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Seagrass Gun

Turning a seagrass seed planting concept into a reliable tool for divers, for the Ocean Conservation Trust.

Client
Ocean Conservation Trust
Materials
316 stainless steel, machined and 3D-printed
Outcome
Two final units delivered and now in use
Four seagrass guns lined up on a boat deck beside dive tanks and fins.

Challenge

An existing seagrass seed planting concept needed turning into a reliable product for divers. It had to work the way divers actually use it underwater, and survive long-term exposure to salt water.

The seagrass gun: a clear seed chamber with a black T-handle and grips.
The seagrass gun in use on the seabed among seagrass.

What I did

I refined the CAD, integrating a new adjustable plunge mechanism, and built the prototypes, sourcing components locally and from China to stay on budget.

I designed the parts for 3D printing and machining in 316 stainless steel, then optimised the design, replacing printed plastic parts that weren't durable enough with 3D-printed stainless steel. I met the client at key stages to review progress and agree changes.

Two people in waterproof survival suits on a boat, holding the seagrass gun.
The seagrass gun standing on a pebble beach by the sea.

Outcome

Two final units were delivered and are now in use.