Objective 3


Demonstrate the ability to evaluate material and build technique options during the creation of products and their prototypes.

USS Pennsylvania (SSBN-735) Door Plaque

The USS Pennsylvania (SSBN-735) Door Plaque was meticulously crafted using modern digital design tools like Fusion 360 and Meshmixer for creating a detailed digital image, followed by 3D printing the prototype. Traditional mold-making techniques with silicon were then employed to replicate the design in Smooth-Cast 325 mixed with bronze powder, nickel-silver, gold mica powder, and wood powder, resulting in an emblem of unparalleled prestige and artistry.

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In the realm of innovative craftsmanship, the creation of products and their prototypes entails a meticulous evaluation of materials and the strategic construction of techniques. One such remarkable product is the USS Pennsylvania (SSBN-735) CO's Door Plaque, a symbol of distinction and authority aboard the vessel. This emblematic insignia epitomizes the seamless amalgamation of artistry and engineering, employing the optimal use of digital design tools and 3D printing technology, alongside traditional mold-making methods.

 The genesis of this prestigious Door Plaque demanded an ardent assessment of techniques, ensuring the realization of a design that exudes elegance and precision. Utilizing modern digital design software, Fusion 360, and Meshmixer, I embarked on the journey of creating a detailed digital image of the USS Pennsylvania (SSBN-735) emblem. This sophisticated process allowed for meticulous fine-tuning and customization, guaranteeing that every contour and nuance of the design was perfected before proceeding to the physical creation.

 Once the digital design reached the pinnacle of craftsmanship, the next step involved harnessing the power of 3D printing technology. With the aid of a resin 3D printer, the digital image was transformed into a tangible three-dimensional prototype. The marriage of design finesse and cutting-edge printing technology ensured that the USS Pennsylvania's emblem was brought to life with unparalleled accuracy, setting the stage for the subsequent stages of production.

 To translate the 3D printed prototype into the final plaque, traditional mold-making techniques came into play. Using silicon as the molding material, I skillfully crafted a mold that mirrored every intricate facet of the 3D printed prototype. This mold served as the bedrock of the plaque's replication, preserving the fine details with exceptional fidelity.

 With the mold ready, the grand finale of the crafting process commenced. The chosen material, Smooth-Cast 325 mixed with bronze powder, gold mica powder, and wood powder, was skillfully poured into the mold, adopting the form and essence of the USS Pennsylvania emblem. The expertise of the artisans in controlling the pouring process ensured that the plaque emerged flawless, with each element perfectly integrated.

 The USS Pennsylvania (SSBN-735) CO's Door Plaque stands as a testament to the harmonious union of modern digital design tools and age-old molding techniques. The meticulous evaluation of materials, combined with the strategic use of Fusion 360 and Meshmixer to create a digital image, culminating in the brilliance of 3D printing and mold-making, has birthed an insignia of unparalleled prestige and artistry.

 In conclusion, the journey of crafting the USS Pennsylvania (SSBN-735) CO's Door Plaque exemplifies the power of discerning technique options and embracing innovative technologies. Through the integration of digital design tools, 3D printing technology, and traditional mold-making methods, this emblem has become more than a mere plaque; it is a testament to the unwavering dedication and ingenuity of artisans and engineers. The craftsmanship of this insignia shall forever serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations, a timeless reminder of the boundless possibilities that emerge when creativity and cutting-edge techniques converge.


The Rack Track

The Rack Track is an innovative product that showcases the skillful combination of materials, such as Polycarbonate for resilience, Thermoplastic Polyurethane for flexibility, and laser-cut 5052 H32 Aluminum for strength and precision. The product's assembly employs steel fasteners and dowels, demonstrating a keen focus on durability and reliable construction.

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In the realm of product development, the process of crafting innovative creations and their prototypes is an intricate dance between evaluating materials and skillfully constructing techniques. For the sake of illustration, let us delve into the world of a fascinating product known as "The Rack Track."

At the heart of "The Rack Track" lies a brilliant combination of various materials that merge strength with flexibility. The plastic movable components boast the resilience of Polycarbonate, an engineering marvel renowned for its toughness and impact resistance. This choice of material ensures that the movable parts can endure the stresses of repetitive motion and external forces, rendering them capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use.

Moreover, the ingenuity of the design extends to the flexible attachment part that firmly grips onto the rack. This flexible aspect is meticulously constructed using Thermoplastic Polyurethane, a versatile material known for its exceptional elasticity and durability. By employing this material, the creators of "The Rack Track" have ensured a secure yet adaptable connection between the product and the rack, accommodating variations in size and dimensions while maintaining optimal performance.

The track, which forms the backbone of this innovative creation, is skillfully laser-cut from 5052 H32 Aluminum. The selection of this material demonstrates a profound understanding of the balance between strength and weight. Laser-cutting provides a precise and controlled process, allowing for intricate designs to be effortlessly realized in the aluminum sheet. This ensures that "The Rack Track" not only exhibits outstanding structural integrity but also remains easily maneuverable and practical in diverse applications.

Assembling "The Rack Track" into its final form necessitates a judicious selection of fastening elements. Here, I employ steel fasteners and dowels, an engineering decision that showcases astute foresight. Steel, being known for its robustness and corrosion resistance, guarantees a secure and enduring union between the various components, ensuring the longevity of the product and minimizing the risk of loosening or detachment during operation.

The process of bringing "The Rack Track" to life showcases a remarkable capacity for evaluating diverse materials and technique options. The choice of Polycarbonate for the movable parts underscores the need for resilience and impact resistance. Thermoplastic Polyurethane is selected with an understanding of the requirement for flexibility without compromising on stability. The use of laser-cut 5052 H32 Aluminum demonstrates a desire for strength and lightness while maintaining precision. Lastly, the employment of steel fasteners and dowels emphasizes the quest for durability and reliable assembly.

In conclusion, the development of "The Rack Track" serves as a prime example of astute material evaluation and technique amalgamation during the creation of innovative products and their prototypes. The judicious selection of Polycarbonate, Thermoplastic Polyurethane, laser-cut 5052 H32 Aluminum, steel fasteners, and dowels all reflect the careful consideration of key attributes needed for an exceptional product. By blending strength, flexibility, durability, and ease of assembly, "The Rack Track" emerges as a testament to the art of product development, seamlessly fusing engineering ingenuity with practical utility.