor: moved Industrial Robot Assembly to Industrial Robot Build Instructions

=Detailed Instructions=

This guide will explain and illustrate the step-by-step process of assembling the industrial robot from its discrete components as outlined in the bill of materials.

[[Category: Industrial Robot]]

Industrial Robot Intro

2011-05-14T12:45:16Z

Conor: Created page with "{{ToolTemplate|ToolName=Industrial Robot}} The industrial robot is a multi-axis machine that can hold various modules on its end-effector for performing different tasks such as ..."

{{ToolTemplate|ToolName=Industrial Robot}}

The industrial robot is a multi-axis machine that can hold various modules on its end-effector for performing different tasks such as welding and cutting. The systems engineering diagram provided in the industrial robot category summarizes the electronic configuration. The sensor array, shaft encoder, and power supply are relatively minor points that do not necessarily have to be addressed now (the robot can function without a sensor array, motors often come with a shaft encoder, power supplies are not really a part of the industrial robot but rather of other energy system projects).

The development of the industrial robot is comprised of 3 major parts: electrical design, mechanical design, and programming instructions.

Various toolpaths are required to complete these requirements for both the construction and the usage of the industrial robot. As of May 6, 2011, the toolpaths for the development of the industrial robot are not complete and must still be filled in/decided upon.

The task list provided in the industrial robot category gives a basic outline of all the development checkpoints.

The bill of materials provided in the industrial robot category is still under development as of May 6, 2011. The BOM lists all of the discrete components necessary to construct the industrial robot.

[[Category: Industrial Robot]]

[[Category: GVCS 50]]

Industrial Robot

2011-05-14T12:43:58Z

Conor: REDIREC

#REDIRECT [[Industrial Robot Intro]]

Steam Engine Build Instructions

2011-05-11T00:39:48Z

Conor:

{{Category=Steam Engine}}
{{ToolTemplate|ToolName=Steam Engine}}

This page will eventually give complete, detailed instructions on how to build the steam engine.

=Bump Valve Cover=

[[Image:Bump-Valve-Cover.png]]

Wind turbine Intro

2011-05-10T22:57:50Z

Conor: /* Kite generators */

{{Category=Wind energy}}

{{ToolTemplate|ToolName=Wind turbine}}

Open Source Ecology is involved in researching, developing and building open-source technologies for clean, local electricity-generation. As well as [[:Category:Solar Power|solar power]], we like wind power. Wind power or solar or both may be appropriate, depending on local materials and local weather conditions.

Specifically, we are interested in open-source designs for a wind turbine that can provide electricity for a small community. Small wind turbines like this are usually 7 feet (2m) to 25 feet (7.6m) in diameter.

==Design specifications==
{{Wanted|We need to define exactly what we need from our wind turbine. Edit this list.}}
*'''Scalability''' - scalable from ??? to ???
*'''Low-cost''' - must cost less than $1 for every watt it delivers when the wind speed is 3.3m/s (7.4 mph or 12 km/h)
*'''CAD files''' to allow parts to be digitally fabricated. We could just take an existing open-source design, and get one of our draftsmen to make the CAD file. Good CAD files could allow for scalable digital fabrication: the blades could be printed in a range of sizes, depending on what you need

==Existing open-source wind turbines==
Several wind turbines have already been open-sourced and it should be possible to use them for the [[Global Village Construction Set]]:

*[http://www.applied-sciences.net/library/zoetrope.php '''Zoetrope'''] is a vertical-axis wind turbine made from common materials such as stove pipe, metal brackets, plastic sheet and a trailer hub. Generates about 150-200W in winds of 20mph (32km/h). [http://www.applied-sciences.net/library/data/zoetrope-wind-turbine.pdf Construction Guide]. The major parts are: [http://69.175.14.181/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=22_30&products_id=175&osCsid=11bdc6671edf38fcc578ca1da051f8d8 parts kit for $159] (unless you could order one from a Fab Lab/ a hackerspace with a water-jet cutter), [http://www.amazon.com/2x1x1-Turbine-Generator-Neodymium-Magnets/dp/B0012DIXE4 24 neodymium magnets for $140], [http://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hubs-and-Drums/Dexter/34822BX.html?feed=npn trailer hub for $26]. There are also a bunch of pieces like nuts and bolts, but those are the main one, and come to $425 excluding shipping.
*[http://www.otherpower.com/otherpower_wind.shtml OtherPower.com] have several complete plans for wind turbines that can be built at home. Their site has -
**[http://www.otherpower.com/turbineplans.shtml Complete plans for a 10 foot (3m) turbine] that puts out 100W in 10mph (16km/h) winds and 700W in 25mph (40km/h) winds.
**[http://www.otherpower.com/bigmills1.html Design of a 14 foot (4.25m) turbine] that does 200W in 10mph (16km/h) winds and 1500W in 25mph (40km/h) winds. This is the record of a project rather than a replicable open-source design.
*[http://www.velacreations.com/chispito.html '''Chispito''' Wind Generator]. Chispito is made from recycled/salvaged materials, completely open-source with clear instructions and designed for simplicity. Open-source instructions for building both the turbine and the tower are available. Each turbine generates about 100W; most people seem to use a bunch of them. This is probably smaller that what we are looking for.
*http://www.scoraigwind.com/ has a lot of information on wind turbines, but no fully open-source plan
*[http://www.scoraigwind.com/pmgbooklet/itpmg.pdf Open source alternator] for wind turbines
*[http://www.onawi.org Onawi] is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to developing open-source wind turbines. No signs of progress yet, but watch this space.

==What kind of turbine?==
The first design decision we have to make is which kind of wind generator best suits our needs

===Vertical Axis Wind Turbine|Vertical-axis wind turbines===
[[File:Pac_wind.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Pacwind VAWT Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Seahawk]]
Verical Axis Wind Turbines or VAWTs offer a number of advantages over traditional horizontal-axis wind turbines (HAWTs). They can be packed closer together in wind farms, allowing more in a given space. This is not because they are smaller, but rather due to the slowing effect on the air that HAWTs have, forcing designers to separate them by ten times their width. VAWTs are rugged, quiet, omni-directional, and they do not create as much stress on the support structure. They do not require as much wind to generate power, thus allowing them to be closer to the ground. By being closer to the ground they are easily maintained and can be installed on chimneys and similar tall structures.

In addition, by being closer to the ground, VAWTs have the ability to take advantage of the tunnelling effects of small buildings and structures (provided the structures are build close enough) small VAWTs are also used in corners of buildings (usually the corner of a balcony).

Although VAWTs are not as efficient as HAWTs they are considered more reliable and much easier to maintain. One disadvantage of the VAWT is that the blade that moves ''into the wind'' also moves ''against'' the wind, slowing down the turbine. This could be addressed by a shield that adjusts to the direction of the wind and covers the blade that moves into the wind. This could be done with some kind of vane. However, this would complicate the design significantly, incl. bearings for the shield. So this may not be worth it ... probably easier to just build more VAWTs or build them bigger. But who knows ? Come up with a good sail/shield design and this might be just the breakthrough that VAWTs have been waiting for.

A good step by step guide can be found on [http://www.instructables.com/id/VAWT-Lenz-type-Stage-1-Converting-wind-power-to-/ this link]: a small Savonius wind turbine that takes advantage of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venturi_effect Venturi effect].

There is a small scale printable VAWT on thingiverse http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6899

===Horizontal-axis wind turbines===

===Airborne wind turbines===
A turbine attached to a lighter-than-air ballooon, such as being developed by [http://www.magenn.com/ Magenn]. I think we can reject this as too complex and too experimental for our purposes.

#[http://www.google.com/patents/about?id=2is6AAAAEBAJ Wind driven apparatus for power generation] - expired patent for a tethered airborne turbine. This design generates power at the turbine and transmits it to the ground.
#[http://peswiki.com/index.php/Directory:High_Altitude_Wind_Power High Altitude Wind Power at PESwiki]

===Kite generators===
A high-flying power kite tethered to a generator on the ground. The kite tugs on the tether, which spins a turbine and generates electricity. All the machinery can be kept at ground level; only the sail is airborne. This allows for easy maintenance.

The two main advantages of this design are that reaches the more powerful winds higher up, and it may come in cheaper than a turbine. [http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncer_abstracts/index.cfm/fuseaction/display.abstractDetail/abstract/8602/report/F This] report from the WPI Kite Power Team says there is an "anticipated 50% cost savings over wind turbines".

We can probably buy an off-the-shelf power kite. [http://www.aliexpress.com/product-fm/397570670-Kite-Power-Kite-Sport-Kite-5sqm-Sail-Area-Power-Tricktion-Kite-Quad-line-Control-wholesalers.html Here] is a 5m<sup>2</sup> one for $166. [http://www.virtualvillage.com/Items/003300-010 Here] is a 2.7m<sup>2</sup> one for $14. [http://www.powerkiteshop.com/ozone_method.htm This] seems to be a top-of-the-range one - it's $600 for 6.5m<sup>2</sup>. Alternatively, we could try to build our own kite.

This would need to be attached to the open-source [[electric motor]] we're designing, and a microcontroller. All the hardware is on the ground, which makes maintenance and set-up easier. The control will be the main design challenge.

#Ecoble article: [http://ecoble.com/2008/08/26/wind-power-generated-from-kites/ Wind Power Generated From Kites]
#at Delft University of Technology:[http://www.inhabitat.com/2008/08/05/kite-power-delft-univerity-of-technology/ Kite Power Could Generate Energy for 100,000 Homes]
#Autopilot [http://diydrones.com/profiles/blog/show?id=705844%3ABlogPost%3A44813 Arduino board for drones]
#[http://www.ted.com/talks/saul_griffith_on_kites_as_the_future_of_renewable_energy.html Saul Griffith on kites as the future of renewable energy]
#[http://www.wpi.edu/Pubs/E-project/Available/E-project-042607-112625/unrestricted/Wind_Power_from_Kites.pdf Academic project assessing feasibility of kite power] (link is to a 109 page pdf file). Gives technical details of the mechanism. Estimates 500W from a 2m<sup>2</sup> kite if the average wind speed in 8m/s
#http://climatelab.org/Airborne_Wind_Energy_Systems
#[http://www2.me.wpi.edu/wpi-kites/index.php/Main_Page WPI Kite Power Wiki] - ''"dedicated to developing a new renewable energy technology - Wind Power from Kites. In this concept, large kites tethered to the ground are used to extract power from the wind. Kites can extract power more economically than wind turbines because they fly at higher heights than turbines can operate."''
#http://www.kitegen.com/en/?page_id=7

==References==
* [http://www.peswiki.com/index.php/Review:Homebrew_Wind_Power Homebrew Wind Power], Dan Bartmann and Dan Fink, Buckville Publications LLC., released: January 1, 2009, 320 pages,
ISBN: 978-0981920108.

== See also ==
* [[Wikipedia:Wind turbine|Wind turbine]]
* [[Wikipedia:Wind turbine design|Wind turbine design]]
* [[Wikipedia:Small wind turbine|Small wind turbine]]

User talk:Nikolayhg

2011-05-10T22:42:52Z

Conor:

hi. i'm moving [[:Category:Education_team_member]] to [[:Category:Education_team]]. it's a more appropriate category name. also doing the same for CAD :)

Nikolay: okay, then do the same also for the IT Team.

--[[User:Syk0 saje|syk0saje]] 04:09, 4 May 2011 (PDT)

Hi Nikolay. I saw on [[Project needs]] you wrote that someone had been in touch with Onawi about open-source wind turbine plans. Who was in touch? Are they following up? --[[User:Conor|Conor]] 15:42, 10 May 2011 (PDT)

Mushrooms

2011-05-10T20:00:34Z

Conor: /* Water filtration */

{{Category=Controlled-environment growing}}
[[File:OysterMushrooms.jpg|right|350px]]
Mushrooms are the reproductive organs and the only visible part of fungi. The fungus organism consists mostly of mycelium, which is a web of very fine strands that stretch invisibly through the soil. The mycelium lives perennially and only produces mushrooms under certain conditions of humidity, light etc.

Mushrooms can fetch quite a high price compared to other foodstuffs, so their cultivation can be quite lucrative. Some edible mushrooms have shown impressive health benefits in studies and many help prevent cancer. Oyster mushrooms (shown to the right) hold a lot of promise for economic development; they grow aggressively in all kinds of substrates, including cardboard. By growing oyster mushrooms, you can transform old cardboard into delicious, valuable, cancer-fighting food.

=Open-source mushroom growing=
==Outdoor growing==
On a farm, mushrooms can provide delicious food with medicinal benefits while decomposing logs, grass, grain and other organic matter, sometimes including substances toxic to most other organisms, such as oil. Growing beneficial mushrooms also makes it harder for parasitical fungal blights to get a foothold. Sawdust, grain husks, wood chips, logs and manure generated on the farm can be used to grow mushrooms. You can grow mushrooms either on logs or else in beds of wood chips, depending on the species.

*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oyster_mushroom Oyster mushrooms, ''pleurotus ostreatus''] are by far the easiest mushrooms to grow, and among the most nutritious, with 15-30% protein content. They adapt to a huge range of substrates: grain husks (an opportunity here for farms growing grains!), straw, logs, or old shredded paper. After harvest, some of the substrate can then be taken out and surrounded with fresh substrate, allowing you to grow the colony. They have even successfully been grown on petrol and can therefore be used in turning spilt oil from a pollutant into a highly nutritious and beneficial substance.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiitake Shiitake, ''lentinula edodes''] can be grown on dead logs of oak, willow, birch, beech, alder, ironwood, eucalyptus and other broadleaf trees. A log, once inoculated with spawn, can continue to fruit for 3-6 years. The logs should not be in contact with the ground; they can be stood upright and their foot wrapped in a polyethylene bag, or they can be suspended on blocks. They will fruit at temperatures of around 10-26°C (50-80°F). See [http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/U/UNP-0025/UNP-0025.pdf ''Shiitake Mushroom Production on Logs''] (link is to a 34-page pdf file). Shiitake mushrooms have demonstrated anticancer, antibacterial and antiviral properties in trials and are delicious.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agrocybe Pioppino, ''Agrocybe aegerita''] can be in warm, humid climates. Culture the mycelium in sawdust. Bore holes into logs of hardwood trees like willow, poplar and maple and pack the sawdust in. Leave the logs lying half-buried. It is an excellent mushroom to use to recycle logs and a very tasty food.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enokitake Enokitake, ''Flammulina velutipes''] will survive very cold temperatures and can be grown in shredded paper or tree stumps. Fruits in winter. This mushroom has well-documented anticancer properties. The utmost caution should be taken not to confuse it with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conocybe_filaris conocybe] or [http://botit.botany.wisc.edu/toms_fungi/may2003.html galerina] fungi, which look similar and are deadly poisonous. Even when you have inoculated a log with enokitake, some native poisonous mushrooms can still grow there. Look at the gills (the underside of the cap) to tell; enokitake gills are white, whereas galerina and concybe have brown gills.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingzhi_mushroom Reishi, ''ganoderma lucidum''] is one of the most powerfully medicinal mushrooms. It grows natively over a broad area from the Amazon through North America and across much of Asia. It is hardy and easily grown. Drill holes in a log of any kind of tree and insert the cultured spawn into the holes.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grifola_frondosa Maitake, ''grifola frondosa''] grows in temperate regions, including the temperate forests of North America. Evidence suggests that they lower blood glucose and have anticancer and immunostimulatory properties. Colonize logs or stumps by drilling holes and plugging them with spawn, then bury the logs. They will fruit in September and October.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hericium_erinaceus Lion's Mane, ''hericium erinaceus''] can be grown on inoculated logs of oak, beech, elm, walnut and other trees. Research has found that they cause an increase in Nerve Growth Factor. Eating these literally gives you more brains.
*[http://www.mushroomexpert.com/hypsizygus_ulmarius.html Elm oyster, ''hypsizygus ulmarius''] can be grown by spreading mycelium in a vegetable patch and covering with sawdust mulch. It acts symbiotically with vegetable roots and encourages their growth.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaga_mushroom Chaga, ''inonotus obliquus''] can be inoculated into dead or dying birch, beech, oak and ironwood trees. Chaga is consumed as a bitter tea and has considerable antitumor properties.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleurotus_eryngii King oyster, ''pleurotus eryngii''] is a gourmet mushroom. It can be grown on half-buried logs. It fruits in spring and summer in the Mediterranean region. According to ''Mycelium Running'', it breaks down toxic dioxins in the environment.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stropharia_rugosoannulata Garden giant, ''stropharia rugosoannulata''], is a huge red mushroom native to Europe, New Zealand, Japan and the Atlantic coast of the US. Can be grown by scattering inoculated sawdust into a raked bed of wood chips or straw. It attracts earthworms and purges coliforms from soil.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trametes_versicolor Turkey Tail, ''trametes versicolor''] is a shelf mushroom that grows all over the world from the tropics to boreal forests. It has well-documented anticancer properties and is possibly the most powerful of all the cancer-fighting mushrooms. It can be grown on any hardwood tree in exactly the same manner as reishi. A single log can grow both reishi and Turkey Tail. Growing Turkey Tail in an agroecosystem is a good way to outcompete parasitic blight fungi.

==Indoor growing==
''This section is a stub''

[[File:Shiitake.JPG|right|250px]][[:Category:Controlled-environment growing|Growing indoors]] allows you to grow a greater variety of mushrooms than you could outdoors. The main advantage is rapid, constant, year-round yield. By growing indoors, you can grow ten harvests a year instead of one.

===Overview===
Growing mushrooms indoors involves the following steps -
#First, inoculate sterile agar with mushroom spores. Incubate the agar for a few days to allow mycelium to grow. (You can skip this step if you are starting with mycelium rather than spores.)
#Next, prepare the substrate. This involves sterilizing the substrate, often by boiling it in a pot or pressure cooker. This is done to kill other bacterial and fungal species that would compete with the mycelium you are trying to grow.
#Now isolate the mycelium from the agar and put it onto your sterile substrate.
#The next step is to allow the mycelium to spread through the substrate. This is done by incubating it in a dark place. This simulates the mycelium expanding through soil, as would happen in nature. When the substrate is completely covered in mycelium, you are ready to get it to sprout mushrooms.
#The next step is called 'casing'. This means covering the substrate with a thin layer of soil or something similar. This makes the mycelium think it is slightly underground, which encourages it to grow mushrooms.
#Now move the substrate into the fruiting conditions. These conditions vary from species to species, but usually you need to increase humidity and CO<sub>2</sub> concentration and exposing them to light. This simulates the season at which mushrooms appear in outdoor growing.
#Harvest your mushrooms!
#Take spore prints or samples of mycelium from the mushrooms so you can repeat the process

===Equipment===
*Alcohol-burning lamp or bunsen burner. [http://www.instructables.com/id/Alcohol-Burner/ Instructables alcohol burner].
*Scalpel and inoculating loop
*Potato Dextrose Yeast Agar or Malt Extract agar.

====Small-scale growing====
*Glovebox. Get a large plastic box. Cut two holes in. Duct-tape rubber kitchen gloves into the holes. This serves as a miniature sterile lab where you can do inoculation and other sterile work.
*Pressure cooker to sterilize the substrate.
*Terrarium for fruiting the mushrooms can be made from an old aquarium or any box that lets light in. Wet perlite at the bottom will provide humidity.

====Medium-scale growing====
*A broken refrigerator makes an excellent chamber to incubate mycelium (step 4 above). It is dark, well-insulated and, most importantly, is sealed against contaminated air.
*A small room or closet with an antechamber. Remove all carpets, fabrics, and other porous material that could harbour contaminants,
*Laminar flow hood. [http://arkfab.org/?tag=diy-laminar-flow-hood]

====Large-scale growing====
The basic challenge is to build a room that can easily be kept sterile to avoid contamination and is equipped for measuring and controlling levels of light, carbon dioxide, humidity and temperature. The room needs to have a controlled air supply which can be sterilized and humidified.

ArkFab are working on [http://arkfab.org/?p=118 Spore v.2] an open-source mushroom grow house made of [[shipping containers]]. Their design ([http://arkfab.org/?p=209 here]) is projected to grow 80lb (36kg) of mushrooms per week.

*[http://www.refarmthecity.org/wiki/index.php?title=Humidity Cheap, open-source humidity sensor]
*CO<sub>2</sub> sensor. It would be nice to get this open-sourced. Useful for greenhouse growing in general.
*Ultraviolet lamps might be a more cost-effective way to sterilize incoming air than HEPA filters. The duct should be lined with mirrors to maximise the use of the UV rays [http://www.scribd.com/doc/51561573/2008-ASHRAE-HVAC-Handbook-Chapter-sixteen-Ultraviolet-Lamp-Systems]

===Substrates===
*Vermiculite
*Straw
*Coffee grounds
*Grain husks
*[http://img.moonbuggy.org/holy-mushroom-bible/ Weird ones]

===Mushrooms===
*'''Psilocybe genus'''. These are illegal to cultivate and sell in most countries. Spores are generally legal to possess, except in California, Georgia, Idaho and Germany [http://www.erowid.org/plants/mushrooms/mushrooms_law8.shtml]. They are harder to grow than most mushrooms, and are especially sensitive to contamination; you need to be very careful to keep the environment sterile. Usually grown by inoculating spores into rye grain or cakes made from brown rice flour.
*'''Shiitake''' mushrooms can be grown without the need to control CO<sub>2</sub> levels. This would reduce start-up costs. Logs of hardwood, such as oak, can be used as a substrate.
*'''Oyster mushrooms''' can be grown on cardboard that has been sterilized by boiling it. See [http://www.redoakmushroom.com/?p=4 here] for instructions.
*'''Cordyceps sinensis''' can fetch $10-20 a gram. Only a few people have managed to grow it successfully.

=Other uses of mushrooms=
==Enhancing plant growth==
The mycelium of fungi often form a symbiotic unit called a mycorrhiza with a plant root. The Elm oyster mushroom, ''hypsizygus ulmarius'' can be grown in vegetable patches and is said to significantly increase yields.

The plant roots provide the mycelium with sugars, and the mycelium provides the roots with water and minerals in a bioavailable form.

Mycelial strands are only one cell thick, much thinner than any root, and so can reach smaller spaces in the soil to extract nutrients. And mycelium excretes enzymes that plants cannot, breaking down soil nutrients into bioavailable forms.

In addition, beneficial fungi around a plant's roots stop pathogenic fungi from forming there.

==Mycoremediation==
''This section is a stub''

Fungi were the first form of life to leave the sea and colonize the land. They prepared the earth for other life to flourish back then - and they can do it again. The role of mushrooms in the ecosystem is as pioneers; different mushrooms secrete a vast range of enzymes that can digest just about anything, including rock, toxins, pollutants, crude oil and chemical warfare agents.

Mycelium can destroy pavement and turn it into soil.

See: [http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/6170694/Mycelium_Running Mycelium Running] by Paul Stamets

==Bioplastics==
''This section is a stub''

The mycelium of certain species of mushrooms can turn grain husks into useful materials. 'Greensulate' is a low-impact alternative to styrofoam made from rice hulls digested by oyster mushroom mycelium.

==Insecticide==
''This section is a stub''

[[File:Cordyceps.jpg|right|thumb|Spores of fungi like ''cordyceps'' can infect insects and sprout mushrooms from inside the host's body.]]Mycowizard Paul Stamets has patented a technique of using metarhizium spores to repel termites, carpenter ants and other such social insects. The fungus infects these insects, and the insects know it and stay away from any area where the spores are present.

*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entomopathogenic_fungus
*http://www.scitopics.com/Ecology_of_entomopathogenic_fungi_in_agroecosystems.html

==Biofuel==
''This section is a stub''

Mushrooms can convert cellulose to ethanol

==Water filtration==
''This section is a stub''

Put colonized bags in a stream and they can not only filter out hydrocarbons like benzene, but turn them into valuable food.

Bags of King Stropharia (''stropharia rugosoannulata'') will filter coliform bacteria out of water streams coming from cattle-feeding operations.

=Links=
==Sources==
*[http://fungi.com/ Fungi.com] - This site sells all kinds of mushroom growkits. They have developed a method of filling little wooden plugs with spores. 30-50 of these plugs ($3-5) can be stuck in a short log so that the mycelium completely colonize the log. Buy them [http://fungi.com/plugs/index.html here]. They also sell [http://fungi.com/kits/indoor.html indoor growkits] including shiitake, oyster, reishi, maitake and Lion's Mane mushrooms, all for about $26 - meaning you'd break even if you grew 4lbs
*[http://www.bemushroomed.com Bemushroomed] - an online [[Community Gene Bank|community gene bank]] where you can get spores and spawn for free through the generosity of other growers.
==Instructional==
*[http://www.shroomery.org/ The Shroomery] is a great, very educational website, focused mostly, but not entirely, on psilocybin mushrooms. There is a thriving forum community full of people who know a thing or two about mushrooms. The forum includes a [http://www.shroomery.org/forums/postlist.php/Board/13 board on edible and medicinal mushrooms]. You can get free cultures there if you ask nicely.
*[http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/4070954/An_Introduction_to_Permaculture 12 gig torrent on permaculture], includes a folder of material from mushroom man Paul Stamets, and two instructional video series on growing mushrooms.
*[http://www.mediafire.com/?g2mwkv5olqw ''Growing Gourmet And Medicinal Mushrooms''] and [http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/3938897/Ebook_-_Mushrooms_-_The_Mushroom_Cultivator.pdf ''The Mushroom Cultivator''] books by Paul Stamets. Various techniques for cultivating different kinds of mushrooms.
*[http://arkfab.org/?tag=mushroom-farm Arkfab] are developing open-source hardware for growing mushrooms. Watch this space.
==Other==
* [http://www.ted.com/talks/paul_stamets_on_6_ways_mushrooms_can_save_the_world.html Paul Stamets on 6 ways mushrooms can save the world] - TED video - Mycologist Paul Stamets lists 6 ways the mycelium fungus can help save the universe: cleaning polluted soil, making insecticides, treating smallpox and even flu.

Mushrooms

2011-05-10T19:53:46Z

Conor: Mycorrhiza

{{Category=Controlled-environment growing}}
[[File:OysterMushrooms.jpg|right|350px]]
Mushrooms are the reproductive organs and the only visible part of fungi. The fungus organism consists mostly of mycelium, which is a web of very fine strands that stretch invisibly through the soil. The mycelium lives perennially and only produces mushrooms under certain conditions of humidity, light etc.

Mushrooms can fetch quite a high price compared to other foodstuffs, so their cultivation can be quite lucrative. Some edible mushrooms have shown impressive health benefits in studies and many help prevent cancer. Oyster mushrooms (shown to the right) hold a lot of promise for economic development; they grow aggressively in all kinds of substrates, including cardboard. By growing oyster mushrooms, you can transform old cardboard into delicious, valuable, cancer-fighting food.

=Open-source mushroom growing=
==Outdoor growing==
On a farm, mushrooms can provide delicious food with medicinal benefits while decomposing logs, grass, grain and other organic matter, sometimes including substances toxic to most other organisms, such as oil. Growing beneficial mushrooms also makes it harder for parasitical fungal blights to get a foothold. Sawdust, grain husks, wood chips, logs and manure generated on the farm can be used to grow mushrooms. You can grow mushrooms either on logs or else in beds of wood chips, depending on the species.

*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oyster_mushroom Oyster mushrooms, ''pleurotus ostreatus''] are by far the easiest mushrooms to grow, and among the most nutritious, with 15-30% protein content. They adapt to a huge range of substrates: grain husks (an opportunity here for farms growing grains!), straw, logs, or old shredded paper. After harvest, some of the substrate can then be taken out and surrounded with fresh substrate, allowing you to grow the colony. They have even successfully been grown on petrol and can therefore be used in turning spilt oil from a pollutant into a highly nutritious and beneficial substance.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiitake Shiitake, ''lentinula edodes''] can be grown on dead logs of oak, willow, birch, beech, alder, ironwood, eucalyptus and other broadleaf trees. A log, once inoculated with spawn, can continue to fruit for 3-6 years. The logs should not be in contact with the ground; they can be stood upright and their foot wrapped in a polyethylene bag, or they can be suspended on blocks. They will fruit at temperatures of around 10-26°C (50-80°F). See [http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/U/UNP-0025/UNP-0025.pdf ''Shiitake Mushroom Production on Logs''] (link is to a 34-page pdf file). Shiitake mushrooms have demonstrated anticancer, antibacterial and antiviral properties in trials and are delicious.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agrocybe Pioppino, ''Agrocybe aegerita''] can be in warm, humid climates. Culture the mycelium in sawdust. Bore holes into logs of hardwood trees like willow, poplar and maple and pack the sawdust in. Leave the logs lying half-buried. It is an excellent mushroom to use to recycle logs and a very tasty food.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enokitake Enokitake, ''Flammulina velutipes''] will survive very cold temperatures and can be grown in shredded paper or tree stumps. Fruits in winter. This mushroom has well-documented anticancer properties. The utmost caution should be taken not to confuse it with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conocybe_filaris conocybe] or [http://botit.botany.wisc.edu/toms_fungi/may2003.html galerina] fungi, which look similar and are deadly poisonous. Even when you have inoculated a log with enokitake, some native poisonous mushrooms can still grow there. Look at the gills (the underside of the cap) to tell; enokitake gills are white, whereas galerina and concybe have brown gills.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingzhi_mushroom Reishi, ''ganoderma lucidum''] is one of the most powerfully medicinal mushrooms. It grows natively over a broad area from the Amazon through North America and across much of Asia. It is hardy and easily grown. Drill holes in a log of any kind of tree and insert the cultured spawn into the holes.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grifola_frondosa Maitake, ''grifola frondosa''] grows in temperate regions, including the temperate forests of North America. Evidence suggests that they lower blood glucose and have anticancer and immunostimulatory properties. Colonize logs or stumps by drilling holes and plugging them with spawn, then bury the logs. They will fruit in September and October.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hericium_erinaceus Lion's Mane, ''hericium erinaceus''] can be grown on inoculated logs of oak, beech, elm, walnut and other trees. Research has found that they cause an increase in Nerve Growth Factor. Eating these literally gives you more brains.
*[http://www.mushroomexpert.com/hypsizygus_ulmarius.html Elm oyster, ''hypsizygus ulmarius''] can be grown by spreading mycelium in a vegetable patch and covering with sawdust mulch. It acts symbiotically with vegetable roots and encourages their growth.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chaga_mushroom Chaga, ''inonotus obliquus''] can be inoculated into dead or dying birch, beech, oak and ironwood trees. Chaga is consumed as a bitter tea and has considerable antitumor properties.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleurotus_eryngii King oyster, ''pleurotus eryngii''] is a gourmet mushroom. It can be grown on half-buried logs. It fruits in spring and summer in the Mediterranean region. According to ''Mycelium Running'', it breaks down toxic dioxins in the environment.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stropharia_rugosoannulata Garden giant, ''stropharia rugosoannulata''], is a huge red mushroom native to Europe, New Zealand, Japan and the Atlantic coast of the US. Can be grown by scattering inoculated sawdust into a raked bed of wood chips or straw. It attracts earthworms and purges coliforms from soil.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trametes_versicolor Turkey Tail, ''trametes versicolor''] is a shelf mushroom that grows all over the world from the tropics to boreal forests. It has well-documented anticancer properties and is possibly the most powerful of all the cancer-fighting mushrooms. It can be grown on any hardwood tree in exactly the same manner as reishi. A single log can grow both reishi and Turkey Tail. Growing Turkey Tail in an agroecosystem is a good way to outcompete parasitic blight fungi.

==Indoor growing==
''This section is a stub''

[[File:Shiitake.JPG|right|250px]][[:Category:Controlled-environment growing|Growing indoors]] allows you to grow a greater variety of mushrooms than you could outdoors. The main advantage is rapid, constant, year-round yield. By growing indoors, you can grow ten harvests a year instead of one.

===Overview===
Growing mushrooms indoors involves the following steps -
#First, inoculate sterile agar with mushroom spores. Incubate the agar for a few days to allow mycelium to grow. (You can skip this step if you are starting with mycelium rather than spores.)
#Next, prepare the substrate. This involves sterilizing the substrate, often by boiling it in a pot or pressure cooker. This is done to kill other bacterial and fungal species that would compete with the mycelium you are trying to grow.
#Now isolate the mycelium from the agar and put it onto your sterile substrate.
#The next step is to allow the mycelium to spread through the substrate. This is done by incubating it in a dark place. This simulates the mycelium expanding through soil, as would happen in nature. When the substrate is completely covered in mycelium, you are ready to get it to sprout mushrooms.
#The next step is called 'casing'. This means covering the substrate with a thin layer of soil or something similar. This makes the mycelium think it is slightly underground, which encourages it to grow mushrooms.
#Now move the substrate into the fruiting conditions. These conditions vary from species to species, but usually you need to increase humidity and CO<sub>2</sub> concentration and exposing them to light. This simulates the season at which mushrooms appear in outdoor growing.
#Harvest your mushrooms!
#Take spore prints or samples of mycelium from the mushrooms so you can repeat the process

===Equipment===
*Alcohol-burning lamp or bunsen burner. [http://www.instructables.com/id/Alcohol-Burner/ Instructables alcohol burner].
*Scalpel and inoculating loop
*Potato Dextrose Yeast Agar or Malt Extract agar.

====Small-scale growing====
*Glovebox. Get a large plastic box. Cut two holes in. Duct-tape rubber kitchen gloves into the holes. This serves as a miniature sterile lab where you can do inoculation and other sterile work.
*Pressure cooker to sterilize the substrate.
*Terrarium for fruiting the mushrooms can be made from an old aquarium or any box that lets light in. Wet perlite at the bottom will provide humidity.

====Medium-scale growing====
*A broken refrigerator makes an excellent chamber to incubate mycelium (step 4 above). It is dark, well-insulated and, most importantly, is sealed against contaminated air.
*A small room or closet with an antechamber. Remove all carpets, fabrics, and other porous material that could harbour contaminants,
*Laminar flow hood. [http://arkfab.org/?tag=diy-laminar-flow-hood]

====Large-scale growing====
The basic challenge is to build a room that can easily be kept sterile to avoid contamination and is equipped for measuring and controlling levels of light, carbon dioxide, humidity and temperature. The room needs to have a controlled air supply which can be sterilized and humidified.

ArkFab are working on [http://arkfab.org/?p=118 Spore v.2] an open-source mushroom grow house made of [[shipping containers]]. Their design ([http://arkfab.org/?p=209 here]) is projected to grow 80lb (36kg) of mushrooms per week.

*[http://www.refarmthecity.org/wiki/index.php?title=Humidity Cheap, open-source humidity sensor]
*CO<sub>2</sub> sensor. It would be nice to get this open-sourced. Useful for greenhouse growing in general.
*Ultraviolet lamps might be a more cost-effective way to sterilize incoming air than HEPA filters. The duct should be lined with mirrors to maximise the use of the UV rays [http://www.scribd.com/doc/51561573/2008-ASHRAE-HVAC-Handbook-Chapter-sixteen-Ultraviolet-Lamp-Systems]

===Substrates===
*Vermiculite
*Straw
*Coffee grounds
*Grain husks
*[http://img.moonbuggy.org/holy-mushroom-bible/ Weird ones]

===Mushrooms===
*'''Psilocybe genus'''. These are illegal to cultivate and sell in most countries. Spores are generally legal to possess, except in California, Georgia, Idaho and Germany [http://www.erowid.org/plants/mushrooms/mushrooms_law8.shtml]. They are harder to grow than most mushrooms, and are especially sensitive to contamination; you need to be very careful to keep the environment sterile. Usually grown by inoculating spores into rye grain or cakes made from brown rice flour.
*'''Shiitake''' mushrooms can be grown without the need to control CO<sub>2</sub> levels. This would reduce start-up costs. Logs of hardwood, such as oak, can be used as a substrate.
*'''Oyster mushrooms''' can be grown on cardboard that has been sterilized by boiling it. See [http://www.redoakmushroom.com/?p=4 here] for instructions.
*'''Cordyceps sinensis''' can fetch $10-20 a gram. Only a few people have managed to grow it successfully.

=Other uses of mushrooms=
==Enhancing plant growth==
The mycelium of fungi often form a symbiotic unit called a mycorrhiza with a plant root. The Elm oyster mushroom, ''hypsizygus ulmarius'' can be grown in vegetable patches and is said to significantly increase yields.

The plant roots provide the mycelium with sugars, and the mycelium provides the roots with water and minerals in a bioavailable form.

Mycelial strands are only one cell thick, much thinner than any root, and so can reach smaller spaces in the soil to extract nutrients. And mycelium excretes enzymes that plants cannot, breaking down soil nutrients into bioavailable forms.

In addition, beneficial fungi around a plant's roots stop pathogenic fungi from forming there.

==Mycoremediation==
''This section is a stub''

Fungi were the first form of life to leave the sea and colonize the land. They prepared the earth for other life to flourish back then - and they can do it again. The role of mushrooms in the ecosystem is as pioneers; different mushrooms secrete a vast range of enzymes that can digest just about anything, including rock, toxins, pollutants, crude oil and chemical warfare agents.

Mycelium can destroy pavement and turn it into soil.

See: [http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/6170694/Mycelium_Running Mycelium Running] by Paul Stamets

==Bioplastics==
''This section is a stub''

The mycelium of certain species of mushrooms can turn grain husks into useful materials. 'Greensulate' is a low-impact alternative to styrofoam made from rice hulls digested by oyster mushroom mycelium.

==Insecticide==
''This section is a stub''

[[File:Cordyceps.jpg|right|thumb|Spores of fungi like ''cordyceps'' can infect insects and sprout mushrooms from inside the host's body.]]Mycowizard Paul Stamets has patented a technique of using metarhizium spores to repel termites, carpenter ants and other such social insects. The fungus infects these insects, and the insects know it and stay away from any area where the spores are present.

*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entomopathogenic_fungus
*http://www.scitopics.com/Ecology_of_entomopathogenic_fungi_in_agroecosystems.html

==Biofuel==
''This section is a stub''

Mushrooms can convert cellulose to ethanol

==Water filtration==
''This section is a stub''

Put colonized bags in a stream and they can not only filter out hydrocarbons like benzene, but turn them into valuable food.

=Links=
==Sources==
*[http://fungi.com/ Fungi.com] - This site sells all kinds of mushroom growkits. They have developed a method of filling little wooden plugs with spores. 30-50 of these plugs ($3-5) can be stuck in a short log so that the mycelium completely colonize the log. Buy them [http://fungi.com/plugs/index.html here]. They also sell [http://fungi.com/kits/indoor.html indoor growkits] including shiitake, oyster, reishi, maitake and Lion's Mane mushrooms, all for about $26 - meaning you'd break even if you grew 4lbs
*[http://www.bemushroomed.com Bemushroomed] - an online [[Community Gene Bank|community gene bank]] where you can get spores and spawn for free through the generosity of other growers.
==Instructional==
*[http://www.shroomery.org/ The Shroomery] is a great, very educational website, focused mostly, but not entirely, on psilocybin mushrooms. There is a thriving forum community full of people who know a thing or two about mushrooms. The forum includes a [http://www.shroomery.org/forums/postlist.php/Board/13 board on edible and medicinal mushrooms]. You can get free cultures there if you ask nicely.
*[http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/4070954/An_Introduction_to_Permaculture 12 gig torrent on permaculture], includes a folder of material from mushroom man Paul Stamets, and two instructional video series on growing mushrooms.
*[http://www.mediafire.com/?g2mwkv5olqw ''Growing Gourmet And Medicinal Mushrooms''] and [http://thepiratebay.org/torrent/3938897/Ebook_-_Mushrooms_-_The_Mushroom_Cultivator.pdf ''The Mushroom Cultivator''] books by Paul Stamets. Various techniques for cultivating different kinds of mushrooms.
*[http://arkfab.org/?tag=mushroom-farm Arkfab] are developing open-source hardware for growing mushrooms. Watch this space.
==Other==
* [http://www.ted.com/talks/paul_stamets_on_6_ways_mushrooms_can_save_the_world.html Paul Stamets on 6 ways mushrooms can save the world] - TED video - Mycologist Paul Stamets lists 6 ways the mycelium fungus can help save the universe: cleaning polluted soil, making insecticides, treating smallpox and even flu.

Ruminants

2011-05-10T19:40:30Z

Conor: /* Mob-grazing / cell-grazing */

{{Breadcrumb|Food and Agriculture|Animal Husbandry}}
[[File:Goats1.jpg|right|400px]]To convert grasses, broadleaf, and misc vegetation to food we need ruminants, but which ones? This page intends to explore the common ruminants of goats, cattle, sheep and come up with an optimal grazing strategy for given landscapes.

See also: [[Rabbits]]

http://www.caf.wvu.edu/avs/sheep/PDF/Newsletters/NLSPRING05.pdf
This study here suggests that given cattle's strong preference for grass and goat's ability to munch a grass and other vegetation that a mixed grazing system may be optimal. Sheep also can be thrown in the mix particularly if wool is desired. These could all be raised on the same pasture by rotating them through cells (see below).

{{Wanted|Some organic farmers are interested in unconventional, locally-adapted ruminants like buffalo, deer, antelope etc. Some discussion of this would be cool}}

==Goats==
*http://www.kindergoats.com/ - Most people are not aware of a small meat/dairy goat called the Kinder [spoken "Kin-dur".] It was developed over 30 years ago and has gained great success in competing against its larger cousins. This little goat will produce a gallon of milk a day, is much more feed efficient than other breeds, is small so easy to handle (especially the bucks) and is stocky so makes for better meat than the other dairy breeds. Another advantage over other breeds is that the Kinder will breed all year long so you can rotate your milking does and always have plenty of milk. The milk is also higher in protein and butterfat so better for making cheese. This little goat was developed for the small farmstead. The primary lady behind this breed is a long time prepper and has always believed the Kinder will get the job done when other goats fail. For further information, see KinderGoat.com or contact Pat Showalter, primary founder and president of the Kinder Goat Breeder's Association at kinderzed@aol.com.

==Mob-grazing / cell-grazing==
In the wild, herbivores gather together in tight groups for protection from predators. They graze a small area of pasture intensively, then move on to a different spot. By contrast, most farmers stock ruminants sparsely and rarely move them. Natural grazing is intensive; artificial grazing is extensive.

The form of grazing championed by [http://www.savoryinstitute.com/ The Savory Institute] and [http://polyfacefarms.com Polyface Farms] aims to replicate the natural grazing patterns of ruminants. The pasture is divided up into small cells by electric fencing connected to [[batteries]]. This fencing is very light and easy to rearrange. The entire herd is corralled into one cell at a very high density (e.g. 100 cows in a half-acre cell) and allowed to graze there for one day before being moved to the next cell. The livestock do their rounds of the pasture, one cell at a time. Each cell is grazed only a few days a year, and spends the rest of the time regrowing vegetation. (Permaculturalists will notice that this is the same method as the 'chicken tractor'; corralling livestock onto a small area for short periods of time to graze and improve the soil with manure and trampling/scratching.) You must observe how long it takes the vegetation to regrow; return the livestock to the cell when the vegetation has just finished its growth spurt and is entering maturity. 50-100 days is a typical regrowth time.

The animals improve the soil by trampling and cultivating it, and with their manure. And when they mow down the forage, it drops its roots into the soil, where they rot and improve the soil further. The livestock do not just eat plain grass, but a whole range of grasses, groundcovers and weeds. This varied diet results in healthier animals, lower veterinary costs, and tastier meat. The key to the whole system is good soil, which allows forage to grow faster. Apart from the natural soil-improving effect of mob-grazing, amending the soil with [[:Category:Soil and compost|compost]], [[worms]], [[biochar]] and [[Nitrogen Fixation|nitrogen-fixing]] trees will further increase productivity. Ultimately, farming livestock comes down to farming forage. Cell-grazing on optimized soil allows for much higher stocking densities than would otherwise be possible; Polyface Farms stock about one cow per 1.5 acres and The Rodale Institute have one cow per 1.8 acres, compared to one cow per 18 acres for extensive pastures.

*[http://www.savoryinstitute.com/ The Savory Institute]
*[http://polyfacefarms.com Polyface Farms] - they use a complex system in which cows, turkeys, pigs, chickens, hens and [[rabbits]] are rotated around the cells on a precise schedule.
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQPN1O03z8I#t=10m47s TED talk mentioning Polyface Farm]. Note the [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQPN1O03z8I#t=14m22s huge yields].
*[http://vimeo.com/8239427 Lecture by Allan Savory] - long but eye-opening.
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mftwXBAwnBU What mob-grazing looks like]
*A YouTube serach for 'Polyface Farms' or 'Joel Salatin' yields a lot more information. They believe in transparency and in disseminating information about their farming methods to the public.
*http://newfarm.rodaleinstitute.org/features/2006/0606/grazingtall/collins.shtml - An article from The Rodale Institute on their grazing methods. Talks about timing, recovery, and the effects of mob-grazing on carbon and water flows. They graze 400-800 cows/acre (or 1,000-2,000 per hectare).

==Silvopasture==
Silvopasture refers to growing trees in pasture. This provides shade and forage for the animals, and improves the soil.

==Using ponds in pasture==
Reeds on the edge of water grow much faster than land-based forage can - see [[aquaculture]]. You can use this to grow extra forage - and therefore produce more meat - by letting ruminants graze along the edge of a pond. The edge of the pond should be crinkly, not straight, to maximize the edge area in which reeds can grow.

Ruminants

2011-05-10T19:35:02Z

Conor: /* Mob-grazing / cell-grazing */

{{Breadcrumb|Food and Agriculture|Animal Husbandry}}
[[File:Goats1.jpg|right|400px]]To convert grasses, broadleaf, and misc vegetation to food we need ruminants, but which ones? This page intends to explore the common ruminants of goats, cattle, sheep and come up with an optimal grazing strategy for given landscapes.

See also: [[Rabbits]]

http://www.caf.wvu.edu/avs/sheep/PDF/Newsletters/NLSPRING05.pdf
This study here suggests that given cattle's strong preference for grass and goat's ability to munch a grass and other vegetation that a mixed grazing system may be optimal. Sheep also can be thrown in the mix particularly if wool is desired. These could all be raised on the same pasture by rotating them through cells (see below).

{{Wanted|Some organic farmers are interested in unconventional, locally-adapted ruminants like buffalo, deer, antelope etc. Some discussion of this would be cool}}

==Goats==
*http://www.kindergoats.com/ - Most people are not aware of a small meat/dairy goat called the Kinder [spoken "Kin-dur".] It was developed over 30 years ago and has gained great success in competing against its larger cousins. This little goat will produce a gallon of milk a day, is much more feed efficient than other breeds, is small so easy to handle (especially the bucks) and is stocky so makes for better meat than the other dairy breeds. Another advantage over other breeds is that the Kinder will breed all year long so you can rotate your milking does and always have plenty of milk. The milk is also higher in protein and butterfat so better for making cheese. This little goat was developed for the small farmstead. The primary lady behind this breed is a long time prepper and has always believed the Kinder will get the job done when other goats fail. For further information, see KinderGoat.com or contact Pat Showalter, primary founder and president of the Kinder Goat Breeder's Association at kinderzed@aol.com.

==Mob-grazing / cell-grazing==
In the wild, herbivores gather together in tight groups for protection from predators. They graze a small area of pasture intensively, then move on to a different spot. By contrast, most farmers stock ruminants sparsely and rarely move them. Natural grazing is intensive; artificial grazing is extensive.

The form of grazing championed by [http://www.savoryinstitute.com/ The Savory Institute] and [http://polyfacefarms.com Polyface Farms] aims to replicate the natural grazing patterns of ruminants. The pasture is divided up into small cells by electric fencing connected to [[batteries]]. This fencing is very light and easy to rearrange. The entire herd is corralled into one cell at a very high density (e.g. 100 cows in a half-acre cell) and allowed to graze there for one day before being moved to the next cell. The livestock do their rounds of the pasture, one cell at a time. Each cell is grazed only a few days a year, and spends the rest of the time regrowing vegetation. (Permaculturalists will notice that this is the same method as the 'chicken tractor'; corralling livestock onto a small area for short periods of time to graze and improve the soil with manure and trampling/scratching.) You must observe how long it takes the vegetation to regrow; return the livestock to the cell when the vegetation has just finished its growth spurt and is entering maturity. 50-100 days is a typical regrowth time.

The animals improve the soil by trampling and cultivating it, and with their manure. And when they mow down the forage, it drops its roots into the soil, where they rot and improve the soil further. The livestock do not just eat plain grass, but a whole range of grasses, groundcovers and weeds. This varied diet results in healthier animals, lower veterinary costs, and tastier meat. The key to the whole system is good soil, which allows forage to grow faster. Apart from the natural soil-improving effect of mob-grazing, amending the soil with [[:Category:Soil and compost|compost]], [[worms]], [[biochar]] and [[Nitrogen Fixation|nitrogen-fixing]] trees will further increase productivity. Ultimately, farming livestock comes down to farming forage. Cell-grazing on optimized soil allows for much higher stocking densities than would otherwise be possible; Polyface Farms stock about one cow per 1.5 acres, compared to one cow per 18 acres for extensive pastures.

*[http://www.savoryinstitute.com/ The Savory Institute]
*[http://polyfacefarms.com Polyface Farms] - they use a complex system in which cows, turkeys, pigs, chickens, hens and [[rabbits]] are rotated around the cells on a precise schedule.
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQPN1O03z8I#t=10m47s TED talk mentioning Polyface Farm]. Note the [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQPN1O03z8I#t=14m22s huge yields].
*[http://vimeo.com/8239427 Lecture by Allan Savory] - long but eye-opening.
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mftwXBAwnBU What mob-grazing looks like]
*A YouTube serach for 'Polyface Farms' or 'Joel Salatin' yields a lot more information. They believe in transparency and in disseminating information about their farming methods to the public.
*http://newfarm.rodaleinstitute.org/features/2006/0606/grazingtall/collins.shtml - An article from The Rodale Institute on their grazing methods. Talks about timing, recovery, and the effects of mob-grazing on carbon and water flows. They graze 400-800 cows/acre (or 1,000-2,000 per hectare).

==Silvopasture==
Silvopasture refers to growing trees in pasture. This provides shade and forage for the animals, and improves the soil.

==Using ponds in pasture==
Reeds on the edge of water grow much faster than land-based forage can - see [[aquaculture]]. You can use this to grow extra forage - and therefore produce more meat - by letting ruminants graze along the edge of a pond. The edge of the pond should be crinkly, not straight, to maximize the edge area in which reeds can grow.

Juice Press

2011-05-10T00:13:45Z

Conor:

{{Breadcrumb|Food and Agriculture|Food Storage and Processing}}

The GVCS [[Power Cube]] enables all sorts of useful devices for a farm or village setting. One such is a hydraulic juice press:

[[Image:Juice-Press.png]]

Features:

* Hydraulically controlled - up and down
* Removable press plate for cleaning
* Extensions for cylinder rod to enable more or less cheese bags
* Press multiple cheese bags at once
* Spout for easy collection of extracted juices

Global Village Construction Set

2011-05-09T22:18:03Z

Conor:

{{mergefrom|GVCS tools}}
{{mergefrom|Template:GVCS List}}

<div style="text-align: right; direction: ltr; margin-left: 1em;"><flattr
uid="marcin_ose"
title="Global Village Construction Set"
description="The GVCS is a set of 50 tools / technologies for building post-scarcity, resilient communities."
category="text"
language="en_GB"
button="compact"
/></div>'''The GVCS is a [[GVCS tools|set of 50 tools]] / technologies for building post-scarcity, resilient communities.'''

The ideas that guide the GVCS are:

'''Open Source''' - we freely publish our 3d designs, schematics, instructional videos, budgets, and product manuals on our open source wiki and we harness open collaboration with technical contributors.

'''Low-Cost''' - The cost of making or buying our machines are, on average, 8x cheaper than buying from an Industrial Manufacturer, including an average labor cost of $15 hour for a GVCS fabricator.

'''Modular''' - Motors, parts, assemblies, and power units can interchange, where units can be grouped together to diversify the functionality that is achievable from a small set of units.

'''User-Serviceable''' - Design-for-disassembly allows the user to take apart, maintain, and fix tools readily without the need to rely on expensive repairmen.

'''DIY''' - (do-it-yourself) The user gains control of designing, producing, and modifying the GVCS tool set.

'''Closed Loop Manufacturing''' - Metal is an essential component of advanced civilization, and our platform allows for recycling metal into virgin feedstock for producing further GVCS technologies - thereby allowing for cradle-to-cradle manufacturing cycles

'''High Performance''' - Performance standards must match or exceed those of industrial counterparts for the GVCS to be viable.

'''Flexible Fabrication''' - It has been demonstrated that the flexible use of generalized machinery in appropriate-scale production is a viable alternative to centralized production.

'''Distributive Economics''' - We encourage the replication of enterprises that derive from the GVCS platform as a route to truly free enterprise - along the ideals of Jeffersonian democracy.

'''Industrial Efficiency''' - In order to provide a viable choice for a resilient lifestyle, the GVCS platform matches or exceeds productivity standards of industrial counterparts.

==The tools==
{| style="width:100%;" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" border="1" align="left"
! '''[[CEB Press]]'''
! A high-performance Compresssed Earth Block press. Compresssed Earth Block building is the highest quality natural building method. The page [[CEB intro]] contains introductory information on compressed earth blocks
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/compressed-earth-brick-press.png
! <font color=green>COMPLETE AND TESTED!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''[[LifeTrac|Tractor]]'''
! A versatile, 4-wheel drive, hydraulically-driven, skid-steering tractor with 18 to 200 horsepower capacity for agriculture, construction and other utility duties.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/lifetrac.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''[[Microtractor]]'''
! a small, 18 hp version of the full-sized tractor for powering a wide range of implements in agricultural and utility duties
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/microtrac.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''[[Bulldozer]]'''
! A high-traction, heavy earth-moving machine indispensible for building ponds, berms, and other permacultural earthforms, as well as for other tasks such as building roads or clearing land
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/bulldozer.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Power Cube]]'''
! A multipurpose, self-contained, hydraulic power power unit that consisting of an engine coupled to a hydraulic pump
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/powercube.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''CNC Precision Multimachine'''
! A multipurpose, precision CNC machining and metal cutting device for milling, lathing, drilling to make precision parts; includes surface grinding and cold-cut metal sawing
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/multimachine.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Ironworker Machine'''
! A device that can instantly cut steel and punch holes in metal one inch thick
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/ironworker.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''CNC Torch/Router Table'''
! A computer-controlled cutting table for metal where a moving torch head is used to produce precision metal parts in a fraction of the time that it takes to do so manually
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/torch-table.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''3D Printer'''
! An additive manufacturing technology where a three dimensional object is printed by laying down successive layers of material, just like a printer except in 3D
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/3d-printer.png
! <font color=green>COMPLETE AND TESTED!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''3D Scanner'''
! A device that can generate a 3D digital scan from a real-life object, where the file can be used to reproduce the object in 3D with a device such as the 3D printer or CNC Precision Multimachine
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/3d-scanner.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[CNC Circuit Mill]]'''
! A computer-controlled device that can produce electrical circuits by milling and drilling on copper-clad circuit boards
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/circuit-mill.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Industrial Robot]]'''
! A robotic arm which can perform certain human tasks - such as welding or milling – for performing tasks that are not better done by humans
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/robotic-arm.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Laser Cutter]]'''
! An industrial machine that can make precision, finish cuts in a wide array of substrates, such as metal, wood, or plastic
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/laser-cutter.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Open Source Welder]]'''
! A device used to make strong, permanent bonds in metal by melting and fusing the metal
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/mig-welder.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Plasma Cutter]]'''
! A device to cut metal using a plasma torch
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/plasma-cutter.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Induction Furnace]]'''
! An electrical furnace in which the heat is applied by induction heating of metal, providing clean, versatile, compact, energy-efficient, and well-controlled melting compared to flame furnaces
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/induction-furnace.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Metal Rolling'''
! A metal forming process in which metal stock is passed through a pair of rolls to produce a desired shape, such as flat bar, angle, or u-channel
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/metal-rolling-machine.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Rod and Wire Mill'''
! A subset of metal rolling, used to make shafts, rebar, thin rods, and down to wire.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/wire-n-rod-mill.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Press Forge'''
! A device for shaping metal by the application of a shaping die and a continuous pressure or force.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/forge.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Modern Steam Engine]]'''
! A modern engine where an external heat source is used to turn water into steam, and the steam in turn moves reciprocating pistons to provide shaft power
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/steam-engine.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Gasifier burner'''
! A clean and efficient burner that gasifies the material that is being burned prior to combustion
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/gasifier-burner.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Steam Generator]]'''
! A device that generates steam from water that is passed through externally-heated coils
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/steam-generator.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Solar Concentrator'''
! An array of mirrors to concentrate sunlight so it can boil water and drive a steam engine.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/solar-concentrator.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Wind Turbine]]'''
! A device that produces electrical power from wind energy
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/wind-turbine.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Aluminum Extractor from Clay'''
! A device that produces aluminum from clay by dissolving the aluminum from aluminosilicate (clay), and then electrolyzing the resulting compound to form pure aluminum
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/alluminum-extractor.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Pelletizer]]'''
! A device that compresses shredded pieces of biomass or other substances to compact, flowable pellets
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/pelletizer.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Universal Seeder'''
! A tractor-pulled seeder than can plant any seed, from small seeds like clover to large seeds such as potatoes
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-seeder.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Rototiller and Soil Pulverizer'''
! A tractor implement that tills soil with blades via rotary action
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/pulverizer-tiller.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Spader]]'''
! A set of mechanical shovels that prepare soil for planting without causing a hardpan typical of rototiller tilling
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/spader.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Microcombine'''
! A small-scale harvester-thresher for mechanical harvesting of any grain crops, with a cutting swath of about 3 feet in width
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/microcombine.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Universal Rotor]]'''
! A tractor-mounted rotor that can be fitted with a wide array of toolheads, such as string trimmer, posthole digger, tree planting auger, slurry mixer, and many others
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-rotor.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Baler]]'''
! A device that compresses hay and other light and dispersed materials into more compact bales
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/baler.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Hay Rake'''
! A mechanical implement for a tractor that rakes hay or other light materials into windrows or other formations for drying or baling
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hay-rake.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Hay Cutter]]'''
! A device that cuts grass, hay, straw, or other light biomass for haying, baling, or combining
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hay-cutter.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Backhoe'''
! A piece of excavating equipment or digger consisting of a digging bucket on the end of a two-part articulated arm for digging trenches or large holes
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/backhoe.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Chipper/Hammermill'''
! A machine used for reducing wood or other materials into smaller parts, such as chips or shreds
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/chipper-hammermill.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Trencher]]'''
! A piece of construction equipment that uses a cutting wheel for digging trenches, laying pipe, cable, or drainage
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/trencher.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Open Source Automobile'''
! A wheeled motor vehicle for transporting people
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/automobile.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Open Source Truck'''
! A larger version of an automobile with a bed for trasporting loads
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/truck.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Sawmill|Dimensional Sawmill]]'''
! A dimensional sawmill is a circular blade sawmill with 2 blades that is used for producing dimensional lumber in one pass
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/sawmill.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Cement Mixer]]'''
! A device that homogeneously combines cement, aggregate such as sand or gravel, and water to form concrete
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/cement-mixer.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Well-Drilling Rig]]'''
! A device for digging deep water wells
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/well-drilling-rig.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Bakery Oven'''
! A device for heating various forms of dough into breads and other baked goods
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/industrial-bread-oven.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Dairy Milker'''
! A device which harvests milk automatically from milk-producing livestock
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/milking-machine.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Electric Motor/Generator'''
! A device that functions as a motor when energized with a voltage, which can also function as an electrical generator when it is spun.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/electric-motor-generator.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Hydraulic Motors'''
! A mechanical actuator that converts high-pressure fluid flow into rotation
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hydraulic-motor.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Bioplastic Extruder]]'''
! An extruder takes a charge of plastic and extrudes a sheet or other profile of useful form, such as greenhouse glazing or water tubing
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/plastic-extruder.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Universal Power Supply'''
! This is a combination power supply for applications from off-grid power to supplying power to welders, induction furnaces, and plasma cutters.
!http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-power-supply.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Nickel Iron Batteries]]'''
! Long-life batteries that have a track record of lasting 50 or more years
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/nickel-iron-batteries.png
!
|}

===Want to add another tool?===
If you think another technology belongs on the GVCS list, follow this procedure -
#Read the [[OSE Specifications]] and answer the [[OSE Specifications#Questionnaire|questionnaire]].
#If the tool scores highly on the questionnaire and meets most of the OSE specifications, start a thread on the [http://openfarmtech.org/forum/ forum] with a title beginning "Proposed Tool:" (e.g. "Proposed Tool: Washing Machine"). You may be challenged, and will have to convince the community that it is realistic and worth pursuing.
#If the consensus on the forum is in favor of adding the tool to the GVCS, feel free to edit the list above to add the new tool
#By proposing the tool, you take responsibility for it. You become project manager for that tool, and will have to build and prototype it yourself, or else recruit and manage someone who can.

====Proposed tools====
*'''Loader''' - an attachment for the [[LifeTrac]] tractor
*'''Village-scale washing machine''' - powered by the universal rotor
*'''Fridge''' - see the page on [[refrigeration]]
*'''Reversible heat pump''' - for controlling the temperature of homes and greenhouses, refrigerating food and medicine, harnessing solar and geothermal heat
*'''[[Stirling engine]]''' - transforms heat into mechanical energy
*'''[[Spectrometer]]''' and '''computer oscilloscope''' - adding these to the GVCS would form a complete Fab Lab. Most of the work will be done by other open-source groups.
*'''[[Juice Press]] - A juice press powered by the [[Power Cube]].

== Videos ==

See a 2 minute video explainer about the GVCS:

<html>
<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/16106427" width="500" height="310" frameborder="0"></iframe>
</html>

* [[H+ Presentation]]
* Overview presentation at [[Linz Slides]]

See latest presentation on the GVCS (as of June, 2010)
<html>
<object width="400" height="225"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=13020225&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=13020225&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="225"></embed></object><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/13020225">Marcin Jakubowski - part 1</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/eastbaypictures">East Bay Pictures</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>
</html>

Economy creates culture and culture creates politics. The politics we seek are freedom, voluntary contract, and human evolution in harmony with life support systems. Note that resource conflicts and overpopulation are eliminated by design. We are after the creation of new society, one which has learned from the past and moves forward with ancient wisdom and modern technology.

This is a real experiment, and product selection is based on us living with the given technologies. First, it is the development of real, economically significant hardware, product, and engineering. Second, this entire set is being compiled into one setting, and land is being populated with the respective productive agents. The aim is to define a new form of social organization where it is possible to create advanced culture, thriving in abundance and largely autonomous, on the scale of a village, not nation or state.

Here is a talk by [[Marcin Jakubowski]] on the GVCS at the 4th Oekonux Conference. <html>You can download the slides and see a transcript <a href="http://openfarmtech.org/index.php?title=Oekonux_4" target="_blank">here</a>.

First is an introduction by Franz Nahrada, leader of the <a href="http://globalvillages.ning.com/" target="_blank">Globally Integrated Village Environment</a>:<br>

<center> <script src="http://blip.tv/scripts/pokkariPlayer.js?ver=2008010901" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://blip.tv/syndication/write_player?skin=js&posts_id=1960623&source=3&autoplay=true&file_type=flv&player_width=&player_height=" type="text/javascript"></script>
<p id="blip_movie_content_1960623"> <a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentationIntroduction486.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960623(); return false;" rel="enclosure"><img src="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentationIntroduction486.flv.jpg" alt="Video thumbnail. Click to play" title="Click to play" border="0" /></a>
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentationIntroduction486.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960623(); return false;" rel="enclosure">Click To Play</a>
<br>
</center>

Here is the main body of the presentation.<br>

<center>
<script src="http://blip.tv/scripts/pokkariPlayer.js?ver=2008010901" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://blip.tv/syndication/write_player?skin=js&posts_id=1960410&source=3&autoplay=true&file_type=flv&player_width=&player_height=" type="text/javascript"></script>
<p id="blip_movie_content_1960410">
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960410(); return false;" rel="enclosure">
<img src="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv.jpg" alt="Video thumbnail. Click to play" title="Click to play" border="0" /></a>
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960410(); return false;" rel="enclosure">Click To Play</a>

</center>
</html>

Click the arrows on the sides to see other videos.</center></html>

A video presentation on the [[first year at Factor e Farm]] and the GVCS from 2007-2008 [http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-710075551990473235#20m24s here].

And you can also view a GVCS [[UM_Presentation|slide show presentation]] for more information.

=Product Selection Criteria=

See [[OSE Specifications]]

=Enterprise Community Contract=

We are proposing the formation of Global Villages in the form of productive enterprise communities that strive for unprecedented quality of life:
* material abundance
* freedom from bureacracy and unnecessary activity
* total focus on one's true interests

For our particular OSE prototype implementation, we are interested in the following general essence of an ''Enterprise Community Contract'':

* 2 hours of productive activity daily, such that 100% of the community's food, energy, housing, transportation, and technology essentials are produced for subsistence, with surplus production for market
** Agriculture base follows permaculture design, and includes production of water soluble organic fertilizer, orchard, nursery, and crops, as well as certain food processing and value added propositions
** Flexible fabrication produces advanced technologies ''at the cost of materials''
** Cost of living is reduced dramatically, from $20,000/year in the industrialized world, to negligible income requirements, under the assumption of high-tech self-providing
* Each participant undertakes a study program of full stewardship of the community, including:
** Agricultural production capacity
** Technological literacy to operate and maintain flex fab equipment and other machinery
** Numeracy to facilitate design
** Study of the mind and body to expand one's consciousness, skills, and abilities, and to disseminate such human augmentation widely towards eliminating mind control of the masses
* Entry of new people can be negotiated by the new participants providing skills and productive contribution to the community
* Beyond the 2 hour requirement, participants follow a research lifestyle to promote further development of the community or of the greater world

= Enabling Technology - Salient Features of Technology Base =

Without going into details, the main features for the comprehensive technology base are:

* ''Hybridization of power devices'' - decoupling of power source from the working unit in order to produce electrical drive is a formula for increasing integrated efficiency of electromechanical devices such as electric [[vehicle]]s, tools, heavy equipment, etc. For example, the hybrid car decouples the engine from its wheels by using an electrical generator to feed electric wheel motors. Note that this eliminates the clutch, transmission, crank case and its oil, differential, drive train, and other parts, and replaces these items with electric wire from the generator to electric motor. This is a huge efficiency leap, one in fuel efficiency, and two, in eliminating billions of dollars of industry which is outdated today due to the hybridization option. As such, we can talk of complex machines with huge simplification, assuming easy access to infinitely scaleable and controllable, low cost electric motors (these do not exist today). For example, we can envision an agricultural combine where each moving part is powered by its own electric motor - producing a leap in simplification and maintenance of the overall machine - as all belts, pulleys, gears, and other power transmission components driven by a single engine - are all replaced by electric wire. One can point to many examples where such strategy would provide leapfrog advance in device simplicity and maintenance.

* ''Solar turbine power generation including heat storage - look at [[Solar Turbine CHP System]]

* ''Open source fab lab'' - combine and expand the [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/multimachine/Multimachine] with xyz table as in RepRap (http://reprap.org/), and you can envision a robust fabrication device that integrates open source computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM). This device would perform a large variety of machining and fabrication operations, and would be producible at the cost of materials if metal casting is available. When deployed, we are talking of '''''producing any advanced object or device at the cost of materials'''''. ''Would you like to fabricate an electric motor for your personal transport vehicle? Here, I'll email you a file to make on your local village fabber''. In practice, one could conceptualize a single or several Multimachines, with their milling-drilling-lathing functions, surrounding an xyz motion platform with interchangeable heads. These heads could include acetylene torch attachment, plasma cutter, CO2 laser, router, hot wire, or additive heads such as a plastic extruder found in RepRap. This overall fab lab concept could start with a basic machine such as the Multimachine, with computer controls and table added in time. As such, this is a realistic proposition - with supporting open source knowhow with significant advancement already available. This propels civilization to new levels of decentralized material prosperity, and implies significant reduction of resource conflicts, especially if material feedstocks are sourced locally - as in the next point.

Here is an initial Fab Lab design:
[[Image:Fab_Lab.jpg]]

Here is a sample Product Matrix that falls right out of Fab Lab capacities:
[[Image:Product_Matrix.jpg]]

* ''Production of local feedstocks''-
** Wood and structural masonry compressed earth block (CEB) for construction - produced from on-site trees and soils
** [[Compressed Fuel Gas]] for cooking or melting metal - gas produced from trees
** [[Bioplastics]] - such as cellophane from trees
** Biofuels - [[Fuel Alcohol]] in temperate zones, palm oil in tropical zones
** Industrial detritus (waste materials) processing - includes [[Metal Casting and Extrusion]] or [[Plastic Extrusion & Molding]]
** [[Aluminum Extraction From Clays]]

= Sample Scenario =

Imagine a village with buildings of dirt (CEB) with year-round [[Greenhouses|greenhouses]] (sawmill, CEB, bioplastics from local trees), with all facility energy produced by a solar turbine, where people drive hybrid cars with car bodies (bioplastics) made from local weeds, with critical motors and metal structures (aluminum) extracted from on-site clay, which are fueled by alcohol produced on-site, on a wireless network linked to the greater world. That's just a sampling of the technology base. Food, energy, housing sufficiency. There are no poor among us - because we are all evolving human beings and farmer scientists.

= Development process =
[[GVCS Development Template]]

[[Product Cycle]]

[[Image:Engineering_Strategy.jpg]]

= Definition of Open Source Hardware and OSE Specifications =

See the updated entry for OSE Spec [http://openfarmtech.org/index.php?title=OSE_Specifications here].

We like to be clear about the meaning of ''open,'' or ''open source,''' as used in this work for items of physical production. By ''open source,'' we mean documented to the point where one may replicate a given item, ''without even consulting with the developers.'' To us, this embodies the most complete form of documentation possible, where sufficient detail is provided to enable independent replication. This is ''open source'' embodied in ''OSE Specifications''. Other features of OSE Specificationsare:

# Freely downloadable documentation
# DfD, lifetime design
# Simplicity and low cost are of prime importance
# Replaceable components
# Modular Design
# Scaleability
# Localization
## Level 1 - product fabrication or production is local
## Level 2 - material sourcing is local
# Product evolution - phases and versions are pursued
# Concrete Flexible Fabrication mechanism exists for others to purchase the product at reasonable cost
# Open franchising - replicable enterprise design is available, and training exists for entrepreneurs

Thus, these features are meant to promote ''[http://www.inclusivedemocracy.org/dn/vol4/fotopoulos_technology.htm#_ftn2 liberatory technology]'' - open, replicable, essential, optimal, and ecological goods and services for humankind living in harmony with natural life support systems.

= Working Assumptions =

Here is a partial list of assumptions that we are making as we go about the development work of this wiki. These assumptions help one to understand our motivations and approach.
# Civilization are shaped by their resource base. The resource base is what gives people power. By controlling others through an economic or social hierarchy, we can control resources, and thus gain power. Resource conflicts occur because people have not yet learned to manage resources without stealing. Society has not transcended the brute struggle for survival. We remain on the bottom steps of Maslow's pyramid. Transcending resource conflicts by creating abundance, first for hundreds, then for thousands of people, is now possible if knowledge flows openly and advanced technology is applied to produce goods.
# Today, most humans are controlled not by a commercial force (armies) but by information and social engineering that feeds the commerce itself. Understanding means of social control; understanding the mechanics of one's mind, body, and spirit; learning to discern mechanics of mind control and propaganda as they are used in controlling agendas; and applying learnings to meditation, expansion of consciousness, and evolution of one's awareness and powers are all crucial if civilization is to escape the control of commercialism and is to give up its dependence on a centralized, planned economy.
# Said propaganda and conditioning has successfully removed the notion of self-sufficiency as a viable means of livelihood. Most people are afraid of self-sufficiency and consider it a return to the stone age. Most people cannot envision that advanced civilization can be created in small (100-1000 person), self-sufficient, highly skilled communities. Furthermore, most people do not realize that it is possible to educate, skill, and evolve human beings such that an integrated, self-sufficient lifestyle option that promotes advanced civilization on a small scale of human organization is created. It it possible to achieve this level of excellence if people are taught real knowledge and wisdom, as opposed to undergoing global workforce training.
# Education curricula have typically deleted practical applications deliberately, to produce subjects of the global workforce. If education is reinstated then self-sufficiency will emerge as a natural option.
# Self-sufficiency is not an antisocial behavior, but a means to full individual and community accountability for resource conflicts, foul politics, and other corruptions of large-scale endeavors. (review works of Gandhi, Schumacher, Fuller) Self-sufficiency is a means to highest quality life by definition, one is in control of one's destiny when one is self-sufficient. The assumption of self-sufficiency is that its practitioners must be highly skilled, and not products of centralist education.
# By self-sufficient, we mean in full control of providing one's needs. Note that self-sufficiency refers to needs - those things that allow one to survive in absolute health - and not wants. Self-sufficiency does not imply a solo, isolationist endeavor. Self-sufficiency may be accomplished with the help of as many people as it is possible to maintain full accountability, transparency, and sound ethics within that group. This group may be dispersed globally. Historically, sociology of human settlements has shown that this scale of self-sufficiency is a few hundred people. (see E.F. Schumacher; other references)
# The State promotes well-paid incompetence, largely through specialization, such that subjects produce sufficient surplus to pay for their own oppression.
# Education, media, and social engineering programs have subjugated human integrity to passive consumerism, with its related problems (resource conflicts, loss of freedom such as wage slavery). The only way out of this is creating a framework within which humans can prosper: provision of true education, learning of practical skills, stewardship of land, advanced technology for the people, and open access to economically significant know-how.
# Import substitution is reducing dependence on external feedstocks and replacing them with local ones. People in control of their resources control their own destiny. Thus, to localize the essential parts of an economy completely is the prime formula for social stability. Localization should not be considered a struggle, but merely a possibility. It is a possibility that is not recognized because most people, as specialists, lack integrated technical literacy and skills that make a local economy feasible.

= See also =

* [[Product Ecologies]] - illustrates how the different components of the GVCS relate with one another

[[Category: GVCS]]

Global Village Construction Set

2011-05-09T22:17:42Z

Conor:

{{mergefrom|GVCS tools}}
{{mergefrom|Template:GVCS List}}

<div style="text-align: right; direction: ltr; margin-left: 1em;"><flattr
uid="marcin_ose"
title="Global Village Construction Set"
description="The GVCS is a set of 50 tools / technologies for building post-scarcity, resilient communities."
category="text"
language="en_GB"
button="compact"
/></div>'''The GVCS is a [[GVCS tools|set of 50 tools]] / technologies for building post-scarcity, resilient communities.'''

The ideas that guide the GVCS are:

'''Open Source''' - we freely publish our 3d designs, schematics, instructional videos, budgets, and product manuals on our open source wiki and we harness open collaboration with technical contributors.

'''Low-Cost''' - The cost of making or buying our machines are, on average, 8x cheaper than buying from an Industrial Manufacturer, including an average labor cost of $15 hour for a GVCS fabricator.

'''Modular''' - Motors, parts, assemblies, and power units can interchange, where units can be grouped together to diversify the functionality that is achievable from a small set of units.

'''User-Serviceable''' - Design-for-disassembly allows the user to take apart, maintain, and fix tools readily without the need to rely on expensive repairmen.

'''DIY''' - (do-it-yourself) The user gains control of designing, producing, and modifying the GVCS tool set.

'''Closed Loop Manufacturing''' - Metal is an essential component of advanced civilization, and our platform allows for recycling metal into virgin feedstock for producing further GVCS technologies - thereby allowing for cradle-to-cradle manufacturing cycles

'''High Performance''' - Performance standards must match or exceed those of industrial counterparts for the GVCS to be viable.

'''Flexible Fabrication''' - It has been demonstrated that the flexible use of generalized machinery in appropriate-scale production is a viable alternative to centralized production.

'''Distributive Economics''' - We encourage the replication of enterprises that derive from the GVCS platform as a route to truly free enterprise - along the ideals of Jeffersonian democracy.

'''Industrial Efficiency''' - In order to provide a viable choice for a resilient lifestyle, the GVCS platform matches or exceeds productivity standards of industrial counterparts.

==The tools==
{| style="width:100%;" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="0" border="1" align="left"
! '''[[CEB Press]]'''
! A high-performance Compresssed Earth Block press. Compresssed Earth Block building is the highest quality natural building method. The page [[CEB intro]] contains introductory information on compressed earth blocks
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/compressed-earth-brick-press.png
! <font color=green>COMPLETE AND TESTED!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''[[LifeTrac|Tractor]]'''
! A versatile, 4-wheel drive, hydraulically-driven, skid-steering tractor with 18 to 200 horsepower capacity for agriculture, construction and other utility duties.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/lifetrac.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''[[Microtractor]]'''
! a small, 18 hp version of the full-sized tractor for powering a wide range of implements in agricultural and utility duties
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/microtrac.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''[[Bulldozer]]'''
! A high-traction, heavy earth-moving machine indispensible for building ponds, berms, and other permacultural earthforms, as well as for other tasks such as building roads or clearing land
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/bulldozer.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Power Cube]]'''
! A multipurpose, self-contained, hydraulic power power unit that consisting of an engine coupled to a hydraulic pump
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/powercube.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''CNC Precision Multimachine'''
! A multipurpose, precision CNC machining and metal cutting device for milling, lathing, drilling to make precision parts; includes surface grinding and cold-cut metal sawing
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/multimachine.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Ironworker Machine'''
! A device that can instantly cut steel and punch holes in metal one inch thick
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/ironworker.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''CNC Torch/Router Table'''
! A computer-controlled cutting table for metal where a moving torch head is used to produce precision metal parts in a fraction of the time that it takes to do so manually
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/torch-table.png
! <font color=green>PROTOTYPE COMPLETE!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''3D Printer'''
! An additive manufacturing technology where a three dimensional object is printed by laying down successive layers of material, just like a printer except in 3D
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/3d-printer.png
! <font color=green>COMPLETE AND TESTED!</font>

|-align="left"
! '''3D Scanner'''
! A device that can generate a 3D digital scan from a real-life object, where the file can be used to reproduce the object in 3D with a device such as the 3D printer or CNC Precision Multimachine
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/3d-scanner.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[CNC Circuit Mill]]'''
! A computer-controlled device that can produce electrical circuits by milling and drilling on copper-clad circuit boards
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/circuit-mill.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Industrial Robot]]'''
! A robotic arm which can perform certain human tasks - such as welding or milling – for performing tasks that are not better done by humans
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/robotic-arm.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Laser Cutter]]'''
! An industrial machine that can make precision, finish cuts in a wide array of substrates, such as metal, wood, or plastic
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/laser-cutter.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Open Source Welder]]'''
! A device used to make strong, permanent bonds in metal by melting and fusing the metal
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/mig-welder.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Plasma Cutter]]'''
! A device to cut metal using a plasma torch
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/plasma-cutter.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Induction Furnace]]'''
! An electrical furnace in which the heat is applied by induction heating of metal, providing clean, versatile, compact, energy-efficient, and well-controlled melting compared to flame furnaces
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/induction-furnace.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Metal Rolling'''
! A metal forming process in which metal stock is passed through a pair of rolls to produce a desired shape, such as flat bar, angle, or u-channel
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/metal-rolling-machine.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Rod and Wire Mill'''
! A subset of metal rolling, used to make shafts, rebar, thin rods, and down to wire.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/wire-n-rod-mill.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Press Forge'''
! A device for shaping metal by the application of a shaping die and a continuous pressure or force.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/forge.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Modern Steam Engine]]'''
! A modern engine where an external heat source is used to turn water into steam, and the steam in turn moves reciprocating pistons to provide shaft power
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/steam-engine.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Gasifier burner'''
! A clean and efficient burner that gasifies the material that is being burned prior to combustion
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/gasifier-burner.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Steam Generator]]'''
! A device that generates steam from water that is passed through externally-heated coils
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/steam-generator.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Solar Concentrator'''
! An array of mirrors to concentrate sunlight so it can boil water and drive a steam engine.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/solar-concentrator.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''[[Wind Turbine]]'''
! A device that produces electrical power from wind energy
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/wind-turbine.png
! STATUS

|-align="left"
! '''Aluminum Extractor from Clay'''
! A device that produces aluminum from clay by dissolving the aluminum from aluminosilicate (clay), and then electrolyzing the resulting compound to form pure aluminum
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/alluminum-extractor.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Pelletizer]]'''
! A device that compresses shredded pieces of biomass or other substances to compact, flowable pellets
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/pelletizer.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Universal Seeder'''
! A tractor-pulled seeder than can plant any seed, from small seeds like clover to large seeds such as potatoes
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-seeder.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Rototiller and Soil Pulverizer'''
! A tractor implement that tills soil with blades via rotary action
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/pulverizer-tiller.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Spader]]'''
! A set of mechanical shovels that prepare soil for planting without causing a hardpan typical of rototiller tilling
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/spader.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Microcombine'''
! A small-scale harvester-thresher for mechanical harvesting of any grain crops, with a cutting swath of about 3 feet in width
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/microcombine.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Universal Rotor]]'''
! A tractor-mounted rotor that can be fitted with a wide array of toolheads, such as string trimmer, posthole digger, tree planting auger, slurry mixer, and many others
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-rotor.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Baler]]'''
! A device that compresses hay and other light and dispersed materials into more compact bales
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/baler.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Hay Rake'''
! A mechanical implement for a tractor that rakes hay or other light materials into windrows or other formations for drying or baling
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hay-rake.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Hay Cutter]]'''
! A device that cuts grass, hay, straw, or other light biomass for haying, baling, or combining
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hay-cutter.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Backhoe'''
! A piece of excavating equipment or digger consisting of a digging bucket on the end of a two-part articulated arm for digging trenches or large holes
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/backhoe.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Chipper/Hammermill'''
! A machine used for reducing wood or other materials into smaller parts, such as chips or shreds
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/chipper-hammermill.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Trencher]]'''
! A piece of construction equipment that uses a cutting wheel for digging trenches, laying pipe, cable, or drainage
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/trencher.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Open Source Automobile'''
! A wheeled motor vehicle for transporting people
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/automobile.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Open Source Truck'''
! A larger version of an automobile with a bed for trasporting loads
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/truck.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Sawmill|Dimensional Sawmill]]'''
! A dimensional sawmill is a circular blade sawmill with 2 blades that is used for producing dimensional lumber in one pass
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/sawmill.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Cement Mixer]]'''
! A device that homogeneously combines cement, aggregate such as sand or gravel, and water to form concrete
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/cement-mixer.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Well-Drilling Rig]]'''
! A device for digging deep water wells
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/well-drilling-rig.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Bakery Oven'''
! A device for heating various forms of dough into breads and other baked goods
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/industrial-bread-oven.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Dairy Milker'''
! A device which harvests milk automatically from milk-producing livestock
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/milking-machine.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Electric Motor/Generator'''
! A device that functions as a motor when energized with a voltage, which can also function as an electrical generator when it is spun.
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/electric-motor-generator.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Hydraulic Motors'''
! A mechanical actuator that converts high-pressure fluid flow into rotation
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/hydraulic-motor.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Bioplastic Extruder]]'''
! An extruder takes a charge of plastic and extrudes a sheet or other profile of useful form, such as greenhouse glazing or water tubing
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/plastic-extruder.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''Universal Power Supply'''
! This is a combination power supply for applications from off-grid power to supplying power to welders, induction furnaces, and plasma cutters.
!http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/universal-power-supply.png
!

|-align="left"
! '''[[Nickel Iron Batteries]]'''
! Long-life batteries that have a track record of lasting 50 or more years
! http://openfarmtech.org/temp-gvcs-icons/nickel-iron-batteries.png
!
|}

===Want to add another tool?===
If you think another technology belongs on the GVCS list, follow this procedure -
#Read the [[OSE Specifications]] and answer the [[OSE Specifications#Questionnaire|questionnaire]].
#If the tool scores highly on the questionnarie and meets most of the OSE specifications, start a thread on the [http://openfarmtech.org/forum/ forum] with a title beginning "Proposed Tool:" (e.g. "Proposed Tool: Washing Machine"). You may be challenged, and will have to convince the community that it is realistic and worth pursuing.
#If the consensus on the forum is in favor of adding the tool to the GVCS, feel free to edit the list above to add the new tool
#By proposing the tool, you take responsibility for it. You become project manager for that tool, and will have to build and prototype it yourself, or else recruit and manage someone who can.

====Proposed tools====
*'''Loader''' - an attachment for the [[LifeTrac]] tractor
*'''Village-scale washing machine''' - powered by the universal rotor
*'''Fridge''' - see the page on [[refrigeration]]
*'''Reversible heat pump''' - for controlling the temperature of homes and greenhouses, refrigerating food and medicine, harnessing solar and geothermal heat
*'''[[Stirling engine]]''' - transforms heat into mechanical energy
*'''[[Spectrometer]]''' and '''computer oscilloscope''' - adding these to the GVCS would form a complete Fab Lab. Most of the work will be done by other open-source groups.
*'''[[Juice Press]] - A juice press powered by the [[Power Cube]].

== Videos ==

See a 2 minute video explainer about the GVCS:

<html>
<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/16106427" width="500" height="310" frameborder="0"></iframe>
</html>

* [[H+ Presentation]]
* Overview presentation at [[Linz Slides]]

See latest presentation on the GVCS (as of June, 2010)
<html>
<object width="400" height="225"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=13020225&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=13020225&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="225"></embed></object><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/13020225">Marcin Jakubowski - part 1</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/eastbaypictures">East Bay Pictures</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>
</html>

Economy creates culture and culture creates politics. The politics we seek are freedom, voluntary contract, and human evolution in harmony with life support systems. Note that resource conflicts and overpopulation are eliminated by design. We are after the creation of new society, one which has learned from the past and moves forward with ancient wisdom and modern technology.

This is a real experiment, and product selection is based on us living with the given technologies. First, it is the development of real, economically significant hardware, product, and engineering. Second, this entire set is being compiled into one setting, and land is being populated with the respective productive agents. The aim is to define a new form of social organization where it is possible to create advanced culture, thriving in abundance and largely autonomous, on the scale of a village, not nation or state.

Here is a talk by [[Marcin Jakubowski]] on the GVCS at the 4th Oekonux Conference. <html>You can download the slides and see a transcript <a href="http://openfarmtech.org/index.php?title=Oekonux_4" target="_blank">here</a>.

First is an introduction by Franz Nahrada, leader of the <a href="http://globalvillages.ning.com/" target="_blank">Globally Integrated Village Environment</a>:<br>

<center> <script src="http://blip.tv/scripts/pokkariPlayer.js?ver=2008010901" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://blip.tv/syndication/write_player?skin=js&posts_id=1960623&source=3&autoplay=true&file_type=flv&player_width=&player_height=" type="text/javascript"></script>
<p id="blip_movie_content_1960623"> <a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentationIntroduction486.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960623(); return false;" rel="enclosure"><img src="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentationIntroduction486.flv.jpg" alt="Video thumbnail. Click to play" title="Click to play" border="0" /></a>
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentationIntroduction486.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960623(); return false;" rel="enclosure">Click To Play</a>
<br>
</center>

Here is the main body of the presentation.<br>

<center>
<script src="http://blip.tv/scripts/pokkariPlayer.js?ver=2008010901" type="text/javascript"></script> <script src="http://blip.tv/syndication/write_player?skin=js&posts_id=1960410&source=3&autoplay=true&file_type=flv&player_width=&player_height=" type="text/javascript"></script>
<p id="blip_movie_content_1960410">
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960410(); return false;" rel="enclosure">
<img src="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv.jpg" alt="Video thumbnail. Click to play" title="Click to play" border="0" /></a>
<a href="http://blip.tv/file/get/Marcin_ose-Oekonux4ConferencePresentation778.flv" onclick="play_blip_movie_1960410(); return false;" rel="enclosure">Click To Play</a>

</center>
</html>

Click the arrows on the sides to see other videos.</center></html>

A video presentation on the [[first year at Factor e Farm]] and the GVCS from 2007-2008 [http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-710075551990473235#20m24s here].

And you can also view a GVCS [[UM_Presentation|slide show presentation]] for more information.

=Product Selection Criteria=

See [[OSE Specifications]]

=Enterprise Community Contract=

We are proposing the formation of Global Villages in the form of productive enterprise communities that strive for unprecedented quality of life:
* material abundance
* freedom from bureacracy and unnecessary activity
* total focus on one's true interests

For our particular OSE prototype implementation, we are interested in the following general essence of an ''Enterprise Community Contract'':

* 2 hours of productive activity daily, such that 100% of the community's food, energy, housing, transportation, and technology essentials are produced for subsistence, with surplus production for market
** Agriculture base follows permaculture design, and includes production of water soluble organic fertilizer, orchard, nursery, and crops, as well as certain food processing and value added propositions
** Flexible fabrication produces advanced technologies ''at the cost of materials''
** Cost of living is reduced dramatically, from $20,000/year in the industrialized world, to negligible income requirements, under the assumption of high-tech self-providing
* Each participant undertakes a study program of full stewardship of the community, including:
** Agricultural production capacity
** Technological literacy to operate and maintain flex fab equipment and other machinery
** Numeracy to facilitate design
** Study of the mind and body to expand one's consciousness, skills, and abilities, and to disseminate such human augmentation widely towards eliminating mind control of the masses
* Entry of new people can be negotiated by the new participants providing skills and productive contribution to the community
* Beyond the 2 hour requirement, participants follow a research lifestyle to promote further development of the community or of the greater world

= Enabling Technology - Salient Features of Technology Base =

Without going into details, the main features for the comprehensive technology base are:

* ''Hybridization of power devices'' - decoupling of power source from the working unit in order to produce electrical drive is a formula for increasing integrated efficiency of electromechanical devices such as electric [[vehicle]]s, tools, heavy equipment, etc. For example, the hybrid car decouples the engine from its wheels by using an electrical generator to feed electric wheel motors. Note that this eliminates the clutch, transmission, crank case and its oil, differential, drive train, and other parts, and replaces these items with electric wire from the generator to electric motor. This is a huge efficiency leap, one in fuel efficiency, and two, in eliminating billions of dollars of industry which is outdated today due to the hybridization option. As such, we can talk of complex machines with huge simplification, assuming easy access to infinitely scaleable and controllable, low cost electric motors (these do not exist today). For example, we can envision an agricultural combine where each moving part is powered by its own electric motor - producing a leap in simplification and maintenance of the overall machine - as all belts, pulleys, gears, and other power transmission components driven by a single engine - are all replaced by electric wire. One can point to many examples where such strategy would provide leapfrog advance in device simplicity and maintenance.

* ''Solar turbine power generation including heat storage - look at [[Solar Turbine CHP System]]

* ''Open source fab lab'' - combine and expand the [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/multimachine/Multimachine] with xyz table as in RepRap (http://reprap.org/), and you can envision a robust fabrication device that integrates open source computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM). This device would perform a large variety of machining and fabrication operations, and would be producible at the cost of materials if metal casting is available. When deployed, we are talking of '''''producing any advanced object or device at the cost of materials'''''. ''Would you like to fabricate an electric motor for your personal transport vehicle? Here, I'll email you a file to make on your local village fabber''. In practice, one could conceptualize a single or several Multimachines, with their milling-drilling-lathing functions, surrounding an xyz motion platform with interchangeable heads. These heads could include acetylene torch attachment, plasma cutter, CO2 laser, router, hot wire, or additive heads such as a plastic extruder found in RepRap. This overall fab lab concept could start with a basic machine such as the Multimachine, with computer controls and table added in time. As such, this is a realistic proposition - with supporting open source knowhow with significant advancement already available. This propels civilization to new levels of decentralized material prosperity, and implies significant reduction of resource conflicts, especially if material feedstocks are sourced locally - as in the next point.

Here is an initial Fab Lab design:
[[Image:Fab_Lab.jpg]]

Here is a sample Product Matrix that falls right out of Fab Lab capacities:
[[Image:Product_Matrix.jpg]]

* ''Production of local feedstocks''-
** Wood and structural masonry compressed earth block (CEB) for construction - produced from on-site trees and soils
** [[Compressed Fuel Gas]] for cooking or melting metal - gas produced from trees
** [[Bioplastics]] - such as cellophane from trees
** Biofuels - [[Fuel Alcohol]] in temperate zones, palm oil in tropical zones
** Industrial detritus (waste materials) processing - includes [[Metal Casting and Extrusion]] or [[Plastic Extrusion & Molding]]
** [[Aluminum Extraction From Clays]]

= Sample Scenario =

Imagine a village with buildings of dirt (CEB) with year-round [[Greenhouses|greenhouses]] (sawmill, CEB, bioplastics from local trees), with all facility energy produced by a solar turbine, where people drive hybrid cars with car bodies (bioplastics) made from local weeds, with critical motors and metal structures (aluminum) extracted from on-site clay, which are fueled by alcohol produced on-site, on a wireless network linked to the greater world. That's just a sampling of the technology base. Food, energy, housing sufficiency. There are no poor among us - because we are all evolving human beings and farmer scientists.

= Development process =
[[GVCS Development Template]]

[[Product Cycle]]

[[Image:Engineering_Strategy.jpg]]

= Definition of Open Source Hardware and OSE Specifications =

See the updated entry for OSE Spec [http://openfarmtech.org/index.php?title=OSE_Specifications here].

We like to be clear about the meaning of ''open,'' or ''open source,''' as used in this work for items of physical production. By ''open source,'' we mean documented to the point where one may replicate a given item, ''without even consulting with the developers.'' To us, this embodies the most complete form of documentation possible, where sufficient detail is provided to enable independent replication. This is ''open source'' embodied in ''OSE Specifications''. Other features of OSE Specificationsare:

# Freely downloadable documentation
# DfD, lifetime design
# Simplicity and low cost are of prime importance
# Replaceable components
# Modular Design
# Scaleability
# Localization
## Level 1 - product fabrication or production is local
## Level 2 - material sourcing is local
# Product evolution - phases and versions are pursued
# Concrete Flexible Fabrication mechanism exists for others to purchase the product at reasonable cost
# Open franchising - replicable enterprise design is available, and training exists for entrepreneurs

Thus, these features are meant to promote ''[http://www.inclusivedemocracy.org/dn/vol4/fotopoulos_technology.htm#_ftn2 liberatory technology]'' - open, replicable, essential, optimal, and ecological goods and services for humankind living in harmony with natural life support systems.

= Working Assumptions =

Here is a partial list of assumptions that we are making as we go about the development work of this wiki. These assumptions help one to understand our motivations and approach.
# Civilization are shaped by their resource base. The resource base is what gives people power. By controlling others through an economic or social hierarchy, we can control resources, and thus gain power. Resource conflicts occur because people have not yet learned to manage resources without stealing. Society has not transcended the brute struggle for survival. We remain on the bottom steps of Maslow's pyramid. Transcending resource conflicts by creating abundance, first for hundreds, then for thousands of people, is now possible if knowledge flows openly and advanced technology is applied to produce goods.
# Today, most humans are controlled not by a commercial force (armies) but by information and social engineering that feeds the commerce itself. Understanding means of social control; understanding the mechanics of one's mind, body, and spirit; learning to discern mechanics of mind control and propaganda as they are used in controlling agendas; and applying learnings to meditation, expansion of consciousness, and evolution of one's awareness and powers are all crucial if civilization is to escape the control of commercialism and is to give up its dependence on a centralized, planned economy.
# Said propaganda and conditioning has successfully removed the notion of self-sufficiency as a viable means of livelihood. Most people are afraid of self-sufficiency and consider it a return to the stone age. Most people cannot envision that advanced civilization can be created in small (100-1000 person), self-sufficient, highly skilled communities. Furthermore, most people do not realize that it is possible to educate, skill, and evolve human beings such that an integrated, self-sufficient lifestyle option that promotes advanced civilization on a small scale of human organization is created. It it possible to achieve this level of excellence if people are taught real knowledge and wisdom, as opposed to undergoing global workforce training.
# Education curricula have typically deleted practical applications deliberately, to produce subjects of the global workforce. If education is reinstated then self-sufficiency will emerge as a natural option.
# Self-sufficiency is not an antisocial behavior, but a means to full individual and community accountability for resource conflicts, foul politics, and other corruptions of large-scale endeavors. (review works of Gandhi, Schumacher, Fuller) Self-sufficiency is a means to highest quality life by definition, one is in control of one's destiny when one is self-sufficient. The assumption of self-sufficiency is that its practitioners must be highly skilled, and not products of centralist education.
# By self-sufficient, we mean in full control of providing one's needs. Note that self-sufficiency refers to needs - those things that allow one to survive in absolute health - and not wants. Self-sufficiency does not imply a solo, isolationist endeavor. Self-sufficiency may be accomplished with the help of as many people as it is possible to maintain full accountability, transparency, and sound ethics within that group. This group may be dispersed globally. Historically, sociology of human settlements has shown that this scale of self-sufficiency is a few hundred people. (see E.F. Schumacher; other references)
# The State promotes well-paid incompetence, largely through specialization, such that subjects produce sufficient surplus to pay for their own oppression.
# Education, media, and social engineering programs have subjugated human integrity to passive consumerism, with its related problems (resource conflicts, loss of freedom such as wage slavery). The only way out of this is creating a framework within which humans can prosper: provision of true education, learning of practical skills, stewardship of land, advanced technology for the people, and open access to economically significant know-how.
# Import substitution is reducing dependence on external feedstocks and replacing them with local ones. People in control of their resources control their own destiny. Thus, to localize the essential parts of an economy completely is the prime formula for social stability. Localization should not be considered a struggle, but merely a possibility. It is a possibility that is not recognized because most people, as specialists, lack integrated technical literacy and skills that make a local economy feasible.

= See also =

* [[Product Ecologies]] - illustrates how the different components of the GVCS relate with one another

[[Category: GVCS]]

Talk:OSE Specifications

2011-05-09T22:07:17Z

Conor: Put old version of the page on the talk page for reference

I would think "Open Source Ecology" would be about having the Sources of Ecology Open.

Not just the 'virtual' Sources such as genetics (DNA) or plans and knowledge about how to raise organisms, what about the [[Physical Sources]]?

Will any part of OSE ever be about Opening the [[Material Inputs]]?

Do we care about insuring access to instances of the designs that have been on the planet for millions of years, or about access to instances of the new designs that are created and opened here?

What if I travel to the OpenFarmTech land in Missouri? Can I rent land or tools? Can I become a part owner? How will such a facility grow?

We need investors. If those investors are future consumers, they will expect product instead of profit.

Sincerely, -- [[User:AGNUcius|AGNUcius]] 09:55, 25 February 2008 (PST)

=Old version=

Before you read further, please see the [[OSE Mission]].

OSE Specifications are a way of identifying tools that will allow people to create abundant local economic production as a basis for community prosperity in an interconnected world. The OSE Specifications are a list of qualities; technologies that have these qualities are technologies that allow people to use their local resource-base to create abundance. Material abundance leaves people with free time and energy to fuel cultural and scientific progress.

These values are to be embodied in the development process, in the recruitment of volunteers, in OSE's organizational structure and in all operations, public and private:

{{Wanted|Shorten this list and simplify it. A lot of these just repeat other values (In work, see [[Requirements Analysis]]) [[User:DanielRavenNest|DanielRavenNest]] 06:42, 5 May 2011 (PDT)}}

#'''Open''' - Open Source Ecology endorses the open-source culture of sharing and collaborative development. This applies to all components of the project: technical design, organizational structure, finances, business and marketing methods etc. Everything we know, you know. We encourage members to collaborate openly, in a culture of respect. We are aiming to create collaboration structures (such as wikis and web forums) to facilitate this open flow of information. We encourage everybody on the development team to be transparent about their work, and to ask openly for collaborative assistance. We encourage everybody to give information away for free – as the cost of sharing information is zero.<br>It is imperative that the technical details of the [[Global Village Construction Set]] tools be published openly on the Internet, with no restrictions, patents or trade secrets. Bills of materials, 3D designs, schematics, build instructions, and product manuals are to be published on our wiki. This gives the user the power to design, produce, and modify the [[GVCS]] tools according to his or her wishes. The same person is therefore consumer, producer and designer. This leads to robust, tailor-made goods. This allows a global team of developers to improve the tools. <br>Business models should be published openly so that others can replicate any enterprise. We believe it is best to publish plans early and often. This exposes our errors and dead ends to the scrutiny of our online community and leads to faster, better design. We value sharing and collaborative development over greed and exclusiveness. This type of culture promotes co-operation, as opposed to fear-based aggressiveness.
#'''Distributive Economics''' – We believe in decentralizing economic activity. We aim to decentralize the production of food through [[:Category:Food and Agriculture|local food systems]], and decentralize the production of technology by combining local [[Digital Fabrication|digital fabrication]] with global collaborative design to create what we call '[[Industry 2.0]]'.<br>In distributive economics, information should be free because the cost of distributing information is negligible. However, atoms or physical objects are not 'free' in the same sense, as significant energy is required to produce and distribute physical goods.
#'''Low-Cost''' - The cost of buying or making our machines are, on average, 5-10x cheaper than buying from an industrial manufacturer- including an average labor cost of $25 hour for a GVCS fabricator. Commentary:
#'''Modular''' – Components of the GVCS function as interchangeable modules. Motors, parts, assemblies, and power units can interchange, where units can grouped together to diversify the functionality that is achievable from a small set of units. To see how the different parts fit together - see [[Product Ecologies]].
#'''Closed-Loop Material Cycles''' – As in nature, nothing goes to waste, but instead becomes an input for another process. Our project relies on recycling metal into virgin feedstock for producing further GVCS technologies - thereby allowing for cradle-to-cradle manufacturing cycles.
{{Wanted|Resolve the clash between "High Performance" and "Sufficiency"}}
#'''High Performance''' - Performance standards must match or exceed those of industrial counterparts for the GVCS to provide a comparable or better standard of living.
#'''Sufficiency''' – We understand that we need to reach a certain level of performance, and that is sufficient. This is distinct from continuous addition of frivolous bells and whistles.

#'''Ecological Design''' - Our products promote a harmonious co-existence between nature and humans. The entire process and technology must fit the criteria for being environmentally friendly and regenerative.
#'''Adaptability'''– The systems that we are designing are designed to be adaptable. This arises from the ability to modify, scale and replicate the components and systems to meet requirement of constantly changing conditions. The tools are useful anywhere - from the 1st to the 4th worlds, from the city to the country, from high technology to low technology applications, at different scales of operation.
#'''Systems Design''' – Our designs consider the whole system of life support, in terms of hoew the different machines and services interface with one another. Different machines can functions as modules in a wide array of integrated systems. We do not choose technologies with peak point performance, but with peak systems performance as they fit into a resilient community integrated with its natural life support systems. Part of the systems design is synergy – in that the GVCS is intended to attain its maximum potential when all of its components are working with one another.
#'''Lifetime Design''' – Our products are designed for a lifetime of use. Open-source design, where the designer is the user, has no interest in planning obsolescence. Design-for-disassembly, simplicity, transparency, and open-source documentation allows the user to understand, take apart, modify, service, maintain, and fix tools without relying on expensive repairmen.
#'''Substitutability''' – Our products substitute common resources for less common resources.
#'''Flexibility''' – Our tools can be used flexibly in a wide range of applications. Our digital fabrication equipment can flexibly produce a huge variety of products, in contrast with a factory robot that can only produce the same thing over and over again. Our means to [[flexible fabrication]] is the [[open source fab lab]].
#'''Simplicity''' - We design for simplicity without sacrificing performance standards
#'''Complete Economy''' – The work of OSE is intended to be a workable blueprint for a complete economy. Our designs are geared for a maker lifestyle on the part of community members. This is also known as a neo-subsistence lifestyle – where communities can provide all the requirements of a complete economy, such that trade is only an option, not a necessity.
#'''Scalability and holography''' – The GVCS tools are designed to be scalable to different sizes of operations, from individual households to agglomerations of villages (cities). The design should be holographic, in that each unit of operation should be self-contained (complete) and resilient. With modern technology, human organization can be scaled down to the village scale – empowered by open access to information.<br>We look at the village scale of about 200 people as the optimal scale of human organization for several reasons. First, it's a historically proven number. Second, it follows [[Dunbar's Number]] to allow for persistent and meaningful social interaction. Third, it is easily manageable from an organizational point of view without requiring bureaucratic overhead. Fourth, it is sufficiently large to allow specialization via division of labor. Fifth, it allows for a walking- or biking-distance community. Sixth, it is a basic building block - where larger communities may be designed as units of this small scale for the highest possible resilience - as opposed to organization on a larger scale. Seventh, it has been pointed out by the industrial economist, E. F. Schumacher, in his seminal book, [[Small is Beautiful]], that human organization simply breaks down after it reaches a certain scale.
#'''Technological Recursion''' – The flexible fabrication technology also allows producers to produce more complex machines and parts. This allows a local community to, eventually, attain the capacity to produce any technology known to humankind.
#'''Local Resources''' – The GVCS is fueled by local resources, such as water, sunlight, rock and soil. Via technological recursion, these are transformed into useful technology.
#'''Community''' – The GVCS toolset is designed to promote a just, equitable, and life-giving social contract for a community. The tools are designed to be used by a village-scale community, not by individuals. Within this village, there is a social contract based on division of labor, so that the work of each member contributes to the well-being of the whole community. The role of the individual is lifelong learning, stewardship of land and resources and nonviolence. This co-operative arrangement, along with increased freedom from material constraints, promotes connection between people. This reconnection also includes reconnection to one's true needs, to one's family, and to the global family of all living creatures.
#'''Proven Techniques''' – We focus on time-proven concepts, techniques, and technologies. All are principles are generally regarded as common, historical knowledge or wisdom learned through eons of civilization.
#'''Cross-Disciplinary Integration''' – We provide cutting edge practice in so far as they are integrations of knowledge from many fields and disciplines. We value unabashed boundary-crossing and cross-fertilization, drawing from as many cultures, regions, and time periods as possible.
#'''New Economics''' – One aspect of OSE is that it allows for the creation of a resource based economy, where true wealth is based on the value of natural, primarily local resources, where wealth is created from adding value to natural resources by transforming them to human-usable form.
#'''Replicability''' – OSE work is intended to be replicable, self-replicating, and viral. The open-source nature, low-cost, and simplicity of our designs are key to this.
#'''Meaning''' – Technology, when used appropriately, is intended to reconnect one to meaning, and to natural ecosystems. Reconnection to nature can occur from constant interplay between humans and nature, as natural resources are stewarded responsibly to meet human needs by benign processes.
#'''Appropriate Automation''' – We favor automation of repetitive, difficult, dangerous or unrewarding tasks.
#'''Long Term Approach''' – OSE is seeking long-term solutions on the 100 year scale into the future, not band-aids on superficial issues. We are looking at issues for the long haul, with lasting peace and stability for humanity as the goal.
#'''Networked model communities''' – We are interested in creating a network of like-minded communities that follow OSE values, so that cultural exchange can happen between different communities. This is the [[1000 Global Villages]] concept - 1000 villages that serve as model communities and influence the rest of the world in a positive way.
#'''Land and Resource Stewardship''' – Each OSE facility functions as a land steward. Land is not for sale, but is preserved for ever as a permanent site of human heritage and cultural growth. Resources are stewarded so that they improve in quality with time, as opposed to becoming depleted.
#'''Iconoclastic Innovation and Transformation''' – OSE favors iconoclastic approaches which address issues at the root, not symptoms – towards addressing pressing world issues (war, poverty, corruption, distribution of wealth, disease, etc.). We are not looking for mass-culture compromises swayed by political or special interests, but for authentic solutions based on virtues common to all humankind.
#'''Absolute Creative Approaches''' - We do not promote destroying anything, just creating a better solution that makes the old paradigm obsolete. We have no use for the concept of "enemy". We do not hate any group or politic, because we are all in this together. We believe in positive psychology, inspiration, and bringing out the virtues in people – by appealing to their absolute creative, transcendent potential for solutions. We do not endorse fear- or punishment-based motivation tactics.
#'''Realism''' - We favor a realistic approach that can be implemented today, not futuristic dreaming.
#'''Abundance'''- We believe that there are abundant resources – minerals, energy, food, water etc. – for everyone, if we use them efficiently and intelligently. We promote social and technological arrangements that lead to abundance, allowing people free time to pursue their happiness

=Methods and Strategic Approaches=

#'''Distributive Economics''' - We recognize the challenges of sharing information openly – in that someone else can 'steal' an idea and capitalize on it. We address this issue by encouraging people to publish openly, so that prior art makes information accessible to all, and therefore, making information un-patentable and therefore incapable of being appropriated. In order to capture value, we encourage humans to organize around information resource commons, while building in a physical, productive infrastructure to convert information into the substance of modern-day living via benign, industrial processes
#'''Notes on Patents'''. These make sense only in a world based on scarcity. We encourage each community that adopts OSE principles to build complete, open source, economic productivity – where true wealth can be generated easily. In this case, what is the need for patents? If a community can provide all of its needs - then we enter into the concept of sufficiency. State-of-art point technologies that optimize one feature of performance are not necessarily useful for an ecological tool set. We are interested more in overall, or ecological, performance - as opposed to point performance.
#'''Creative Approach''' - There is a number of movements that cater to fears regarding the end of the world or other comprehensive collapse scenarios. Our approach is intended to empower people from a perspective of what is a-priori favorable and benign - whether or not any cataclysm is on the horizon. IT is important to underscore that we focus on positive psychology and transcendence, which we favor over an approach based on fear, because fear-based response is not as likely to create long-lasting solutions.
#'''Modular, lifetime design''' – The core of lifetime design is design-for-disassembly and modularity. Design-for-disassembly is synonymous with user ability to 'look under the hood' of a certain device. Modules are interchangeable units of functionality.
#'''Closed Loop Manufacturing''' – OSE endorses closed loop eco-industry, where waste does not exist as the waste is turned into feedstock for other processes.

=Components of OSE Specifications=
{{Wanted|Get rid of this list by merging it into the other lists above}}
OSE Specifications cover a number of aspects of economically-significant production, covering the development and production aspects:

*Economic significance
*Open documentation
*Distributive economic nature
*Transformative nature of enterprise
*Systems design
*Transparency and participatory nature of production model and development process
*Creation of post-scarcity levels of production
*Simplicity and low cost
*Lifetime, modular design; design-for-disassembly; design-for-scalability
*Localization of material sourcing and of production
*Ecological qualities
*Economic Feasibility and Replicability
**Minimization of waste, overhead, and bureaucracy
**Product Evolution
**Fabrication Facilities
**Open Franchising or Open Business Model
**Startup Assistance

* Resources (e.g. land) needed for the tool should be locally available
* The need the tool meets should be essential to a large market. No specialist goods or luxuries.
* Provision of a robust village economy and sufficient surplus for further developments
* Generative nature of the product, thus promoting self-replication of the village
* The GVCS tools together should cover every essential service for a village.
* Viability of a community on a village scale, perhaps 100 people, but as few as 2 or as many as sustained by the land base

==Economic Significance==

Economic significance refers to the overall economic importance of a given product or service. The assumption here that economic significance is defined on the basis of relevance for meeting the material needs of humans. For example, fuels and tractors constitute multibillion dollar global markets, and are thus economically significant. On the other hand, plain discussion may have little economic significance, if is not more than hot air.

==Open Documentation==

===Readily accessible or downloadble documentation and design===

Distributed information in the computer age is made most readily accessible if it is available for immediate download from the internet. If material is available in electronic format, it may be manipulated or utilized readily with software tools. For example, digital designs may be edited or used immediately in CAD or CAM. If CAM formats are available, then data at one point in space can be readily transformed into a physical object at another point in space, in the presence of digital fabrication capacities.

===Design Drawings===

This is a start towards replicability.

===Bill of Materials (BOM)===
{{Wanted|Move this section to [[Product Template]]}}
Next to design drawing, the BOM is the second most important towards replicability. This is a detailed listing of all parts used, sourcing, and prices. Relevant comments should be made alongside the BOM, such as, quality or reliability of certain vendors, their quality of service, and any other useful comments. The only difficulty with a BOM may be that if the audience is global, sourcing may not be readily available or shipping may be prohibitive, so local substitution of parts must be made. If a BOM is available, then the building of a specific product can commence immediately: there is no guessing which parts would work, or which supplier is reliable. At best, the process for one-off individual production can be as follows:
#an individual decides that they need a certain product
#they look that product up on an online repository of open source products, download fabrication procedures and parts lists
#purchase parts locally all on the same day if they are located in an urban area where many suppliers are available
#and start building a certain project.
All these steps can potentially be completed in one day when the BOM is available. Open design drawings and plans are only one aspect, but the critical point to enabling immediate production is the availability of BOMs, as the last step prior to actual fabrication.

A possibility then emerges that a large number of people can stop buying goods from who-knows-where and begin to fabricate them locally. This is feasibile on the individual level for anyone equipped with a robust Fab Lab, or when small groups (a few to a dozen people) get together to purchase low-cost, open source, digital fabrication equipment. These people could operate out of backyard garages, rented workshop spaces, co-working facilities, or other community supported manufacturing operations. The types of products that yield themselves particularly to this type of production are those items that fall beyond the class of disposable goods, and are more or less long-use items. These items include electronics, mechanized tools, semi-heavy machinery, green vehicles, renewable energy systems, among others.

====Tools====
[[CAD by Mariano Alvira]] and [[SKDB]] are two different tools that can improve and automate different aspects of handling a BOM.

===Free information===

If information is free, it is most easily accessible.

==Distributive Economics==

Distributive economics refer to economic models that tend to distribute economic power as opposed to monopolizing this power.

==Transformative Nature of Enterprise==

We are interested in transformative economics, or those economics which tend towards community and global resilience, while having qualities that, proactively, move the world away from: concentration of societal power; perennial warfare; loss of meaning; bureaucracy; globalization of economic activity; [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newspeak newspeak]; loss of freedom; and so forth.

==Systems Design==

Systems design refers to design of economic paradigms which consider the whole human and natural ecosystem, and the relationships involved, not just an isolated part of that system. For example, non-systems thinking may lead one to conclude that a modern steam engine for transportation is a bad idea compared to biodiesel or fuel alcohol because the thermodynamic efficiency of a steam engine is two times lower than that of diesel engines or gasoline engines. The systems design perspective will claim that the steam engine is a great idea, because biomass pellets can be used as fuel, and the yield of cellulosic biomass per acre is about 10 times higher than the yield of oil or alcohol. The systems thinker will continue, by stating that if the whole system is considered, biomass pellet production is much simpler to accomplish, and that biomass-growing areas can be integrated with other uses such as orcharding or livestock raising, and the systems thinker will continue to make other claims that such an energy source allows for absolute decentralization of production and resilience of communities using the simplest means possible. The point to be made is that the systems thinker can continue to make a large number of claims on how a particular activity is desirable based on a number of systems connections, which the non-systems thinker dismisses as simply not being part of the question.

We believe that destructive non-systems thinking is so pervasive in our society, that in general, individual and societal decision-making is completely partisan, thin on logic, and downright retarded. We are including a metric for systems design in the OSE Specifications to raise awareness of this issue, with a hope, which even if futile, attempts to bring a glimmer of light to the situation.

===[[Systems Engineering]]===

This is the engineering discipline devoted to the entire life cycle of a complex man-made system. This is distinct from specialty disciplines such as mechanical or electrical engineering which are devoted to specific elements of a system.

==Transparency of Production Model and Development Process==

The development process for products, and their production model, should be transparent to any interested observer. This allows for study of, input into, and improvement of the topic of interest. Transparency allows feedback loops to become active, and empowers those who are interested in learning more about a topic. Transparency is one of several qualities of a distributive, economic process.

Transparency of some program implies that the program is open to suggestions, correction, or replication of itself, stemming from an ethical foundation of the given program. Therefore, tools such as non-disclosure agreements, patents, trade secrets, and other means of protectionism are inconsistent with the creation of transparency.

===Development Process===

1. Participation in the development process is entirely voluntary. No compensation for alienation is necessary. As a result, the best designs are produced from the commitment of passionate stakeholders.

2. Anyone may join or leave the development group at any time

3. Collaborative development process utilizes the input of diverse stakeholders

4. Steps and results of the development process are documented

==Creation of Post-Scarcity Levels of Production==

Post-scarcity levels of production imply the availability of effective tools of production, including both hardware and techniques - which allow for the ample meeting of human needs. Post-scarcity levels of production also imply that local, nonstrategic resources can be utilized effectively, reliably, and with the capacity to produce significant surplus. The goal of attaining post-scarcity levels of production of something are thus synonymous with a particular community being able to transcend physical survival as a basis for evolving to pursuits beyond mere survival.

==Simplicity and Low Cost==

The design and implementation of any product or service should be the simplest from both the fabrication and cost perspective, such that it is the most readily replicable. Attaining simplicity is indeed the most difficult design challenge. Most people confuse high performance with extra features, because they externalize the hidden liabilities that accompany the extra features. Simplicity is synonymous with efficient resource use. Simplicity should also apply to the fabrication procedure of an object. As such, simplicity is also synonymous with low cost. The basic design philosophy of OSE is to include simplicity in design and fabrication - ie, design-for-fabrication should be applied.

==Lifetime, Modular Design; Design-for-Disassembly; Design-for-Scalability (DfS)==

(Note: For mainstream reference on lifetime design, see the work of [[Saul Griffith]])

Simplicity of design promotes the features of lifetime, modular, and scalable design-for-disassembly (DfD).

Lifetime design implies that the value of a product does not depreciate over time. This implies freedom from labor required to replace a certain product, which has direct implication for one's access to free time.

Modular design is a design which allows different modules to be used and interchanged, giving the user control over and flexibility with the object of use.

DfD means that parts of modules may be replaced readily, by taking the module apart. This has profound implications to lifetime design.

DfS is more than a design that can be scaled. It is the principle of designing things with ease of scalability as one of the features - ie, design that can be scaled easily. This is a slight improvement over design that can be scaled, in that DfS includes explicit features that make scalability easy.

Scalability means that a basic building block can be used to make larger or smaller versions. This contributes to low cost and efficiency.

===Multipurpose Modular Design===

Objects should be designed so that they are made as building blocks, or modules, of other or larger objects. This way, objects can be modified. Instead of a whole object having to be replaced to add new functionality, a module may be added. This gives products a flexibility that is built into their very nature, such that the user has additional control with minimum expense. Modularity may sometimes be synonymous with inter-operability, and may sometimes be synonymous with scalability. It may contribute to lifetime design if an object is 100% modular and each module may be replaced. Modularity also means that an object may function as a building block of other objects. In all cases, modularity implies that an object may be modified. The combination of flexibility, adaptability, scalability, interoperability are desirable. These features expand the range of applications, increase lifetime, reduce cost, as well as provide and retain high value. In a material world, these are features that contribute to wealth and prosperity. In a nutshell, modularity provides large value and has low associated costs. These are good implications for individual and community well-being.

If modular design is followed, then the type of interoperability of using building blocks leads us to a [[Pattern Language]] of technology. In this pattern language, the modules or building blocks serve as the sentences of a larger language, or technology infrastructure.

===Scalability===

Products should be designed so that they can be scaled up or down - such as by addition of new modules, or using multiples of a part in parallel. For example, a solar concentrator system designed according to the principle of scalability should be a linear design (see [[Solar Power Generator]]), so that it could be enlarged either by lengthening or widening the array.

==Localization of Material Sourcing and of Production==

For community resilience, ability to use local resources is key. While it is important that a community have this ability for essential needs, it is optional, though desirable, for other nonessential items.

Using local resources may necessitate that a given community have additional technology to produce a certain item. For example, if a given community does not have the conditions to grow a certain crop easily, it may want to invest in the additional technology required to grow that crop successfully. Or, if a certain community does not have adequate water, it should invest in well-drilling or roof-catchment technology, instead of importing water from unsecured sources.

A community should thus, in general, strive to increase its technology base to accommodate the provision of all essentials, and not settle on its ability to trade to procure these essentials, as trade may be vulnerable to disruption. Trade is quite acceptable for non-essential items, such as musical instruments, since disruption of such supply does not threaten the survival of a community. The level of technology in which a community is autonomous should be determined on practical grounds.

Moreover, in today's world, we already hear about 'produced locally.' We should add 'sourced locally' to our vocabulary - as resilience implies not only local production, but also local sourcing. Local sourcing typically requires that a community have additional technological infrastructure and knowhow for providing the necessary feedstocks.

===Localization Levels===

*Level 1 - production is local
*Level 2 - sourcing of materials used in production is local
*Level 3 - raw material production is local
*Level 4 - production machinery used in the production process above is open source and locally fabricated

Localization applies to the creation of natural economies, or those economies based on the substance of their own, natural resources, free of supply chain disruptions.

An example of Level 3 is that local aluminum is made by smelting aluminum from local clays.

If localization is taken to all the 4 levels, for all necessities of sustaining its population - that means that a region is autonomous, and as such, has no built-in tendency to wage war for others' resources. This is the
critical point of localization - its benign effect on global geopolitical struggle. In simple words, people don't kill and steal.

==Ecological Qualities==

The product of interest must be good for the environment.

==Economic Feasibility and Replicability==

===Minimization of Waste, Overhead, and Bureaucracy===

The key point to the competitiveness of agile, open source enterprise is its lean structure with minimal overhead. Minimization of waste occurs by collaborative development, such that R&D costs are shared by a number of stakeholders. Competitive waste is eliminated by open enterprise giving services away rather than competing for market share, which is the ethical marketing strategy for open enterprise.

Other strategies for keeping overhead low are [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/?p=391 crowd-funding the production facility], such as in Factor e Farm's case. We also propose paperwork reduction by operating as an un-incorporated entity, with contractually-based fiscal fiduciaries and liability management, operation in the Republic via private contract, and by in-house legal literacy.

===Product Evolution===

A process should be in place for continued maintenance and development of a product. This could be a support community, foundation, or users.

===Fabrication Facilities===

Concrete Flexible Fabrication mechanism exists for others to purchase the product at reasonable cost. This is a means to assuring that a diversity of suppliers exists, such that monopoly is avoided.

===Open Franchising or [[Open Business Model]]===

This point defines how easily one can obtain access to replicable enterprise design. See our motivation with respect to Open Business Models, as described under the [[OSE License]].

There is a number of details that goes into enterprise replications. These are all the standard details found in a [[Business Plan]], plus the actual technical details that go into that plan, such as designs and CAD, fabrication procedures, BOM and sourcing information, economic analysis, ergonomic analysis, and so forth.

If you are interested in replicating an enterprise, then please inquire with us regarding practical considerations. For those interested in replication, we are looking for long-term commitment to provide the necessary due diligence of business model documentation.

===Startup Assistance===

Producer training is the key to assisting others to start up enterprise. Dedicated workshops should be available for others to learn the trade. We plan on offering a 2 year immersion program, which includes not only workshop skills, but agriculture, as well as theoretical and organizational aspects.

=Calculation of a Metric Score=

The questionnaire below can be used to determine whether a product meets the OSE specifications. There are 42 questions, so the maximum score is 42.

===Economic Significance===
*Is it relevant for meeting the material needs of humans?

===Distributive Economics===
*Does the economic model distribute economic power?
'''Transformative Nature of Enterprise'''
*Does it promote community and global resilience?

===Systems Design===
*Does it consider the complete human and natural ecosystem?

===Ecology===
*Is it good for the environment?

===Development Process===
*Is participation in the process entirely voluntary?
*Can anyone join or leave the development group at any time?
*Does the collaborative development process utilize the input of diverse stakeholders?
*Are the steps and results of the development process documented?

===Simplicity of design===
*Is it low Cost?
*Does it have Long Life?
*Is it modular?
*Is it designed for disassembly?

===Design for scalability===
*Can it be scaled up?
*Can it be scaled down?
*Is it easily scalable?

===Localization===
====Materials====
*Are materials used in production local?
*Is raw material production local?

====Production====
*Is product production local?
*Is the machinery used in production process open source?
*Is the machinery used in production process locally fabricated?

===Economic Feasibility and Replicability===
*Is there minimal overhead?
*Is there minimal waste?
*Are R&D costs shared by a number of stakeholders?
*Are services given away?
*Are production facilities Crowd-funded?

===Product Evolution===

*Is there continual produce maintenance?
*Is there continual product development?

===Fabrication Facilities===

*Is there a flexible fabrication mechanism?

===Open Business Model===

*Is there a Business Plan?
*Are there technical details in the business plan?

===Open Documentation===

*Is content Open Source?
*Is content readily accessible (downloadable)?
*Are there design drawings?

====Designs====
*Are design drawings CAD?
*Are fabrication procedures detailed?
*Is economic analysis available?
*Is ergonomic analysis available?

====Bill of Materials (BOM)====
*Is there a parts list?
*Is Sourcing of parts listed?
*Are prices of parts listed?

===Startup Assistance===

*Is producer training available?

=Summary=
In summary, we aim to raise the standards embodied in open source product development efforts by articulating the possibilities. OSE Specification describes all the desirable features that can be embodied in open economic development, under the assumption that maximum advancement of distributive production is the best route to human prosperity.

OSE Specifications, as applied to technology - imply ''liberatory technology'' - defined as technology which serves the true needs of people and liberates time for other pursuits beyond survival. This is distinct from technology which controls people - where in today's world - with ever-advancing technology, people enjoy less free time.

=Application of OSE Specifications to Assessing the Liberatory Potential of Technologies=
OSE Specifications, when applied to production of physical products, allow for transparent assessment of the overall openness or accessibility of ''so-called'' open source products. This specification is intended to help people assess distributive production aspects of projects, by distinguishing between the various degrees of ‘opensource-ness’ embodied in projects. This is because some projects call themselves ‘open source’ when only a small portion of the hardware, or even no physical portion, is open source.

For example, in the case of the [http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/16/autobloggreen-qanda-open-source-green-vehicle-project/ OS Green Vehicle], the only open source component is an apparent design process, but the output of the design process is proprietary. As quoted from the website, ‘Your rights to use, modify and re-distribute any data from this web site are limited.’ Moreover, the components used in the car are proprietary. Therefore, the OS Green Vehicle has a low OSE Specifications metric score.

Access refers to use for both private or market purposes. The specification is not neutral in its goals, just as no technologies are ever neutral. The intent goes so far as to point out the nuances that contribute to a particular direction of: (1), promoting ecological integrity, (2), contributing to the highest possible quality of life, and (3), creating the widest possible distribution of wealth. Because the open source method of product development has immense potential in transforming the economic system, the OSE Specification aims to address the evaluation of positive change endorsed by various open source projects.

The scope of OSE Specifications is far-reaching: it considers all the steps necessary for a product to be user-accessible. This includes open access to relevant information and affordable access to physical products. The goal is distributive economics.

OSE Specification stipulates access to physical production facilities that can build wealth in re-localized communities. But OSE Specifications go even further: replication and viral spread of wealth - or distributive production. OSE Specifications address the means for replicating the production process itself. This includes not only self-replicating machines and systems, but the development of open business models, training materials, and apprenticeships for entrepreneurs. As the final step, we consider the availability of capitalization assistance within the metric. The capitalization assistance may be part of a new entrepreneur's apprenticeship - where, for example - real products can be made and sold within the apprenticeship. We redefine the 'capital' in 'capitalization assistance' from 'money' to 'the ability to produce just about anything required for business startup at low cost.'

Such level of commitment to the success of replication may imply a hidden agenda behind this program. Indeed there is: the greatest possible empowerment of people and communities to be the masters of their destinies, by unleashed human productivity fueled by open access to information and enabling hardware.

OSE Spec addresses access to both producers and users - both on the individual and community scale. Production could occur by do-it-yourself means on the individual scale in flexible fabrication facilities. The community scale promotes division of labor, and therefore a high standard of living. The OSE Spec addresses the availability of blueprints or digital designs, which can be used readily in manual or automated, computer-controlled fabrication facilities.

OSE Specifications

2011-05-09T22:06:29Z

Conor: Total rewrite. I'm putting the old version on the talk page for reference, but I think I got all the key points.

Open Source Ecology should pursue projects that are -

*'''Economically significant''' - The [[Global Village Construction Set]] is designed to meet all the core needs of a village of people. Every one of the tools should significantly improve people lives by saving labor or creating material abundance. The GVCS focuses on core needs, rather than specialist goods or luxuries. As a result, there is likely to be a large commercial market for the tools.
*'''Open-source''' - All information on the tools should be published openly. This includes bills of materials (with sources and pricing information), 3D drawings and step-by-step instructions for building. Information that might useful to people starting a business using GVCS tools (such as a marketing strategy, or break-even point analysis) should also be published openly. <br>Keeping the design information open (rather than protecting it as a trade secret or applying for patents) allows people to replicate the machines. It also allows a global community of designers to work together and improve the design over time.<br>When products are developed in this way, the designer, producer and user are the same person. The incentive is therefore to design high-quality goods; you will have to use them yourself. Ideally, this should lead to a vibrantly creative community of user-makers who feel actively involved in creating goods.
*'''Decentralizing''' - We promote the economic system that [[Mahatma Gandhi]] called ''swadeshi'' - one in which production is radically decentralized and most things are available locally. To this end, we favor using local resources. For example, using local wind resources to generate electricity is more in accordance with OSE Specifications that importing oil.<br>We promote simple, robust designs that anyone can build, operate and repair (using openly-published information). It is best if the tools are easy to take apart so they can be repaired easily.<br>It should be possible to build and operate OSE tools without relying on a large infrastructure. This facilitates replication of the tools all over the world.<br>Of course, it is not possible to build things like electronics entirely from the resources locally available on a farm. So after we have developed open-source ways of assembling components to make machines, we aim to develop open-source ways of building the components themselves, then develop open-source ways of extracting the raw materials to make the components. In this way, we aim to move as far up the value-chain as possible and come closer to perfect self-sufficiency. We call this progression [[productive recursion]].<br>We believe that communities where resources are produced locally, by people you know personally, tend to be more intimate, more loving and happier than communities where resources are shipped in from who-knows-where without human contact or transparency.
*'''Replicable''' - Anything OSE builds, any other group should be able to build easily. This is enabled by keeping costs to a minimum (so groups with limited finances can build the tools), by openly sharing design information and building instructions, by sharing information on financial assistance for start-up groups, and by favoring tools that can be [[:Category:Digital Fabrication|digitally fabricated]]. The more the GVCS is replicated, the more designers will contribute to it (remember, every user is also a designer), and the better the designs will become.
*'''Abundance-creating''' - The effect of the GVCS should be to create a system that delivers food, technology, transport and all the requirements of life in abundance. There should be no need to struggle to make ends meet. This is possible when we focus on producing actual resources rather than on making money. Money is often scarce but resources (when harvested intelligently using appropriate technology) are abundant.
*'''Cheap''' - Tools should be affordable. This is enabled by simple design (which minimizes labor costs), productive recursion (which minimizes material costs) and by open information (which cuts out administrative costs). The experience of most open-source hardware groups so far indicates that open-source tools are typically 8-10 cheaper than their commercially-developed counterparts. The cheaper the GVCS is to build, the more it will be replicated around the world.
*'''Circular in their use of resources''' - We favor goods whose inputs can be met by other elements of the GVCS and whose outputs can be reused in other elements of the GVCS. For example, a bicycle built on the [[torch table]], when it is no longer needed, can be melted down in the [[induction furnace]] and become the feedstock for another product. Nothing should be considered "waste"; everything should be recycled. This enables local self-sufficiency and allows industry to be ecologically-benign.
*'''Flexible''' - Tools should be useful for many tasks. An example is the [[RepRap|3D printer]], which can make any plastic object that needs to be made. It is best if tools are flexible across a range of scales: from big projects to small projects. An example would be a wind turbine that can be designed in a small, one kilowatt version, to meet a single person's needs, or in a 200 kilowatt version, to meet the needs of a village or farm. Flexible tools are more likely to be replicated than specialized tools.<br>The [[universal rotor]] is a good example of a flexible tool; it can be used in anything that spins, from a [[honey extractor]] to a [[washing machine]]. The components of the tools (e.g. motors) should also capable of fulfilling a wide variety of roles.
*'''Ecologically-sound''' - We are not willing to increase crop yield here if it means poisoning a river a hundred miles over there. We are not willing to promote human good if it means destroying other species. Recognizing that all things are interconnected, we assess our technologies in terms of their effect on the whole system of life.<br>In practical terms, this means minimizing waste in favor of a recycled and recyclable materials, using energy, water and other resources efficiently, and avoiding toxic substances.
*'''High-quality''' - The tools should work well enough to create abundance and should be built to last. Their performance should be good enough to fulfill the task, but need not exceed that (for example, the [[open source car]] need not have a top speed of 200mph).
*'''Sustainable''' - Products should be built for a lifetime of use, with only minimal maintenance (and that maintenance should be easy). This is facilitated by simple design. Looking at the bigger picture, too, the product and its impact should not cause adverse effects, even if used for millenia.

We believe that a society whose wealth and resources are managed in accordance with these specifications will flourish in material wealth. With abundant wealth and community-based production, competition becomes unnecessary, and people have no need to contend with their brothers and sisters, allowing them to experience real connection, community, mutual respect, love, brotherhood and peace. The time and energy that would be taken up by a struggle to survive in impoverished conditions, or by rivalry, mistrust and fear in competitive conditions, can be redirected into lives of passion, creativity and peace.

==Questionnaire==
Use this list of questions as a guideline to decide if a tool is an appropriate addition to the [[GVCS]] -
#Does it fulfill a really important need?
#Does it contribute to making the GVCS a complete economy?
#Is using this technology a significantly better than doing the same task by hand, either in terms of quality of the work, or in time saved? (Obviously, this question doesn't apply to things that cannot be done by hand)
#Will design blueprints be published openly?
#Will step-by step instructions for building the tool be published openly?
#Will the bill of materials, including a list of sources and prices, be published openly?
#Will an analysis of financial costs of a start-up using the tools be published openly?
#Can it be made and used by communities just about anywhere, regardless of local conditions?
#Can it be easily taken apart and put back together?
#Is it sturdy? Can it be repaired easily?
#Will it last a lifetime with minimal, easy maintenance?
#Does it lend itself to digital fabrication, or another replicable fabrication method?
#Does it produce the product or service it provides in abundance, without demanding a great deal of time or effort?
#Is it affordable? Is it disruptively cheaper than commercially-available machines that do the same thing?
#Is the design simple?
#Are its inputs locally available or provided by other GVCS tools?
#Are its outputs usable (or recyclable) by other GVCS tools?
#Does it have bad environmental impacts?
#It it useful in a wide variety of situations?
#Are its components useful for more than one thing?
#Can it be built in larger and smaller versions? Alternatively, can multiple small ones be built to fulfill the task of a large one?
#Does it perform to a high enough standard that the user would be satisfied?

Honey extractor

2011-05-09T21:49:20Z

Conor: Redirected page to Open Source Honey Extractor

#REDIRECT [[Open Source Honey Extractor]]

Open source car

2011-05-09T21:49:09Z

Conor: Redirected page to Open Source Car

#REDIRECT [[Open Source Car]]

Productive recursion

2011-05-09T20:46:52Z

Conor: Redirected page to Productive Recursion

#REDIRECT [[Productive Recursion]]

OSE Specifications

2011-05-09T18:17:11Z

Conor:

Before you read further, please see the [[OSE Mission]].

OSE Specifications are a way of identifying tools that will allow people to create abundant local economic production as a basis for community prosperity in an interconnected world. The OSE Specifications are a list of qualities; technologies that have these qualities are technologies that allow people to use their local resource-base to create abundance. Material abundance leaves people with free time and energy to fuel cultural and scientific progress.

These values are to be embodied in the development process, in the recruitment of volunteers, in OSE's organizational structure and in all operations, public and private:

{{Wanted|Shorten this list and simplify it. A lot of these just repeat other values (In work, see [[Requirements Analysis]]) [[User:DanielRavenNest|DanielRavenNest]] 06:42, 5 May 2011 (PDT)}}

#'''Open''' - Open Source Ecology endorses the open-source culture of sharing and collaborative development. This applies to all components of the project: technical design, organizational structure, finances, business and marketing methods etc. Everything we know, you know. We encourage members to collaborate openly, in a culture of respect. We are aiming to create collaboration structures (such as wikis and web forums) to facilitate this open flow of information. We encourage everybody on the development team to be transparent about their work, and to ask openly for collaborative assistance. We encourage everybody to give information away for free – as the cost of sharing information is zero.<br>It is imperative that the technical details of the [[Global Village Construction Set]] tools be published openly on the Internet, with no restrictions, patents or trade secrets. Bills of materials, 3D designs, schematics, build instructions, and product manuals are to be published on our wiki. This gives the user the power to design, produce, and modify the [[GVCS]] tools according to his or her wishes. The same person is therefore consumer, producer and designer. This leads to robust, tailor-made goods. This allows a global team of developers to improve the tools. <br>Business models should be published openly so that others can replicate any enterprise. We believe it is best to publish plans early and often. This exposes our errors and dead ends to the scrutiny of our online community and leads to faster, better design. We value sharing and collaborative development over greed and exclusiveness. This type of culture promotes co-operation, as opposed to fear-based aggressiveness.
#'''Distributive Economics''' – We believe in decentralizing economic activity. We aim to decentralize the production of food through [[:Category:Food and Agriculture|local food systems]], and decentralize the production of technology by combining local [[Digital Fabrication|digital fabrication]] with global collaborative design to create what we call '[[Industry 2.0]]'.<br>In distributive economics, information should be free because the cost of distributing information is negligible. However, atoms or physical objects are not 'free' in the same sense, as significant energy is required to produce and distribute physical goods.
#'''Low-Cost''' - The cost of buying or making our machines are, on average, 5-10x cheaper than buying from an industrial manufacturer- including an average labor cost of $25 hour for a GVCS fabricator. Commentary:
#'''Modular''' – Components of the GVCS function as interchangeable modules. Motors, parts, assemblies, and power units can interchange, where units can grouped together to diversify the functionality that is achievable from a small set of units. To see how the different parts fit together - see [[Product Ecologies]]. An example it the [[universal rotor]], which can be used in anything that spins, from a honey extractor to a washing machine.
#'''Closed-Loop Material Cycles''' – As in nature, nothing goes to waste, but instead becomes an input for another process. Our project relies on recycling metal into virgin feedstock for producing further GVCS technologies - thereby allowing for cradle-to-cradle manufacturing cycles.
{{Wanted|Resolve the clash between "High Performance" and "Sufficiency"}}
#'''High Performance''' - Performance standards must match or exceed those of industrial counterparts for the GVCS to provide a comparable or better standard of living.
#'''Sufficiency''' – We understand that we need to reach a certain level of performance, and that is sufficient. This is distinct from continuous addition of frivolous bells and whistles.

#'''Ecological Design''' - Our products promote a harmonious co-existence between nature and humans. The entire process and technology must fit the criteria for being environmentally friendly and regenerative.
#'''Adaptability'''– The systems that we are designing are designed to be adaptable. This arises from the ability to modify, scale and replicate the components and systems to meet requirement of constantly changing conditions. The tools are useful anywhere - from the 1st to the 4th worlds, from the city to the country, from high technology to low technology applications, at different scales of operation.
#'''Systems Design''' – Our designs consider the whole system of life support, in terms of hoew the different machines and services interface with one another. Different machines can functions as modules in a wide array of integrated systems. We do not choose technologies with peak point performance, but with peak systems performance as they fit into a resilient community integrated with its natural life support systems. Part of the systems design is synergy – in that the GVCS is intended to attain its maximum potential when all of its components are working with one another.
#'''Lifetime Design''' – Our products are designed for a lifetime of use. Open-source design, where the designer is the user, has no interest in planning obsolescence. Design-for-disassembly, simplicity, transparency, and open-source documentation allows the user to understand, take apart, modify, service, maintain, and fix tools without relying on expensive repairmen.
#'''Substitutability''' – Our products substitute common resources for less common resources.
#'''Flexibility''' – Our tools can be used flexibly in a wide range of applications. Our digital fabrication equipment can flexibly produce a huge variety of products, in contrast with a factory robot that can only produce the same thing over and over again. Our means to [[flexible fabrication]] is the [[open source fab lab]].
#'''Simplicity''' - We design for simplicity without sacrificing performance standards
#'''Complete Economy''' – The work of OSE is intended to be a workable blueprint for a complete economy. Our designs are geared for a maker lifestyle on the part of community members. This is also known as a neo-subsistence lifestyle – where communities can provide all the requirements of a complete economy, such that trade is only an option, not a necessity.
#'''Scalability and holography''' – The GVCS tools are designed to be scalable to different sizes of operations, from individual households to agglomerations of villages (cities). The design should be holographic, in that each unit of operation should be self-contained (complete) and resilient. With modern technology, human organization can be scaled down to the village scale – empowered by open access to information.<br>We look at the village scale of about 200 people as the optimal scale of human organization for several reasons. First, it's a historically proven number. Second, it follows [[Dunbar's Number]] to allow for persistent and meaningful social interaction. Third, it is easily manageable from an organizational point of view without requiring bureaucratic overhead. Fourth, it is sufficiently large to allow specialization via division of labor. Fifth, it allows for a walking- or biking-distance community. Sixth, it is a basic building block - where larger communities may be designed as units of this small scale for the highest possible resilience - as opposed to organization on a larger scale. Seventh, it has been pointed out by the industrial economist, E. F. Schumacher, in his seminal book, [[Small is Beautiful]], that human organization simply breaks down after it reaches a certain scale.
#'''Technological Recursion''' – The flexible fabrication technology also allows producers to produce more complex machines and parts. This allows a local community to, eventually, attain the capacity to produce any technology known to humankind.
#'''Local Resources''' – The GVCS is fueled by local resources, such as water, sunlight, rock and soil. Via technological recursion, these are transformed into useful technology.
#'''Community''' – The GVCS toolset is designed to promote a just, equitable, and life-giving social contract for a community. The tools are designed to be used by a village-scale community, not by individuals. Within this village, there is a social contract based on division of labor, so that the work of each member contributes to the well-being of the whole community. The role of the individual is lifelong learning, stewardship of land and resources and nonviolence. This co-operative arrangement, along with increased freedom from material constraints, promotes connection between people. This reconnection also includes reconnection to one's true needs, to one's family, and to the global family of all living creatures.
#'''Proven Techniques''' – We focus on time-proven concepts, techniques, and technologies. All are principles are generally regarded as common, historical knowledge or wisdom learned through eons of civilization.
#'''Cross-Disciplinary Integration''' – We provide cutting edge practice in so far as they are integrations of knowledge from many fields and disciplines. We value unabashed boundary-crossing and cross-fertilization, drawing from as many cultures, regions, and time periods as possible.
#'''New Economics''' – One aspect of OSE is that it allows for the creation of a resource based economy, where true wealth is based on the value of natural, primarily local resources, where wealth is created from adding value to natural resources by transforming them to human-usable form.
#'''Replicability''' – OSE work is intended to be replicable, self-replicating, and viral. The open-source nature, low-cost, and simplicity of our designs are key to this.
#'''Meaning''' – Technology, when used appropriately, is intended to reconnect one to meaning, and to natural ecosystems. Reconnection to nature can occur from constant interplay between humans and nature, as natural resources are stewarded responsibly to meet human needs by benign processes.
#'''Appropriate Automation''' – We favor automation of repetitive, difficult, dangerous or unrewarding tasks.
#'''Long Term Approach''' – OSE is seeking long-term solutions on the 100 year scale into the future, not band-aids on superficial issues. We are looking at issues for the long haul, with lasting peace and stability for humanity as the goal.
#'''Networked model communities''' – We are interested in creating a network of like-minded communities that follow OSE values, so that cultural exchange can happen between different communities. This is the [[1000 Global Villages]] concept - 1000 villages that serve as model communities and influence the rest of the world in a positive way.
#'''Land and Resource Stewardship''' – Each OSE facility functions as a land steward. Land is not for sale, but is preserved for ever as a permanent site of human heritage and cultural growth. Resources are stewarded so that they improve in quality with time, as opposed to becoming depleted.
#'''Iconoclastic Innovation and Transformation''' – OSE favors iconoclastic approaches which address issues at the root, not symptoms – towards addressing pressing world issues (war, poverty, corruption, distribution of wealth, disease, etc.). We are not looking for mass-culture compromises swayed by political or special interests, but for authentic solutions based on virtues common to all humankind.
#'''Absolute Creative Approaches''' - We do not promote destroying anything, just creating a better solution that makes the old paradigm obsolete. We have no use for the concept of "enemy". We do not hate any group or politic, because we are all in this together. We believe in positive psychology, inspiration, and bringing out the virtues in people – by appealing to their absolute creative, transcendent potential for solutions. We do not endorse fear- or punishment-based motivation tactics.
#'''Realism''' - We favor a realistic approach that can be implemented today, not futuristic dreaming.
#'''Abundance'''- We believe that there are abundant resources – minerals, energy, food, water etc. – for everyone, if we use them efficiently and intelligently. We promote social and technological arrangements that lead to abundance, allowing people free time to pursue their happiness

=Methods and Strategic Approaches=

#'''Distributive Economics''' - We recognize the challenges of sharing information openly – in that someone else can 'steal' an idea and capitalize on it. We address this issue by encouraging people to publish openly, so that prior art makes information accessible to all, and therefore, making information un-patentable and therefore incapable of being appropriated. In order to capture value, we encourage humans to organize around information resource commons, while building in a physical, productive infrastructure to convert information into the substance of modern-day living via benign, industrial processes
#'''Notes on Patents'''. These make sense only in a world based on scarcity. We encourage each community that adopts OSE principles to build complete, open source, economic productivity – where true wealth can be generated easily. In this case, what is the need for patents? If a community can provide all of its needs - then we enter into the concept of sufficiency. State-of-art point technologies that optimize one feature of performance are not necessarily useful for an ecological tool set. We are interested more in overall, or ecological, performance - as opposed to point performance.
#'''Creative Approach''' - There is a number of movements that cater to fears regarding the end of the world or other comprehensive collapse scenarios. Our approach is intended to empower people from a perspective of what is a-priori favorable and benign - whether or not any cataclysm is on the horizon. IT is important to underscore that we focus on positive psychology and transcendence, which we favor over an approach based on fear, because fear-based response is not as likely to create long-lasting solutions.
#'''Modular, lifetime design''' – The core of lifetime design is design-for-disassembly and modularity. Design-for-disassembly is synonymous with user ability to 'look under the hood' of a certain device. Modules are interchangeable units of functionality.
#'''Closed Loop Manufacturing''' – OSE endorses closed loop eco-industry, where waste does not exist as the waste is turned into feedstock for other processes.

=Components of OSE Specifications=
{{Wanted|Get rid of this list by merging it into the other lists above}}
OSE Specifications cover a number of aspects of economically-significant production, covering the development and production aspects:

*Economic significance
*Open documentation
*Distributive economic nature
*Transformative nature of enterprise
*Systems design
*Transparency and participatory nature of production model and development process
*Creation of post-scarcity levels of production
*Simplicity and low cost
*Lifetime, modular design; design-for-disassembly; design-for-scalability
*Localization of material sourcing and of production
*Ecological qualities
*Economic Feasibility and Replicability
**Minimization of waste, overhead, and bureaucracy
**Product Evolution
**Fabrication Facilities
**Open Franchising or Open Business Model
**Startup Assistance

* Resources (e.g. land) needed for the tool should be locally available
* The need the tool meets should be essential to a large market. No specialist goods or luxuries.
* Provision of a robust village economy and sufficient surplus for further developments
* Generative nature of the product, thus promoting self-replication of the village
* The GVCS tools together should cover every essential service for a village.
* Viability of a community on a village scale, perhaps 100 people, but as few as 2 or as many as sustained by the land base

==Economic Significance==

Economic significance refers to the overall economic importance of a given product or service. The assumption here that economic significance is defined on the basis of relevance for meeting the material needs of humans. For example, fuels and tractors constitute multibillion dollar global markets, and are thus economically significant. On the other hand, plain discussion may have little economic significance, if is not more than hot air.

==Open Documentation==

===Readily accessible or downloadble documentation and design===

Distributed information in the computer age is made most readily accessible if it is available for immediate download from the internet. If material is available in electronic format, it may be manipulated or utilized readily with software tools. For example, digital designs may be edited or used immediately in CAD or CAM. If CAM formats are available, then data at one point in space can be readily transformed into a physical object at another point in space, in the presence of digital fabrication capacities.

===Design Drawings===

This is a start towards replicability.

===Bill of Materials (BOM)===

Next to design drawing, the BOM is the second most important towards replicability. This is a detailed listing of all parts used, sourcing, and prices. Availability of the BOM saves the potential builder countless hours of searching for part availability and for reasonable pricing. Relevant comments should be made alongside the BOM, such as, quality or reliability of certain vendors, their quality of service, and any other useful comments. The only difficulty with a BOM may be that if the audience is global, sourcing may not be readily available or shipping may be prohibitive, so local substitution of parts must be made. If a BOM is available, then the building of a specific product can commence immediately: there is no guessing which parts would work, or which supplier is reliable. At best, the process for one-off individual production can be as follows:
#an individual decides that they need a certain product
#they look that product up on an online repository of open source products, download fabrication procedures and parts lists
#purchase parts locally all on the same day if they are located in an urban area where many suppliers are available
#and start building a certain project.
All these steps can potentially be completed in one day when the BOM is available. Open design drawings and plans are only one aspect, but the critical point to enabling immediate production is the availability of BOMs, as the last step prior to actual fabrication.

Under this scenario, a realistic possibility emerges that a large number of individuals discontinue purchasing slave goods from who-knows-where, and begin to fabricate them locally. This is feasibile on the individual level for anyone equipped with a robust Fab Lab, or when small groups (a few to a dozen people) get together to purchase low-cost, open source, digital fabrication equipment. These people could operate out of backyard garages, rented workshop spaces, co-working facilities, or other community supported manufacturing operations. The types of products that yield themselves particularly to this type of production are those items that fall beyond the class of disposable goods, and are more or less long-use items. These items include electronics, mechanized tools, semi-heavy machinery, green vehicles, renewable energy systems, among others.

====Tools====
[[CAD by Mariano Alvira]] and [[SKDB]] are two different tools that can improve and automate different aspects of handling a BOM.

===Free information===

If information is free, it is most easily accessible.

==Distributive Economics==

Distributive economics refer to economic models that tend to distribute economic power as opposed to monopolizing this power.

==Transformative Nature of Enterprise==

We are interested in transformative economics, or those economics which tend towards community and global resilience, while having qualities that, proactively, move the world away from: concentration of societal power; perennial warfare; loss of meaning; bureaucracy; globalization of economic activity; [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newspeak newspeak]; loss of freedom; and so forth.

==Systems Design==

Systems design refers to design of economic paradigms which consider the whole human and natural ecosystem, and the relationships involved, not just an isolated part of that system. For example, non-systems thinking may lead one to conclude that a modern steam engine for transportation is a bad idea compared to biodiesel or fuel alcohol because the thermodynamic efficiency of a steam engine is two times lower than that of diesel engines or gasoline engines. The systems design perspective will claim that the steam engine is a great idea, because biomass pellets can be used as fuel, and the yield of cellulosic biomass per acre is about 10 times higher than the yield of oil or alcohol. The systems thinker will continue, by stating that if the whole system is considered, biomass pellet production is much simpler to accomplish, and that biomass-growing areas can be integrated with other uses such as orcharding or livestock raising, and the systems thinker will continue to make other claims that such an energy source allows for absolute decentralization of production and resilience of communities using the simplest means possible. The point to be made is that the systems thinker can continue to make a large number of claims on how a particular activity is desirable based on a number of systems connections, which the non-systems thinker dismisses as simply not being part of the question.

We believe that destructive non-systems thinking is so pervasive in our society, that in general, individual and societal decision-making is completely partisan, thin on logic, and downright retarded. We are including a metric for systems design in the OSE Specifications to raise awareness of this issue, with a hope, which even if futile, attempts to bring a glimmer of light to the situation.

===[[Systems Engineering]]===

This is the engineering discipline devoted to the entire life cycle of a complex man-made system. This is distinct from specialty disciplines such as mechanical or electrical engineering which are devoted to specific elements of a system.

==Transparency of Production Model and Development Process==

The development process for products, and their production model, should be transparent to any interested observer. This allows for study of, input into, and improvement of the topic of interest. Transparency allows feedback loops to become active, and empowers those who are interested in learning more about a topic. Transparency is one of several qualities of a distributive, economic process.

Transparency of some program implies that the program is open to suggestions, correction, or replication of itself, stemming from an ethical foundation of the given program. Therefore, tools such as non-disclosure agreements, patents, trade secrets, and other means of protectionism are inconsistent with the creation of transparency.

===Development Process===

1. Participation in the development process is entirely voluntary. No compensation for alienation is necessary. As a result, the best designs are produced from the commitment of passionate stakeholders.

2. Anyone may join or leave the development group at any time

3. Collaborative development process utilizes the input of diverse stakeholders

4. Steps and results of the development process are documented

==Creation of Post-Scarcity Levels of Production==

Post-scarcity levels of production imply the availability of effective tools of production, including both hardware and techniques - which allow for the ample meeting of human needs. Post-scarcity levels of production also imply that local, nonstrategic resources can be utilized effectively, reliably, and with the capacity to produce significant surplus. The goal of attaining post-scarcity levels of production of something are thus synonymous with a particular community being able to transcend physical survival as a basis for evolving to pursuits beyond mere survival.

==Simplicity and Low Cost==

The design and implementation of any product or service should be the simplest from both the fabrication and cost perspective, such that it is the most readily replicable. Attaining simplicity is indeed the most difficult design challenge. Most people confuse high performance with extra features, because they externalize the hidden liabilities that accompany the extra features. Simplicity is synonymous with efficient resource use. Simplicity should also apply to the fabrication procedure of an object. As such, simplicity is also synonymous with low cost. The basic design philosophy of OSE is to include simplicity in design and fabrication - ie, design-for-fabrication should be applied.

==Lifetime, Modular Design; Design-for-Disassembly; Design-for-Scalability (DfS)==

(Note: For mainstream reference on lifetime design, see the work of [[Saul Griffith]])

Simplicity of design promotes the features of lifetime, modular, and scalable design-for-disassembly (DfD).

Lifetime design implies that the value of a product does not depreciate over time. This implies freedom from labor required to replace a certain product, which has direct implication for one's access to free time.

Modular design is a design which allows different modules to be used and interchanged, giving the user control over and flexibility with the object of use.

DfD means that parts of modules may be replaced readily, by taking the module apart. This has profound implications to lifetime design.

DfS is more than a design that can be scaled. It is the principle of designing things with ease of scalability as one of the features - ie, design that can be scaled easily. This is a slight improvement over design that can be scaled, in that DfS includes explicit features that make scalability easy.

Scalability means that a basic building block can be used to make larger or smaller versions. This contributes to low cost and efficiency.

===Multipurpose Modular Design===

Objects should be designed so that they are made as building blocks, or modules, of other or larger objects. This way, objects can be modified. Instead of a whole object having to be replaced to add new functionality, a module may be added. This gives products a flexibility that is built into their very nature, such that the user has additional control with minimum expense. Modularity may sometimes be synonymous with inter-operability, and may sometimes be synonymous with scalability. It may contribute to lifetime design if an object is 100% modular and each module may be replaced. Modularity also means that an object may function as a building block of other objects. In all cases, modularity implies that an object may be modified. The combination of flexibility, adaptability, scalability, interoperability are desirable. These features expand the range of applications, increase lifetime, reduce cost, as well as provide and retain high value. In a material world, these are features that contribute to wealth and prosperity. In a nutshell, modularity provides large value and has low associated costs. These are good implications for individual and community well-being.

If modular design is followed, then the type of interoperability of using building blocks leads us to a [[Pattern Language]] of technology. In this pattern language, the modules or building blocks serve as the sentences of a larger language, or technology infrastructure.

===Scalability===

Products should be designed so that they can be scaled up or down - such as by addition of new modules, or using multiples of a part in parallel. For example, a solar concentrator system designed according to the principle of scalability should be a linear design (see [[Solar Power Generator]]), so that it could be enlarged either by lengthening or widening the array.

==Localization of Material Sourcing and of Production==

For community resilience, ability to use local resources is key. While it is important that a community have this ability for essential needs, it is optional, though desirable, for other nonessential items.

Using local resources may necessitate that a given community have additional technology to produce a certain item. For example, if a given community does not have the conditions to grow a certain crop easily, it may want to invest in the additional technology required to grow that crop successfully. Or, if a certain community does not have adequate water, it should invest in well-drilling or roof-catchment technology, instead of importing water from unsecured sources.

A community should thus, in general, strive to increase its technology base to accommodate the provision of all essentials, and not settle on its ability to trade to procure these essentials, as trade may be vulnerable to disruption. Trade is quite acceptable for non-essential items, such as musical instruments, since disruption of such supply does not threaten the survival of a community. The level of technology in which a community is autonomous should be determined on practical grounds.

Moreover, in today's world, we already hear about 'produced locally.' We should add 'sourced locally' to our vocabulary - as resilience implies not only local production, but also local sourcing. Local sourcing typically requires that a community have additional technological infrastructure and knowhow for providing the necessary feedstocks.

===Localization Levels===

*Level 1 - production is local
*Level 2 - sourcing of materials used in production is local
*Level 3 - raw material production is local
*Level 4 - production machinery used in the production process above is open source and locally fabricated

Localization applies to the creation of natural economies, or those economies based on the substance of their own, natural resources, free of supply chain disruptions.

An example of Level 3 is that local aluminum is made by smelting aluminum from local clays.

If localization is taken to all the 4 levels, for all necessities of sustaining its population - that means that a region is autonomous, and as such, has no built-in tendency to wage war for others' resources. This is the
critical point of localization - its benign effect on global geopolitical struggle. In simple words, people don't kill and steal.

==Ecological Qualities==

The product of interest must be good for the environment.

==Economic Feasibility and Replicability==

===Minimization of Waste, Overhead, and Bureaucracy===

The key point to the competitiveness of agile, open source enterprise is its lean structure with minimal overhead. Minimization of waste occurs by collaborative development, such that R&D costs are shared by a number of stakeholders. Competitive waste is eliminated by open enterprise giving services away rather than competing for market share, which is the ethical marketing strategy for open enterprise.

Other strategies for keeping overhead low are [http://openfarmtech.org/weblog/?p=391 crowd-funding the production facility], such as in Factor e Farm's case. We also propose paperwork reduction by operating as an un-incorporated entity, with contractually-based fiscal fiduciaries and liability management, operation in the Republic via private contract, and by in-house legal literacy.

===Product Evolution===

A process should be in place for continued maintenance and development of a product. This could be a support community, foundation, or users.

===Fabrication Facilities===

Concrete Flexible Fabrication mechanism exists for others to purchase the product at reasonable cost. This is a means to assuring that a diversity of suppliers exists, such that monopoly is avoided.

===Open Franchising or [[Open Business Model]]===

This point defines how easily one can obtain access to replicable enterprise design. See our motivation with respect to Open Business Models, as described under the [[OSE License]].

There is a number of details that goes into enterprise replications. These are all the standard details found in a [[Business Plan]], plus the actual technical details that go into that plan, such as designs and CAD, fabrication procedures, BOM and sourcing information, economic analysis, ergonomic analysis, and so forth.

If you are interested in replicating an enterprise, then please inquire with us regarding practical considerations. For those interested in replication, we are looking for long-term commitment to provide the necessary due diligence of business model documentation.

===Startup Assistance===

Producer training is the key to assisting others to start up enterprise. Dedicated workshops should be available for others to learn the trade. We plan on offering a 2 year immersion program, which includes not only workshop skills, but agriculture, as well as theoretical and organizational aspects.

=Calculation of a Metric Score=

The questionnaire below can be used to determine whether a product meets the OSE specifications. There are 42 questions, so the maximum score is 42.

===Economic Significance===
*Is it relevant for meeting the material needs of humans?

===Distributive Economics===
*Does the economic model distribute economic power?
'''Transformative Nature of Enterprise'''
*Does it promote community and global resilience?

===Systems Design===
*Does it consider the complete human and natural ecosystem?

===Ecology===
*Is it good for the environment?

===Development Process===
*Is participation in the process entirely voluntary?
*Can anyone join or leave the development group at any time?
*Does the collaborative development process utilize the input of diverse stakeholders?
*Are the steps and results of the development process documented?

===Simplicity of design===
*Is it low Cost?
*Does it have Long Life?
*Is it modular?
*Is it designed for disassembly?

===Design for scalability===
*Can it be scaled up?
*Can it be scaled down?
*Is it easily scalable?

===Localization===
====Materials====
*Are materials used in production local?
*Is raw material production local?

====Production====
*Is product production local?
*Is the machinery used in production process open source?
*Is the machinery used in production process locally fabricated?

===Economic Feasibility and Replicability===
*Is there minimal overhead?
*Is there minimal waste?
*Are R&D costs shared by a number of stakeholders?
*Are services given away?
*Are production facilities Crowd-funded?

===Product Evolution===

*Is there continual produce maintenance?
*Is there continual product development?

===Fabrication Facilities===

*Is there a flexible fabrication mechanism?

===Open Business Model===

*Is there a Business Plan?
*Are there technical details in the business plan?

===Open Documentation===

*Is content Open Source?
*Is content readily accessible (downloadable)?
*Are there design drawings?

====Designs====
*Are design drawings CAD?
*Are fabrication procedures detailed?
*Is economic analysis available?
*Is ergonomic analysis available?

====Bill of Materials (BOM)====
*Is there a parts list?
*Is Sourcing of parts listed?
*Are prices of parts listed?

===Startup Assistance===

*Is producer training available?

=Summary=
In summary, we aim to raise the standards embodied in open source product development efforts by articulating the possibilities. OSE Specification describes all the desirable features that can be embodied in open economic development, under the assumption that maximum advancement of distributive production is the best route to human prosperity.

OSE Specifications, as applied to technology - imply ''liberatory technology'' - defined as technology which serves the true needs of people and liberates time for other pursuits beyond survival. This is distinct from technology which controls people - where in today's world - with ever-advancing technology, people enjoy less free time.

=Application of OSE Specifications to Assessing the Liberatory Potential of Technologies=
OSE Specifications, when applied to production of physical products, allow for transparent assessment of the overall openness or accessibility of ''so-called'' open source products. This specification is intended to help people assess distributive production aspects of projects, by distinguishing between the various degrees of ‘opensource-ness’ embodied in projects. This is because some projects call themselves ‘open source’ when only a small portion of the hardware, or even no physical portion, is open source.

For example, in the case of the [http://green.autoblog.com/2007/10/16/autobloggreen-qanda-open-source-green-vehicle-project/ OS Green Vehicle], the only open source component is an apparent design process, but the output of the design process is proprietary. As quoted from the website, ‘Your rights to use, modify and re-distribute any data from this web site are limited.’ Moreover, the components used in the car are proprietary. Therefore, the OS Green Vehicle has a low OSE Specifications metric score.

Access refers to use for both private or market purposes. The specification is not neutral in its goals, just as no technologies are ever neutral. The intent goes so far as to point out the nuances that contribute to a particular direction of: (1), promoting ecological integrity, (2), contributing to the highest possible quality of life, and (3), creating the widest possible distribution of wealth. Because the open source method of product development has immense potential in transforming the economic system, the OSE Specification aims to address the evaluation of positive change endorsed by various open source projects.

The scope of OSE Specifications is far-reaching: it considers all the steps necessary for a product to be user-accessible. This includes open access to relevant information and affordable access to physical products. The goal is distributive economics.

OSE Specification stipulates access to physical production facilities that can build wealth in re-localized communities. But OSE Specifications go even further: replication and viral spread of wealth - or distributive production. OSE Specifications address the means for replicating the production process itself. This includes not only self-replicating machines and systems, but the development of open business models, training materials, and apprenticeships for entrepreneurs. As the final step, we consider the availability of capitalization assistance within the metric. The capitalization assistance may be part of a new entrepreneur's apprenticeship - where, for example - real products can be made and sold within the apprenticeship. We redefine the 'capital' in 'capitalization assistance' from 'money' to 'the ability to produce just about anything required for business startup at low cost.'

Such level of commitment to the success of replication may imply a hidden agenda behind this program. Indeed there is: the greatest possible empowerment of people and communities to be the masters of their destinies, by unleashed human productivity fueled by open access to information and enabling hardware.

OSE Spec addresses access to both producers and users - both on the individual and community scale. Production could occur by do-it-yourself means on the individual scale in flexible fabrication facilities. The community scale promotes division of labor, and therefore a high standard of living. The OSE Spec addresses the availability of blueprints or digital designs, which can be used readily in manual or automated, computer-controlled fabrication facilities.

[[Category:Standards]]