UC CEAS Mechanical Engineering Technology
Final Project:
Introductory Poster
Our final project was another first-time experience for me, but I loved every second of it. It started out with a unique way of brainstorming that I had never done before. We were tasked with solving a real problem, but our solution didn’t have to necessarily be realistic or attainable right now. Normally, when I’m faced with a problem, I view it through the lens of the here and now, rather than through the lens of the future. It’s safe to say I really enjoyed this new approach to thinking about problems and it got me excited for the rest of the project.
Recycled shredded cardboard that we used as the main component for our bowls
Blended up goop that would then be molded into a bowl shape
Our initial ideas really sparked inspiration within each team member, and this allowed us to bring our idea to life over the course of the second half of the semester. Different people brought their different skill sets to the table and we were able to designate roles to each person allowing them to focus on one aspect of the project. Reflora, the name of our fictional brand, is all about repurposing trash and turning it into treasure. This idea was new and unique to me, but I felt like it filled a special niche in our world that needed to be filled. It’s sad to see how many takeout containers are just tossed out the window and left behind for someone else to pick up, or for them to break down over hundreds of years. What’s the point of having a single-use container that will last longer than the lifetime of a human? That's where our idea comes into play.
Bowl mold with the shredded cardboard paste in it
Final bowl drying
Our final "rough" bowl
It was truly inspirational to see how a small idea like ours was able to come to fruition through the hard work and dedication of each team member. The possibility of this being implemented felt real and I could definitely see companies in the future using a product like ours to help out bees and help reduce pollution. It was also inspirational to see everyone else's presentations and see how many incredible ideas were able to come out of such a small class. Because of these projects, I’ll definitely be able to see things differently in the future and be able to approach problems in a new way. I’m very thankful we had the opportunity to present to some special guests as well as have the opportunity to have work up in the Reed gallery within the DAAP building. As I mentioned earlier, I thoroughly enjoyed this project and will do what I can to take more classes that challenge me to think about problems in new and interesting ways.
Final presentation set up
Overall, I'm very happy I took this course this semester. I was able to connect with people from different backgrounds, learn a lot more about bees than I knew I could, and learn a variety of new ways to approach problem solving. I think all of this information will come in handy in the future and it will allow me to open doors I might not have been able to open without the information provided in this course. Thank you Dr. Gaskins and Professor Sheth for an incredible semester!