Research pathway: 3D Printing

In the field of engineering there are multiple ways that it could benefit from 3D printing such as:

•  Reduces prototyping costs.

• Speeds up prototype production.

• Supports on-demand manufacturing.

• Reduces material waste compared to traditional methods.

• Simplifies production of low-volume parts.

• Provides hands-on learning for engineering education.

For these reasons, we chose 3D printing as our research pathway topic focusing particularly on the Bambu A1 mini.

In the article “Bambu Lab A1 Mini Overview”, Bambu Lab presents the A1 Mini as an innovative 3D printer that is designed for accessibility, speed and ease of use catering to users of all skill levels. The article also highlights the compact size & advanced features of the printer that helps streamline the printing process, making it more convenient and efficient.

The feature of automatic calibration particularly caught my attention, as it eliminates the need for manual adjustments, making the printer more user-friendly. The optional AMS Lite system allows for multi-color printing, which gives me more creative freedom in my prints. Additionally, vibration control and active flow rate compensation ensure smooth operation. These features make the A1 Mini a practical choice for beginner hobbyists like myself, offering a reliable and efficient 3D printing experience.

Using the dewey's model of reflection to improve myself

Reality: I have trouble focusing while studying.

Cause: Frequent distractions & easy access to my phone

Effects/Results: Difficulty retaining information when studying and more time wasted.

Goal: Improve focus during study sessions.

Possible change: Remove distractions while studying.

Solution: Study in a distraction-free environment for one week and track focus levels.

Outcome of change: Evaluate whether focus and productivity improve.

Self Introduction Letter

 Dear Professor Blackstone, 

My name is Benjamin, and I previously studied Aerospace Engineering at Nanyang Polytechnic before transitioning to Civil Engineering here at SIT. My decision to pursue a career in engineering stems from a long-standing interest in problem-solving and hands-on tinkering, which have always been passions of mine.

One of my strengths is my ability to communicate with clarity and conciseness. I believe in getting straight to the point, which enables me to convey ideas effectively and avoid unnecessary ambiguity. That said, I recognise that this can sometimes come across as abrupt or blunt, and I am actively working to strike a balance to ensure my communication is both effective and empathetic.

What sets me apart is that I am dyslexic. While this posed challenges during my early years, it has also shaped my resilience and taught me to approach learning and problem-solving in creative ways. Over time, I’ve developed strategies to manage it effectively, and it now offers me a unique perspective that I bring to my work and interactions.

For this module, my primary goal is to enhance my presentation and public speaking skills. I am eager to learn techniques that will help me communicate more effectively in front of an audience and present my ideas with confidence.

Sincerely,
Benjamin

Week 1 discussion

 "Developing excellent communication skills is absolutely essential to effective leadership. The leader must be able to share knowledge and ideas to transmit a sense of urgency and enthusiasm to others. If a leader can't get a message across clearly and motivate others to act on it, then having a message doesn't even matter."

Gilbert Amelio, former President and CEO of National Semiconductor Corp

John agrees with the statement as he’s had experience with a group leader that was unable to communicate effectively thus slowing down the rate of progress at which his project could progress.

I agree with the statement, as I believe communication is key for a team to complete any work. If a team leader does not properly convey what is expected of the team for a project, the members will not be able to work together effectively.