This work is highly relevant for innovation due to its transformative impact on addressing global water crises. By leveraging additive manufacturing technology and implementing scalable solutions, it pioneers a novel approach to providing safe water access to communities in need. The initiative's ability to adapt laboratory findings into real-world solutions underscores its innovative nature, while its potential for global expansion demonstrates its scalability and adaptability. Moreover, its success in delivering tangible results, such as providing safe water to thousands and recovering substantial amounts of potable water, highlights its effectiveness and relevance in driving innovation in the field of water sustainability.

Filter Caps addresses a global issue, but its implementation must consider cultural, national, and regional contexts to ensure relevance and effectiveness. In many cultures, water holds profound symbolic and spiritual significance, often representing purity, life, and renewal. Therefore, initiatives like Filter Caps resonate deeply with communities worldwide, as they provide a tangible solution to a fundamental human need while respecting cultural values associated with water.

Moreover, cultural perceptions of technology and innovation may influence the reception of Filter Caps in different regions. In some areas, embracing innovative solutions may be met with enthusiasm and seen as a sign of progress, while in others, there may be skepticism or resistance to new technologies. Understanding these cultural nuances is crucial for effectively implementing and promoting Filter Caps in diverse communities.

Additionally, the availability and accessibility of safe drinking water vary across cultures and regions due to factors such as infrastructure, geography, and socioeconomic conditions. In regions where access to clean water is limited, Filter Caps can have a transformative impact on public health, economic development, and overall well-being. However, cultural attitudes towards water management, hygiene practices, and community cooperation must be considered to ensure the successful adoption and utilization of Filter Caps.

Overall, by acknowledging and addressing cultural, national, and regional nuances, Filter Caps can effectively fulfill its mission of providing safe drinking water to vulnerable communities worldwide while respecting and aligning with local cultural values and practices.

Technological influences: Thanks to this technology, we were inspired to develop a filter that is 100% biodegradable and utilizes natural raw materials. We employed Stereolithography (SLA) printing, which utilizes a photopolymerization process to solidify layers of biodegradable liquid resin sensitive to ultraviolet light. This method is renowned for its high precision and quality finish.

Context: In Colombia, over 3.7 million people lack access to safe drinking water, with particularly acute challenges in regions like La Guajira, where extreme heat and limited infrastructure exacerbate the issue. Globally, 2.2 billion lack access to safe water.

Limitations, restrictions, regulations: Through INVIMA, we investigated the parameters that the device must comply. Understanding the regulations, we conducted laboratory tests to measure the quality of the water where we obtained a result of 0.1% over the 0.3% required by Colombian regulations to be safe to drink.

Budget: 11.280 USD

Filter Caps transforms a universal bottle cap into a portable water treatment plant, providing a simple yet effective solution to the global water crisis using innovative technology and unique materials. Designed with a universal PCO 28 mm thread, these caps are compatible with any bottle, ensuring scalability and accessibility in areas underserved by more complex filtration systems. Filter Caps are practical, accessible, affordable, and 100% biodegradable, making them a sustainable option.

The development process began with extensive user research, including interviews and market analysis, to tailor the design to specific water purification needs. Studies in fluid physics and chemical components followed, ensuring the device’s effectiveness. After confirming its functionality, the aesthetics and materials were refined. Opting for 3D printing as the manufacturing technique, we ensured compliance with necessary regulations. Filter Caps have the potential to revolutionize the water treatment industry by providing a cost-effective and sustainable solution.

December 2022: Discovery made regarding the adaptability of 2 lids to generate filtration.

January 2023: Commencement of exhaustive research on product development.

February 2023: Initiation of the design phase and physical-mechanical study of the filter.

March 2023: Fabrication of initial prototypes begins, alongside qualitative checks of the product. Additionally, research into biodegradable materials and technologies commences.

April 2023: Implementation of chemical component research, applied with FDM printing prototypes. Analysis of filtration times and fluid physics values in a compact size.

May 2023: Preliminary results obtained, prompting adjustments to the device for air vent application. Further investigation into new components and chemical formulas for water purification and mineralization.

July 2023: After extensive research, the exact formula meeting parameters is found. Adoption of a new SLA manufacturing formula improves quality and reduces costs.

August 2023: Second prototype development with newly categorized chemical components. Testing of the device with these materials.

September 2023: Optimal results achieved after thorough analysis of filtration times and quantity of filtered liters.

October 2023: Implementation of testing protocol in the field. Texturized finishes resembling a water droplet are generated. Biodegradable materials like sweet corn extract resin and naturally extracted chemical components are used.

November 2023: Completion of parametric design with textured matte finishes, presenting the product as an effective, practical, premium, and affordable solution.

January 2024: Application of the second verification phase to assess efficiency and adaptability of the filter.

February 2024: Further characterization of arid regions in Colombia.

March 2024: Expansion of testing to Argentina and Brazil, yielding optimal results in the verification phase.

This detailed timeline reflects the various stages and processes of product development, from initial research to expansion and application in other countries.

Filter Caps originates from the design of a simple universal bottle cap, purifying and mineralizing water with just a single movement. Its compact dimensions of 6x4cm and light weight 24g enables it to reach places other filter systems cannot.

Its interior comprises metals, minerals, and natural substances, all enclosed in a 100% biodegradable cornstarch casing that leaves no carbon footprint.

The type of printing is Stereolithography (SLA), which uses a photopolymerization process to solidify layers of biodegradable liquid resin sensitive to ultraviolet light, which is known for its high precision and high quality finish.

By programming from STL software we can manufacture 500 units per day, calculating weight so that there is no material waste.

During the development stage of our additive manufacturing filter, we've successfully produced 1000 units, benefiting 10,000 families. The process begins with laboratory studies of component quality to measure water quality. Subsequently, physical tests include fatigue, impact, tolerance measurements, and lifecycle assessments, along with stress simulations. In the second phase, we conduct qualitative checks characterizing regions facing water issues, studying adaptability, efficiency, and user experience analysis. This comprehensive approach ensures our filters meet both technical standards and community needs effectively.

The goal is to deliver 1million filters by 2025, aiming to decrease gastrointestinal diseases and create an economic impact due to their lower cost compared to medical treatments. The project's scalability is evident, with over 10,000 individuals in Colombia benefiting to date and plans to reach countries like Brazil, Argentina, and other regions. The initiative's industry relevance is notable as it addresses critical public health issues. To date, over 10mil people have been provided with safe water, 300,000 liters of potable water have been recovered, and an estimated 1,825,000 liters are expected to be filtered annually. Significant investment has been received, supporting the project's growth and expansion and reflecting confidence in its ability to address the water crisis and improve the quality of life for millions of people globally.