Lantern Project: Built Lantern

Here is the final product. As planned, the bottom portion of the container holds the electrical materials. The light bulb is attached to the top of the bottom container, just below the water. The top portion is filled with water, and as seen in the image, works to diffuse the light beautifully. While constructing my lantern I ran into multiple issues. The first issue I had was creating the circuit. I wanted to extend it from the basic three pieces (the bulb, resistor, and battery). However, choosing the correct wire conductor to connect these pieces to was difficult. The first ‘wire’ I used, ended up burning my fingers, most likely because it was not made of the appropriate metal. The second, was too thick to manipulate, and being made of aluminum, and another undetermined material, it did not conduct the electricity well. Paper clips worked very well. I used the paper clips to make a simple circuit and switch. 

The switch is just a simple ‘L’ shaped piece of paper clip wire, which swivels over and hooks into a little notch. The second issue I ran into was being able to fit the circuit materials in the small compartment. It was difficult to maneuver the small space, however, with patience I did so successfully. I faced the third issue while constructing the water containing portion of the lantern. because on of the plexiglas walls was cracked, water was seeping out rapidly, and I needed to seal the leak quickly. I also needed to make sure that the top was tightly sealed over the water. Despite many challenges, I was able to produce to produce a functioning lantern. We will see how long it lasts!