Pre-Research
It was extremely difficult to conjure up ideas for this project. We were given a very broad subject and no examples. However, we actually were given examples, however very few. I looked at past students who did this project and also at random professionally made clocks on the internet. Additionally, I searched Thingiverse for any halfway decent ideas that I run with, but everything I did end up coming up with was not very doable in the time frame I was given. It made me sort of sad to think of the things I could do but just could not. Eventually though I came up with a rather simple design consisting of a 3D printed clock body, a laser engraved clock face (I could express some creativity there in the design) and decal decorated edges.
How I did it.
What I Learned
I learned a lot. Leading up to this project I learned how to use the 3D printer, laser, vinyl cutter, router and mill. Additionally, I also learned the ins and outs of Inventor, Illustrator, Master Cut, UCP , and other software that were used in setting up the various machines. Although in this project I only used the 3D printer, laser, and vinyl cutter(along with all the software associated with those machines), I still feel like it was worth mentioning them as they helped me gain perseverance that I needed in order to get through this really hard project. During this project, it was mostly review on how to use the machines and software that I had previously learned how to do; however, that does not mean I did not learn anything new. For one, I learned how to change the 3D printer's filament, something I had not known how to do previously. I also learned how to reflect shapes on Illustrator as well as ungroup them. Additionally, I learned that if the vinyl cutter does not work, ask Sean Paul. He helped me A LOT(thanks Sean Paul). But that's not all I learned. I learned better and deeper lessons in this class that other classes failed to teach me. I learned that I should try to problem solve on my own before running to get a teacher, to be confident in myself and not always afraid of mistakes because that slows you down, to not be scared to ask other people(ex. peers/fellow students) questions even if you may look slightly stupid, to persevere, to manage my time, to be creative, to pay attention to detail, to make proper measurements the first time around, and, most importantly, to have fun when attempting a challenge. I really enjoyed this class, and for anyone reading this(because I don't know why you are if you aren't Ms. Proctor), then take my advice: move to Waunakee(if you don't already live here) and take this course. Its hard, but its definitely worth it.