McMaster Series: Materials Research
1P13 Academic Project - Wind Turbine Blade Design
Project Narrative
For those unfamiliar with McMaster's 1P13 project-based design, we follow a structured process with defined milestones. Upon completing these milestones, we submit our 'final deliverables' for completion.
Project Milestones
- Project Management
- Problem Statement
- Problem Statement Refinement
- Conceptual Design
- Scenario Specific Turbine Blade Design (Sweden's in our Case)
- Finalized Design
Final Deliverables
- Finalized problem statement: define the suitable function, constraints, and objectives
- Justification of high-level and technical objectives
- Summary of material selection: How your team selects your chosen material
- Summary of CAD modeling (design embodiment): determine the sheet thickness requirement
- Summary of peer-learning experience
Fig.1. Granta Material Selection Chart
Fig.2. AutoDesk Inventor Deflection Simulation
Team's Work and Personal Contributions
Timeline: Sept. 21st - Nov. 1st (2023)
This project jump-started our 1P13 experience, marking our initiation into role-specific duties. As the project manager, I played a pivotal role in maintaining a steady progression of deadlines and ensuring efficient distribution of tasks within the team.
How can I lead with clarity while ensuring everyone contributes effectively?
While my responsibilities encompassed a wide range, I particularly focused on contributing significantly to the wind blade design and crafting the initial Gantt Chart.
Fig.3. Designed Blade Model
Fig.4. Team Gantt Chart
Reflection
Throughout this project, effective timeline management and more importantly proper communication was necessary to succeed.
How can I structure the project's timeline for optimal efficiency?
This consideration led to a refined understanding of time management strategies. The implementation of structured group meetings emerged as a pivotal strategy, significantly enhancing productivity and ensuring adherence to deadlines.
How can I strike a balance between creative thinking and realistic implementation in design?
This question had a profound impact on decision-making, emphasizing the importance of optimization. It ensured that our designs were not only innovative but also feasible, contributing significantly to the project's success.