Construction and Building Technology Mechatronics students of Summa Engineering in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, have helped building a machine to make the Cellocrete pulp and the control system to infl ate the balloon. The technical installation, which was crucial for the success of the project, turned out to work as required on all fronts. In order to make the cellulosepulp we used an IBC-container on which a large mixer was mounted. With a frequency convertor we varied the speed of an electric motor and we determined the optimal speed, power and the blade combination at which the cellulose sheets were best mixed with the water. These IBC-containers were placed on top of a 12m³ container. When the cellocrete pulp is mixed, the mix container can easily be emptied above the collecting container. In the collecting container the pulp should be kept in motion so that it does not sag and/or freezes. Again, we found a similar solution in the form of two large agitators. “In summary, working on this project was a very satisfying for the students because they could really apply their knowledge and skills. Working under extreme thermal conditions was an interesting experience that will not likely be forgotten” Hans van den Elzen, Summa College 20
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