Project Summary
My project of creating a model Stirling engine came from a multitude of interests. I’ve always been interested in the idea of designing and creating something, which is the prime focus of 3D printing. 3D printing caught my eye not only because of its interesting complexities but for its gradual relevancy in the outside world. I’ve always been interested in technology as well, so all these things combined into the project that you see here now. Although I know a lot of things about certain technologies, when starting my project, I had absolutely no prior experience in utilizing CAD or 3D printing. I had only heard of its possibilities and the few good creations people have utilized. However, that alone was enough to attract me. Thanks to people and support such as Mr. Wong, I learned a lot of positives and unavoidable negatives concerning 3D printing and CAD. Although I had wanted to physically print something out, the best I could do was create a digital model given the situation we are in and the big period of time that one usually needs for 3D printing. This is one of many goals that weren’t met, for initially, I had wanted to create something much bigger. I had wanted to combine even more of my interests within my project, such as my curiosity in vehicles. However, this would have been ridiculously expensive and taken too much time to produce. It might be apparent now that my biggest challenge was balancing my ambition with the time given and the reasonable amount of progress I would make. Luckily for me, the Computer-aided design class increased my proficiency and allowed me to use as many ideas as I could have within the time allotted. Although there wasn’t enough time to create a physical 3D product, which is what I would have preferred, I’m still thankful for the support I gained and the progress I was able to make in the few months given.
