Before we started this project we spent the first few days of class learning about engineering, how to sketch accurately, and the common ethic standards that occur in a professional work environment. After we had become knowledgable on these topics each student was assigned to bring in an object that could be broken apart so we can observe the parts inside and how they work together. We drew sketches of each part as well as created a flow chart to describe how the device works.
Afterwards, our group of four selected to further our research on a LE headlamp that we had brought in. We were instructed to both research and make a presentation on how the headlamp is used (functional analysis), the materials used (material analysis), how its made (manufactural analysis), and how the different parts in the device work together (structural analysis). Below is both our research on the four topics as well as our final presentation.
Research / Presentation
Presentation
Below is our presentation for our project
Content
Schematic Sketch: a drawing of an object with a scale, labels, and sometimes colors for better visuals LEDS: light-emitting diode is a two-lead semiconductor light source Semiconductor: material has an electrical conductivity value falling between that of a conductor and an insulator Circuit Board: printed circuit board mechanically supports and electrically connects electronic components or electrical components using conductive tracks, pads and other features Resistor: resistor is a passive two-terminal electrical component that implements electrical resistance as a circuit element Capacitor: capacitor is a passive two-terminal electrical component that stores potential energy in an electrical field Electricity: a form of energy resulting from the existence of charged particles Battery: device consisting of one or more electrochemical cells with external connections provided to power electrical devices: Oxidation Reactions: chemical reaction in which the oxidation states of atoms are changed Cathode: negatively charged electrode by which electrons enter an electrical device Anode: positively charged electrode by which the electrons leave a device Electrons: stable subatomic particle with a charge of negative electricity Photons: particle representing a quantum of light or other electromagnetic radiation Elastic Fabric: a synthetic fabric which stretches Plastic: generic term used in the case of polymeric material that may contain other substances to improve performance or reduce costs Engineering: creative application of science, mathematical methods, and empirical evidence to the innovation, design, construction, operation and maintenance of structures, machines, materials, devices, systems, processes, and organizations Engineering Ethics: 1) Public Safety 2)Work in only specialized skill 3)Public Statements must be truthful 4)Act for each employer and client in a truth and faithful way 5) Avoid deceitful acts 6)Conduct yourself honestly, respectfully, ethically, and lawfully to enhance the profession Systematic Approach: design philosophy with 8 steps 1)Identity problem 2)Generate many concepts 3) Select a concept 4)Detail the design 5)Design defence 6)Manufacture and test 7)Evaluate design 8)Prepare final design report
Reflection
For the first project of senior year I was thoroughly surprised on how smooth the research and presentation went. Two things that I did very well during this project was that I had good chemistry with my group as well as I was able to think on my feet in tough situations very well. My group has all known each other for 4 years now and it showed by the high quality of work we produced and the efficiency that we did it at. We were all able to communicate well and bounce ideas off one another in a seamless fashion. I felt that during the project, all of the ideas and contributions we all made well noted and meshed together to make a great final product. I also felt that personality I was able to think on feet well. The day that our group presented we only had half of our group members. This put a severe amount of pressure on both Eliza and I to do our group mates slides as well as our own. We both did an exceptional job and were able to present our reverse engineering project at a very high level.
Although there was many ups for me during this project I still need to work on my ability to stay on task for the entire period as well as taking a more reclusive role for future projects. I typically try to be in charge when we do group projects because I feel like I am most beneficial in that position. At the beginning of the project I tried to take the leadership role, but quickly realized that by taking a back seat it would be better for the group. I have also constantly struggled to stay fully attentive during the whole class because I get distracted very easily and it causes me to get off task. For the next project I will have more self discipline and check in with myself constantly during the period so I am able to use my time wisely and produce my best work.