Experience
Computer-Aided Design
Finite Element Analysis
Finite Element Analysis
While on the team, I gained a lot of experience using Siemens NX. I also gained experience with Siemens Teamcenter. Using these two applications, I spent hundreds of hours working on the design of the external structure of our tunnel boring machine.
Finite Element Analysis
Finite Element Analysis
Finite Element Analysis
UMD Loop also introduced me to finite element analysis. During the design of our tunnel boring machine, I used NASTRAN frequently to gain a better understanding of how my design would react under our predicted loads.
Structural Analysis
Finite Element Analysis
Structural Analysis
While on the team, I was able to take the things I was learning in the class room and apply them to a real world engineering project. During the design of our tunnel boring machine, I did hand calculations to find the max Von-Mises stress values parts would endure.
Mechanical Design
Mechanical Design
Structural Analysis
Not a single person on our team had knowledge of tunnel boring machines prior to starting this competition. I found that I really enjoyed designing a system from scratch and seeing it come to life.
Material Research
Mechanical Design
Material Research
While designing the exterior of our tunnel boring machine, I had to research different materials that would provide a high enough yield strength, but allow for the manufacturing process to be possible. Ultimately, the design was made with A53 Steel.