Notes from test run with prototype #1

Today during class we decided to do a test run with our first prototype! Because we presented to the class the other day, we had already anticipated some of the design flaws that we ended up seeing in our test run, but we wanted to make sure that changes made for our second prototype were as informed as possible. Below are notes, observations and pictures from this test run:
 
- 3/4 bucket of water, 1/2 bucket of materials (ideally 1:1, but due to design flaws this is what we had to use)
- materials were: dirt, leaves, dry grass, water
- used the stick to stir (through the PVC pipe)

Observations:

• removed the top bucket to pour water in -- ideally should only be removed when cleaning and starting fresh; PVC pipe should be used for adding materials
• PVC pipe too long --> made it hard to stir and hard to put in more materials
• should firmly attach lining of the inner tray and should also be bigger (resulted in leaks when trying to empty out)
• faucet needs to be moved lower (in general, draining of water worked but faucet was too high which meant that we had to add a LOT more water - ideally faucet lower so that all water can drain w/o having to be tipped) ... took a long time for water to drain
• faucet needs to be air-tight/not leak --> big leaks out the holes of the faucet (where the screws are)
• top bucket should be moved higher to allow for more material to be added
• need for constant stirring (we suggest using a stick from the great outdoors rather than creating one from artificial materials)
• weren't able to make use of the gas faucet so can't comment on it
• semi-difficult to remove bottom bucket but is a design flaw we are willing to accept