Freshman Foundation Course

This multidisciplinary course puts students of electrical, mechanical, computer, civil, chemical engineering and more together in the same classroom to learn and interact. Students learn basic project skills such as how to work in a team environment, how to use basic tools, and the basics of project management. They learn high quality soldering and assembly techniques, how to operate mechanical tools like drills, bandsaws, mills, and lathes, and to develop and successfully execute project plans. This course also teaches the importance of cross-disciplinary brainstorming, testing, and iteration, focusing on diversity of thought, experience, and background.

The students begin by assembling an open-source 3D printer from a kit. After assembly, they conduct a series of tests to ensure the printer meets the manufacturer’s specifications and can successfully print an object.

Once they are printing objects, they rigorously test and characterize the system, learning to use test instruments such as volt and current meters, oscilloscopes, calipers, dial indicators, polarization stress measurement systems, and thermal cameras to measure and characterize attributes like the accuracy and repeatability. They theorize root causes of the system tolerances. They then engineer fixes and improvements to the system.

At the end of the course they have a reasonably good 3D printer and knowledge as to what makes a good 3D printer. They are proficient in using basic tools, making basic measurements, and know how to work as a team. They have attended presentations and design reviews from the Sophomore Foundation and Junior Keystone courses, so they know where they are going and what it will take to get there.

Throughout this and all BUILD courses, students will work in interdisciplinary teams. In this first BUILD class, team leadership is provided by an upperclassman who teaches leadership by example.

The first class is particular exciting - take a look!

Summary: What’s in this for you?

In this first course you will learn how to use basic tools (screw driver, soldering iron, band saw, oscilloscope, CNC mill, protocall analyzer, and many more). You will learn how to be a team leader and a good team member. You’ll learn how to be an engineer. And you’ll build a pretty sweet 3D printer to keep and use throughout the rest of your classes.