Proposal for Independent Study

Tim Krusell

Goal

Use computer controlled cutting tools to make things and create documentation about how to use the tools.

Motivation for Study

• I have already taken all tech courses available here at DHS, but there is still much more potential
• This project will leave me better prepared to achieve my goal of becoming an engineering student and eventually pursue engineering as a career
• At this time, I am exploring my career options and hope to use this study to help me gain better clarity in this area

Products

• Signs for local nonprofit organizations such as the Southeast Massachusetts Trustees of Reservations and Duxbury Conservation Department
• Valuable documentation of the project that can be used to help future students and educators to better use the cutting tools
• Write up of procedures for the manufacturer of the tool and instructables.com
• Use experience and products from this study to form the basis of my college application and portfolio

Process

• Research proper use of shopbot for making signs
• Experiment with materials for a good balance between ease of use and durability
• Cut, paint, and install finished project
• Use internet wikis to post progress and information on the internet as the project progresses
• Work will be done with the help of Mr. Connors in his room
• Publish what I have learned to the internet

Public Visibility

• Product can be used in various local areas
• Documentation will be available for future students and the public
• Shopbot articles will be written to an audience of students and educators and will be published on shopbottools.com
• A writeup of procedures on instructables.com for anyone on the internet to use
• Both local and international audiences will benefit from instructions and products

Business Plan

• I will be researching business aspects of the project
• This project will be revenue neutral to the school system because I will be providing a service in exchange for materials
• If any income is generated by the project it will be used to benefit the Duxbury Technology and Engineering Program
• All exchanges of funds or product will be carefully recorded and reported
• I will have an advisor on the business plan aspect of this project

Material Needs

• Foam for practice cuts
• Wood for the actual signs
• Most materials can be provided for free by already secured sources because most of it will be in the form of scrap sizes

Evaluation

• Each term I will meet with my advisor to review progress
• Before the end of the term I will compose a document that identifies areas of achievement as they relate to this proposal