In my one of my fourth-year classes, Introduction to Computer-Aided Technology, I gained a comprehensive understanding of 3D printing's history and methodology. Through hands-on assignments and a culminating project involving designing and assembling a roomba, I honed my 3D modeling and printing skills. This project marked my first official class assignment in building a physical product, fostering teamwork and task delegation among my classmates. Managing setbacks firsthand, I learned to navigate challenges without compromising teamwork or project goals. This experience instilled valuable leadership skills applicable to both technical and non-technical roles in the future. 

In this class, I found myself applying skills and concepts from previous courses for the first time. I aimed to be a reliable team member that ensured everyone felt confident in their respective tasks. When setbacks arose, I quickly found effective solutions to keep us on track. I delegated tasks based on teammates' strengths and offered assistance when needed. I sought their feedback in return to optimize my own work and I kept everyone informed on the 3D printing process. Learning to delegate effectively in our project has equipped me with important skills for future project management roles of all kinds.

• Modeled the roomba main body and motor holders using Onshape

• Operated 3D printers for printing parts

• Verified the fit of all components and compartments using calibers

• Managed wiring to prevent interference with other electrical and mechanical components

• Coordinated with two team members to obtain materials and meet deadlines

• Assisted in testing and refining the roomba over 30 times as it manuvered through a maze

Our requirements included having the roomba turn after bumping into a wall, activated by pressing one of two buttons on either side. However, due to inconsistent manufacturing, several groups faced issues with button activation, including ours. After consulting with other groups and experimenting with various methods, we discovered that the walls were shifting due to impact from the roomba, preventing the buttons from being pressed. We resolved this by adding supports to stabilize walls, resulting in successfully completing the maze. This taught me that even when issues seem to be from one source, it is important to look at the bigger picture to find the cause. 

The project encompassed 3D modeling, coding, and circuit board assembly. Upon forming the group, we collectively assessed our strengths and weaknesses relative to the project's tasks. Recognizing the importance of each member's contribution, I diclosed my challenges with coding electrical circuits, opting to focus on 3D modeling and printing tasks where I felt more confident. My group agreed that I would handle these aspects while the others managed coding and electrical tasks. By leveraging our strengths, we completed the project nearly a week ahead of schedule and achieved full points for our roomba. 

I aimed for my group members to derive value from the project without feeling constrained by their abilities and contributions. We assessed our past experiences to identify applicable skills for the project. Both group members possessed coding expertise, with one having internship experience in circuit board assembly. We allocated tasks based on individual strengths, while keeping in mind balance so as to not overload anyone. Despite task divisions, being mechanical engineers, we were all familiar with the technical aspects required for the project and offered mutual support to each other as needed.

Despite working on separate tasks, we aimed for a final product that collectively satisfied all of us. For my part, I regularly shared design screenshots and sought feedback on shape and dimensions. After 3D printing and assembly, I shared progress photos with group members and welcomed feedback on how componenets were placed. Adjustments to the main body design were made to accommodate circuit board sizes, based on a suggestion from a group member based on how the boards were wired together to aid in wire management. I also assisted in coding tasks by researching specific commands on GitHub and sourcing from other groups when needed.

While printing roomba parts, we encountered challenges with four 3D printers shared among 80+ students. The extensive 12 hour print time for the main body meant any necessary fixes would require an additional day to find an available printer and reprint. In response, I adjusted my schedule to start prints later in the evening, allowing them to be completed the following morning and leaving printers available for others during the day. Despite the late nights spent in the printing room, this strategy enabled me to complete and continue supporting my team. Even though my group members owned 3D printers, I recognize that by voluntarily taking on the 3D printing tasks I should do my best to complete them without disturbing the spread of work. 

I developed stronger abilities in task discussion and delegation to ensure my team members can contribute effectively to our shared goals. I can adapt to diverse backgrounds and skill sets within the team, optimizing each member's role to suit the project's needs. Through experiencing setbacks firsthand, I learned to navigate challenges without compromising team productivity. These skills are valuable for both management and support roles in future projects. This experience has also deepened my understanding of my strengths and weaknesses as a mechanical engineer, allowing me to confidently contribute my best work in future endeavors. By knowing where I excel, I can support both myself and future managers in acheiving project success beyond my assinged tasks.