Blog #7 -- The Future -- May 30th, 2023

    Throughout this project, it has always felt as if we could get so much more done with more time. In the case that I decide to continue the project into the summer, here are some thoughts as to what I would do with more time. 
    First a quick reflection on this portion of the project so far. I ultimately view all of the 3D printing, designing, and setbacks as inevitable. This sort of prototyping is how it needed to be done. There would've been no way to predict all of the different connectors and design details that needed to go into this project, especially coming from a very limited engineering background. Even just having this prototype model is incredibly helpful. It gives me a tangible idea of how everything would fit together and a much better sense of the materials I would need. In many ways, the prototype was absolutely necessary, because to be quite honest, guessing what materials you need when some couplings cost upwards of $200 per unit isn't the best move.   
    With the future of this project in mind, I have a few thoughts. First, I would absolutely use a sheet metal tube instead of acrylic. The acrylic was cool and all, but it stressed me out when the tubing cracked and strained when we were drilling into it. Additionally, it is a rather inflexible material and is mostly for show. Secondly, I would probably attempt to make a lot more parts out of metal. 3D printing is cool and all for prototyping, but when you're trying to run the shaft at 15k rpm, almost circular doesn't quite cut it. The plastic was also rather brittle in some cases and was difficult to attach to other parts. Third, I'd seek more advice from actual engineers, considering a total of three hours with one became one of the greatest successes of our project. Some other smaller thoughts are that I'd definitely want to source a better barometer and an anemometer. Both of these devices would've been nice to have to measure incremental success, rather than a binary success or failure. Gaskets and sealant will also probably become critical. Overall, I probably will take a break from this project, but you might catch me at the Think[box] this summer with some pieces of a jet engine.

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