First Semester Final!

School comes to an end at last. However, this is just a separation from the educational institutions for about 3 weeks, so that each student might partake in all the holidays have to offer. As such, this will be the final post for some time. Anyway, on to business in explaining what we have learned, what went well this semester, and what could have gone better. There is no essential question of this week.

This semester, I have learned quite a multitude of things. First, I learned basic shop safety and how to operate varying tools. Next, it was MIG welding, using angled iron and sheet metal to construct a grill, two-dimensional and three-dimensional structures on AutoCAD along with other rudimentary skills, learning the steps to make CNC Router art on wood, the usefulness and properties of different metals, how to design teardrop trailers and then turn them into reality, and finally how to use the plasma cutter to create fire pits and other metal art. And even then, I have only scratched the surface of all that we learn day-to-day that occurs due to trial and error.

In my opinion, it is a good choice to look at what went well first so you might not be discouraged when you see how good you did compared to poor. As it is, what went well this year was all the personal progress I made in class and the fun I had. I got to try almost all of the major tools of the shop, minus two. I also gained useful muscle memory is grinding, welding, metal cutting, and some intimate AutoCAD knowledge. I also had fun while doing all of this most days. Not all went to plan of course, though.

Next is the negative aspect of all the work completed, or lack of. What went rather poorly is the projects I myself attempted (or my group) did not always get completed. The grill was a rather poor attempt for us n00bz to create an intricate piece of metal art when we weren't even good enough. And due to several complications of my own fault, the CNC Router piece I started did not get finished as plan. I hope things will go better next time.

Anyway, all that has happened is in the past and with next semester, I can start fresh and new. I look forward to the break and what will come next year (2015, of course. Not a new school year).

Dr. Nebula, signing off!

Week #15 -- The Ring of Fire

Another week dies as fast as it was born. I have been assigned to a companion project rather than the teardrop trailer, which was something I was aiming for. My project, the metal fire rings, involves a combination of AutoCAD and cooperation with a small group of my peers. This week was focused on committing work and heart to these projects, with an essential question to boot.

Monday centered around a challenge (we have a lot of these) for the class. We tried to figure out how to optimise a 10-foot by 4-foot piece of 16 gauge sheet metal to make the most fire rings. We all set to work and found it best to make each fire ring two pieces welded together, rather than once piece. Of course, there was scrap. Tuesday and Wednesday involved learning the basics of the plasma cutter and how to make letters for our rings that the cutter could actually recognise. Thursday was taking a stab at learning how to put images in AutoCad and make them able to be cut be the plasma cutter.

This week also had an essential question: What ways are there to use clean energy/gas?

First, there are solar panels. Solar panels convert sunlight into usable and clean energy. It even lets the user save energy to use for later. Often, the prices are lower, too. Next is wind power. The name is self-explanatory, as wind power turns a giant fan to make electricity. The only limitation is location, as some areas cannot fit the large fans, or not enough wind can generate power. Lastly, methane gas is a possible way for clean fuel in vehicles. As it is a natural gas and human waste or compost can easily converted to it, this is one of the more optimal choices. Too bad it isn't that appealing.

Above is an image of an example of a fire ring, as our group doesn't have any built yet.

Week #14 -- Companion Complications and Trailer Tribulations

Week fourteen is going, going...gone! Thus ends the week before Thanksgiving Break. All students are ultimately looking forward to a much needed rest from school (teachers, too). However, this week was full of exciting work, too. Monday watching the show Modern Marvels: Aluminum. This video gave all students an overview on the history, properties, and value of aluminum in modern society. I was assisting someone on Tuesday, and was not present. Thursday involved using AutoCAD to make a base/trailer for the cabin itself. I was called once more for a meeting in the office, therefore I didn't get very far. I also got assigned to a companion project: Fire Pits!

This week's essential question was: what makes aluminum so special?

Aluminum is a very light metal with many varying uses and applications. It has a relatively melting point and can be easily compressed into thin sheets . It can be used for the outer shell of cars, crumpling easy for increased driver protection. It is also very lightweight, thus increasing mileage on vehicles. It can also be used as aluminum foil, to keep microbes and germs out of food and keep it fresh for extended periods of time. 

Week #13 -- Trail of Tear...drop trailers!

This week in AutoCAD, we students have began our lessons in building teardrop trailers, though they don't have to be teardrops. All work was CAD work, as the first two days of the week were holidays (Veteran's Day and the Marine Corps birthday, y'know). Wednesday was the first stage of planning, with reviewing what types of trailers there were out there and what kinds appealed to us. Thursday was further research, examining dimensions and both interiors and exteriors. Needless to say, it was a fun experience.

The reader may note that this post has been typed a week AFTER the aforementioned week. This is because I was called for a meeting in the middle of class, so I could not finish it that day. Thus, my hand has been forced to do it now.

There was no essential question this week.

Week #12 -- Metals, 3-D, and CNC (Oh my!)

Thus, 3 months of school have concluded! This week, we students have participated in the tasks of watching a "Modern Marvels" episode on the production of metals, 3-D AutoCAD, and further work on the CNC Router and MIG Welder. As the Metals is part of the essential question, I will refrain from addressing that until the conclusion of the post.

First off, the class worked with our teacher to make a small, 3-D part in AutoCAD. This involved using the 3-D tab to make objects become three-dimensional. Since this was my first time using it, I was a little behind in making the part and using functions, but I got through. Another useful tool was being able to turn the 3-D objects to either Wireframe or Shaded, or Sketched, and so on. This gives the creator a preferred look to his work.

Next, I have been working on a CNC Router project. I used Quickpart to formulate a design for my piece, and brought some of my own red spray paint to colour the wood. I decided on making a United States Marine Corps themed piece for November 10th, the USMC birthday. It will be given to my father.

Lastly is the essential question: What metal that humans have produced has had the most effect on our life?

This point can be argued many ways. For me, I prefer aluminum. However, I shall give a small list on the pros and cons of each metal mentioned in the video, as to address each point of view.

Copper: Highly conductive and malleable, can be easily turned into wiring for machinery. Used in many modern products such as phones, computers, and basically anything that uses electricity.

Bronze: An alloy. Much stronger than copper alone, fused with tin. Was made for weapons and practical pieces in the Bronze Age. Now used for mostly aesthetics. Malleable and light.

Iron: Much stronger and heavier than bronze, not to mention much more widely available. Easily able to rust. Used in many modern applications, including axes, pick-axes, hoes, and other gardening or heavy working tools

Gold: Never rusts, very ductile and malleable, and pretty. Was used in currencies for hundreds of years, now used in wiring or microchip components. Since it is much weaker than most other metals, it is not used for tools.

Steel: Strong, durable, and reliable. It is used in skyscraper frames, car frames, and literally every modern tool or kitchen utensil to date. Ships, cars, trains, tanks, trucks, and everything in between has steel somewhere. Slightly expensive to manufacture.

Aluminum: Very malleable, lightweight, and strong. It is very recent, easy to manufacture, and available for practical and aesthetic applications. It is used for kitchen wrap to keep foods fresh, to the outside framing for cars. Less strong than steel and crumples easy.

Week #11 -- MIG Welding and Fracking

Another week ends. This week, we were educated in 3D AutoCAD skills, MIG (Mechanized Inert Gas) Welding, CNC router work, and of course being asked an essential question. First off, I was bed-ridden for the first two days of the week. As consequence, I was NOT present for the 3D AutoCAD magic, and am thus rendered inept in the past proceedings. I was informed I will be taught later, which is a relief. I was quite looking forward to that particular part of AutoCAD skills. Next, our class learned how to use the MIG Welder. My group has been using it for the past quarter, so I already had basic knowledge. However, our teacher showed us the different parts of the MIG Welder, how the wire (electrode) feeds, how the flux core (for shielding) works, and how to make simple welds. The main three techniques he showed us were "beads", "tacks", and "stacking dimes". He also demonstrated how to weld two pieces of metal together.

The essential question of the week is: What is "fracking"?

"Fracking", or formally known as hydraulic fracturing, is a form of petroleum mining. The technique used is where miners drill in a metal drilling rod about a mile down, then turn in a direction parallel to the ground above. They then set off small explosives to fracture the stone and let petroleum get through. Miners will also shoot down a special synthetic liquid that keeps the cracks open. This allows for effective oil retrieval. The downside is that they sometimes hit water mains or piping, thus possibly poisoning people's water.

Week #10 -- CNC and Grill

This week our group worked further on our grill. The main basin frame has been completed, along with cutting the legs of the grill. Unfortunately, we messed up on directing one of our frames, so now it is upside down. Went along with it anyway. We now have to finish the sides, put some framing in for strength, then complete the lid. Also this week, we learned some basics of the CNC Router. I was missing the first day, so I was not able to participate in the introduction. Since I was working on the project with the rest of the grill crew, I did not get any time on MasterCAM. However, I did cut my piece of wood, so I'm ready to design.

The Essential Question of this week is "why is Made in USA such a big deal?" When products are made in our own country, it first instills a major sense of pride and independence, as we make our own goods and do not have to rely on others. Second, it creates jobs for those who live here. Instead of giving jobs to foreign countries such as China, personal production allows the economy to flourish and educate individuals in varying trades. Lastly, our workmanship is superb and surpasses most our countries. However, this could just be patriotism and bias speaking, and is likely personal opinion of the American masses. 

Week #9 -- Evaluations

The ninth week! What fun! Main events that have occurred for this week were further completion of the grill, performance evaluations, and a field trip! First, progression on the grill has sped up to a considerable rate. Several pieces of sheet metal have been cut. Two for the 18 inch sides, one for the 3 foot side, and one for the bottom. Admittedly, we are behind on where we need to be, but we are excelling. Next, the evaluations were this week. They were interesting, to say the least. Getting to see our teacher's side of our story gave an interesting outlook. Finally, the field trip was this week. The trip was to the Santa Rosa Veteran's Memorial for the North Coast Builder's Exchange. There were many booths and activities to see what jobs in the technical field were available. It was an enjoyable experience.

The essential question for this week asked us what we thought were the three most important traits for a successful work environment. In inverse order, the three are as follows: Third: Reliability. The trait of being able to be on time, be effective, and get stuff done. Second: Motivation. Being able to find the effort to do work and finish projects through to the end. First: Attitude. If you have a good attitude and remain steadfast, you can finish jobs and will be looked to as a sense of morale for your compatriots. 

Week #8 -- Welding Assembly

Further on the war horse trudges, ever so slowly. This 8th week, the welding team has completed welding the bottom frame of our grill basin. It is a little rustic, but seems functional enough. We also cut sheet metal for the bottom and used an angle grinder to grind out some imperfections in our cut angle iron pieces. The result was satisfactory and produced sufficient results. We have yet to do the same for the sheet metal. We also have to weld the rest of the frame.

As we did physical work, our teacher and the team discussed plans for a hinge and lid system. The decided result was a simple ring-and-peg hinge that will be welded to the grill and the lid. This will give us the style of a hinge without compromising strength. We also have the ventilation holes to figure out, as well as height of the final product. We are progressing, albeit slowly. 

Week #7 -- Cutting Some Iron

And so another week opens at the close. This week, the welding crew was able to make some realistic progress and cut some actual angled iron with a specialised miter saw. We learned to cut the pieces with the angle facing up, for ease and efficiency. Also, we aimed not to damage the saw. We cut our pieces, however, we miscalculated the measurements on two pieces and cut two of the wrong sizes. A rather rookie mistake and waste of materials. This cannot be permitted in the future.

In addition to physical work, we were given another "part" challenge by our teacher. As before, it required part replication using certain tools in AutoCAD. This time it was a die stamp. With increased difficulty, this challenged required use of the "Fillet" technique. I failed to properly replicate the part, forgetting to use my "Offset" key, thus making copying the part impossible.

Essential Question: What is the minimum wage debate?
The debate stated above entails a dichotomy between the rich and poor arguing over whether or not to raise the minimum wage ($9.00 in California) to a higher amount. The ones who earn minimum wage assert that low-paid workers need the extra currency to support their families and posterity. The other side claims that doing so would cause inflation and that companies, especially local ones, would not be able to obtain the funds for paying each individual worker and would have to fire some, thus minimizing jobs as a result. 

Week: #6 -- Project Progressions

The sixth week concludes in much the same frame as its predecessor. This week, we completed a multitude of objectives. First, we all participated in a special challenge, called the Small Part Challenge, proposed by Mr. Smith. He drew up a small, random part and instructed us on certain steps, using AutoCAD, on how to copy the part. The next day, we went at it and tried our skill with the program to achieve completion. If we knew other methods, we were allowed to use them in the challenge. I must state that I found it rather joyous and intriguing, testing my skill. We also furthered work in our projects. The Grill is still behind significantly, something I am not happy about, to say the least. We have our specifications and all members are perfecting the art of arc welding. It is a tedious process.

Essential question time! This week's inquiry: "Who are ISIS, and why are we dropping bombs on them?" In response, I have been able to research that ISIS, an acronym for "Islamic State of Iraq and Syria" is a terrorist group that aims to make Iraq and most of northern Syria into a state ruled by Islamic law. We have bombed them because they have brutally tortured and decapitated American people, not to mention general cruelties and inhumane actions. They have threatened the West and have made terrorist threats. 

Week: #5 -- Walls and Layers

Another week has come and gone. Much has been done through the past 4 days or so. First, we were instructed on how to design simple structures in AutoCAD, including a framed wall. The knowledge of how to measure walls, as well as where to put studs, windows, and the like was acquired. Furthermore, we were taught on what "layers" are and how to make them in AutoCAD. Their value in distinguishing individual parts in a drawing is unparalleled so far.

The project groups met once more for further work on projects. My current group was able to establish dimensions of our grill, along with the material list. The second day of project work (yesterday) our group learned the basics of welding, using the arc-welder. A good amount of fun, though I did, admittedly, get frustrated at my lack of skill in the craft. More practice is mandatory.

Alas, now comes the time for the essential question. This time it is the different levels of education and educational degrees, post secondary school. The primary and most well known degrees are as follows: Associates Degree, Bachelors Degree, Masters Degree, and Doctorate. Also, some certificates in junior colleges could be earned, such as those for engineering, science, math, et cetera. 

Week: #4 -- Drawing Sketches

Another week has passed, as it inevitably would. Recent work entails further use of AutoCAD and, surprisingly, creating our own sketches. These sketches are primarily for our projects, which were assigned to us within the week. I was assigned to making something our instructor deemed "a bad-ass grill". The job requires welding and basic metal construction and design. I do not know much of this yet, but I am sure I will learn in time. The other tasks we undertook during the week included learning how to use the trim tool in AutoCAD, which allows the user to erase lines to clean up blueprints. We also added some simple dimensions to act as a measuring tool for real-life construction. This allows us to see what measurements would attribute to particular areas of an object or structure in AutoCAD.

Other ventures included the Object Snap Challenge, where the class learned all the different snap maneuvers in the program. This allows one to have precise drawings and have all lines match up perfectly. A very useful tool if one wished to not be an ignoramus and have a proper drawing.

Additional Focus:
The Additional Focus of this quarter moon is "taxes". How colorful. Taxes are a financial charge levied by a state on a particular person or institution. Such charges can be paid with money or labour, yet failure to pay can result in punishment with the law. Taxes are used for a variety of purposes, including the military, education, health services, public safety, property protection, social security, economic infrastructure, public works projects, and other state-supported institutions. There are many forms of taxes such as income tax, capital gains tax, property tax, and most commonly, sales tax. Taxes are a fundamental process for a stable economic system and generally benefit the country or state overall.

Week: #3 -- Progressing to Design

We have just begun actual work in our classes. This week contained the basics of learning the AutoCAD program. As part of this process, we were required to make small, two-dimensional planter boxes. These creations were sample blueprints for the actual garden planter boxes we hope to complete. According to our instructor, orders have already been placed by a sub-division of our own school and by another school. Interesting and rather surprising to see that the class fills orders from other establishments or the students. Fundamental to building this is the compound miter saw, a device used for precise cuts in simplistic building materials.

Another worthy note is that we have been assigned an essential question as extra food for thought. This question was "what is a labor union?". I happened to research that a labor union is a group of workers who collaborate to gain better conditions and wages in a work place. Most comprise of basic workers and laborers, though variations are numerous. Such unions formed in the mid-to-late 19th century, during the United States' Industrial Revolution.

Unfortunately, I cannot access my own blueprints as of present due to complications within computer programs and Google Drive. 

Week: #2 -- Project Selection

At last the second quarter moon concludes. In this time period so far we have learned more in depth about roles in projects we will begin soon, have taken vital safety tests and communications for not becoming "disposed" in the workshop, and have learned some of the new tools and items to be used in our endeavors. The AutoCAD program was also demonstrated and used during the quarter moon, as grasping the basics was mandatory if we want to do future designs. As an addition, we have obtained two new students. Exciting, to say the least!

I have also received new hardware glasses and show particular zeal in the ear-muffs. Interestingly, they deflect all sound and make everything sound as if it is in a vacuum. Odd indeed, though the astronomer in me is rather giddy about in. Silly, I know. 

Week: #1 -- Introduction to AutoCAD

CAD (Computer Aided Design) class has begun officially as the first quarter moon comes to, paradoxically, a close. Not much progress has occurred in the class minus the rudimentary start-of-term notices and safety guidelines. Such parameters include how the course will work, course aims, safety in the working environments, and the assigning of specialists to particular projects. I am quite looking forward to designing and building the "computer island" as it has been coined. I am in extreme anticipation to begin drawing graphs and and prototypes. I have many ideas for this particular project and cannot emphasize how eager I am to start. Welding will most likely prove mandatory to my list of life skills. I wish to add it.

However, I do not look forward to the garden and hydroponics as much. I spent my whole summer already performing such tasks. I am resentful to it. Time will tell if my mood changes, hm?

~Dr. Novae