Development Log

We propose to recruit a mini Apollo program of 20 systems designers and engineers to develop and dogfood an open source microfactory. Included is a Design Guide for heavy machinery, and a workbench in FreeCAD - the open source parametric CAD design package - whereby anyone can drag and drop modules to produce meaningful designs based on established design rules. The core of the microfactory itself - a 4000 square foot facility with additional support infractructure such as office space - is an induction furnace for producing virgin steel from scrap metal, and precision machining infrastructure that enables production of advanced components such as engines. The microfactory can produce any advanced machines or products efficiently, at a cost 5-100 lower than leading manufacturers, depending on assumptions of lifecycle analysis. Products include everything from cordless drills, cars, and modular houses. Development of the microfactory facility is proposed with a $4.2M budget on a 2 year time scale, with build cost of a complete facility at about US$100k pending availability of open source blueprints for the same. Startup can be obtained as low as $10k capital startup pending existence of another microfactory, which can self-replicate all of its tooling. An immersion training model can help fund the build and produce the talent for running future operations. See Mini Apollo Program for team requirements. This is intended to deliver the promise of the GVCS TED Talk, a new civilization at $10k financial capital costs.