Monday

I started the week by spray painting the extruders in the morning. This step was essential to ensure the extruders had a smooth, professional finish, which would improve both their appearance and functionality. I arrived on campus at noon and spent the rest of the day assembling the prototype. The process involved carefully fitting together various parts I had previously printed and prepared. It was meticulous work, requiring patience and precision, but seeing the prototype take shape was incredibly rewarding.

Tuesday

The day began with the weekly REU meeting, where we discussed poster drafts with other REU members. This meeting was beneficial as it provided an opportunity to receive constructive feedback and improve our presentations. After the meeting, I headed to my lab and focused on designing a new mount for the prototype. This involved using CAD software to create a design that would securely hold the extruders in place while allowing for smooth operation. It took several iterations to get the design right, but I was pleased with the final version.

 

Wednesday

I dedicated the day to testing the extrusion process. This involved rewriting the printer’s code and manipulating the gcode settings to achieve optimal extrusion. The process was filled with trial and error; each attempt provided insights into what adjustments were needed. By carefully observing the results and making precise changes, I gradually improved the extrusion process. It was a challenging but educational experience, teaching me a lot about the intricacies of 3D printing and coding.

Thursday

My focus for the day was preparing my slides for a lab presentation scheduled for the next day. I spent the morning drafting and organizing the slides to ensure they clearly conveyed the key points of my project. In the afternoon, my mentor provided valuable guidance, helping me refine the content and improve my presentation skills. This preparation was crucial in boosting my confidence and ensuring that I was well-prepared for the presentation.

Friday

In the morning, I rehearsed my presentation with my mentor. We went through the slides several times, making final adjustments to ensure everything was polished and cohesive. During the lab presentation, I felt well-prepared and confident. I presented my work clearly and effectively, handling the Q&A session with ease. After the presentations, we celebrated the departure of a postdoc lab mate who is heading to Tulane as an assistant professor. We had a small toast to congratulate him on his new position, which was a nice way to end the week on a positive note.

This week was packed with hands-on work, collaboration, and learning. Each day presented new challenges and accomplishments, deepening my interest in 3D printing and research. It was a fulfilling week that reinforced my passion for science and innovation.

Thank you for reading,
Brandon Espinoza.