5 replies to this topic

[CoolColJ]

I came cross these Antspace nests on Ebay a few weeks back and now RobJ has looked at it.

These nests are a whole new approach and are modular

 

Talk about spacey

 

 

 

Edited by CoolColJ, November 28 2018 - 2:12 PM.

[drtrmiller]

I, too, experimented with connectors like this starting around 4 years ago, and spent a great deal of time working on a similar modular system in early 2016.

 

While it is a great idea, in theory, ultimately, given the fickle nature of 3D printing, this manufacturer is going to have a notoriously difficult time ensuring that pieces sold today fit the same way as pieces sold at a later date.  If you look at their design in contrast to mine (below), you'll notice that their female connectors are inset into the sidewall of the formicary, whereas mine are outset.  The result is that their connectors will need to be designed to fit tightly, but not too tightly, because that sidewall is going to be quite rigid and won't flex to accomodate an oversized male connector.  They have almost no latitude for an oversized or undersized connector component, from the looks of it.

 

It would kind of defeat the whole idea of a modular, expandable system if you bought expansion pieces a year down the road which were just slightly too loose, allowing ants to escape, or so tight that they couldn't fit the pieces you already had.  That's one of my primary concerns.

 

Edited by drtrmiller, November 28 2018 - 4:00 PM.

[FSTP]

Is ByFormica  only offering feeders and nector at the moment? Or are you/will you be selling enclosures or formicariums. I seem to rmemebr having an order with you or some kind of arrangment? I can't remember. Let me know if I'm remembering incorectly.

[ctantkeeper]

I came cross these Antspace nests on Ebay a few weeks back and now RobJ has looked at it.

These nests are a whole new approach and are modular

 

Talk about spacey

 

 

 

Where did you find them btw on ebay. I would like to purchase a couple for Christmas.

[Kalidas]

I wonder if the larger one(for the larger species) would work for leaf cutter species(like acromyrmex Versicolor) or if it's still too small for the fungus... Probably too small still.

[CoolColJ]

Where did you find them btw on ebay. I would like to purchase a couple for Christmas.

There is a link to their site in the Youtube videos description, plus a discount code