Summary & Thesis #1

Summary 

Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing which employs ultraviolet (UV) lasers to selectively cure liquid photopolymer resin into solid layers, producing highly detailed and precise components (Aerosport Additive, n.d.). In civil engineering, SLA technology is increasingly utilized for architectural modeling, structural prototyping, and customized component fabrication. Engineers leverage SLA printing to create scaled building models, bridges, and façade elements, achieving resolutions as fine as 25 microns (Wu, Wang, & Wang, 2016). SLA systems consist of a UV laser, a resin vat, and a build platform, which work together to achieve layer-by-layer curing. Advancements in engineering-grade resins now offer enhanced mechanical properties such as increased tensile strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance, making SLA prototypes viable for functional testing (Goodfish Group, n.d.). Furthermore, SLA’s ability to fabricate intricate internal structures, including lattice frameworks, supports lightweight and optimized designs, a key factor in sustainable construction (All3DP, n.d.). While historically limited to small-scale applications, ongoing research explores SLA’s potential for producing modular building components, such as connectors and molds, to complement large-scale 3D concrete printing methods (Jipa, 2021).

Thesis

SLA 3D printing presents significant advantages for civil engineering applications, particularly in prototyping and specialized component fabrication. However, limitations in scalability, material durability, and cost present challenges for widespread adoption in large-scale construction.

References

All3DP. (n.d.). 3D printing lattice structures: The ultimate guide. Retrieved from https://all3dp.com/1/3d-printing-lattice-structures-the-ultimate-guide

Aerosport Additive. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D Printing. Retrieved from https://www.aerosportadditive.com/

Goodfish Group. (n.d.). Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing: The ultimate guide. Retrieved from https://www.goodfishgroup.com/stereolithography-sla-3d-printing-the-ultimate-guide

Jipa, A. (2021). Exploring SLA 3D printing for modular building components in large-scale construction. 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing, 8(4), 189-202. https://doi.org/10.1089/3dp.2021.0024

Wu, P., Wang, J., & Wang, X. (2016). A critical review of the use of 3D printing in the construction industry. Automation in Construction, 68, 21-31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2016.04.005

Background Draft 1

Stereolithography (SLA) is a cutting-edge 3D printing technology that uses ultraviolet (UV) lasers to solidify liquid photopolymer resins layer by layer, creating highly accurate and detailed objects (Formlabs, 2024). SLA printers, such as the Formlabs Form 3 and Anycubic Photon Mono X, are widely recognized for their ability to produce high-resolution models with smooth surface finishes (3D concrete printing, 2024). In the context of civil engineering, SLA technology is transforming the way engineers and architects approach design and construction. The ability to create intricate geometries and scaled-down models makes SLA printers particularly valuable in developing prototypes, construction components, and even testing materials. By enabling rapid prototyping and visualization, SLA technology enhances communication among stakeholders and allows engineers to refine designs before full-scale construction (Formlabs, 2024.).

Research Pathway

Chatgpt prompts for SLA 3D printer: Overview of 3D together with its features and functions with APA style 7th edition

Personal Problem Reflection

  

Hu Zhanyuan	Procrastination
Ideal	- Start and complete tasks on time, working consistently for 4 hours daily.
Reality(gap)	- I delay starting work until the last minute, causing stress and rushed work.
Causes/Conditions	- Easily distracted by social media - Fear of failure leading to avoidance
Results	- Poor quality work - High stress levels - Lack of sleep
Goal	- Complete assignments 2 days before deadlines, and study at least 4 hours daily
Possible change	- Break tasks into smaller, manageable parts - Use a timer for focused study sessions - Reward myself after finishing tasks - Turn off phone notifications during work time
Testing the hypothesis	- Use a planner to schedule specific times for tasks - Keep phone in another room while studying
Outcome of change	- More tasks completed on time - Reduced stress - Improved focus and task quality - improved sleep quality

Formal Introductory Letter

Dear Professor Brad Blackstone,

I hope this letter finds you well. My name is Zhanyuan, and I am excited to join your Critical Thinking module. This course caught my attention because I see critical thinking as an essential skill not only for solving engineering challenges but also for making better decisions and growing personally.

I graduated in 2024 with a diploma in BCA Construction Engineering. During my studies and internship, I worked on several practical projects where I applied engineering concepts to real-world problems. One project that stood out to me was designing a sustainable water management system. In this project, I contributed by analyzing environmental constraints and ensuring our design met both functionality and precision requirements. This experience deepened my interest in civil engineering, particularly in sustainable design and hydraulic systems. I am eager to build on this foundation by learning how to approach engineering problems with a critical and creative mindset.

One of my strengths is my ability to communicate effectively through writing. In group projects, I often took responsibility for preparing reports, ensuring ideas were presented clearly and logically. Beyond writing, I value learning from others, as I believe every interaction offers new perspectives. However, public speaking remains a challenge for me. During my final-year project presentation, I struggled with confidence, particularly when answering questions under pressure. To improve, I have been practicing speaking in smaller groups and am looking forward to honing this skill further in your module.

For this module, I have two specific goals. First, I aim to build confidence in public speaking by learning how to structure and deliver my ideas effectively. Second, I want to enhance my critical thinking skills, enabling me to analyze problems from multiple perspectives.

What sets me apart is my curiosity and adaptability. My curiosity drives me to ask thoughtful questions and explore innovative solutions, while my adaptability helps me remain resourceful in dynamic environments. These traits allow me to approach problems with a fresh perspective and tackle challenges creatively and effectively. I am committed to strengthening these qualities as I grow both academically and professionally.

Thank you for taking the time to read my reflections. I look forward to learning from this module and growing both academically and personally under your guidance.

Best regards,
Zhanyuan

Read Peckshien, Zhiguang, Royston

The Importance of communication skills for engineers

 "Developing excellent communication skills is absolutely essential to effective leadership. The leader must be able to share knowledge and ideas to transmit a sense of urgency and enthusiasm to others. If a leader can't get a message across clearly  and motivate others to act on it, then having a message doesn't even matter." 

Gilbert Amelio, former President and CEO of National Semiconductor Corp

Excellent communication skills are the core of leadership in delivering information and inspiring urgency and enthusiasm. Through clear expression and influence, leaders transform knowledge and ideas into tangible actions, driving the team toward achieving goals. Even the best ideas lose their impact without effective communication, leading to blocked progress and limited cooperation. Therefore, communication is the cornerstone of successful leadership and the key to motivating the team to move forward together.