Alex Murchison
Mechanical Engineering Student
Engineering Design
My Initial Thoughts
Before starting the desk clock project, I honestly did not realize how much planning, precision, and patience went into even a relatively simple machined product. At first glance the project looked straightforward, but once I started working through the machining processes, measurements, finishing, and assembly, I quickly learned how important accuracy and process order are in manufacturing. This project gave me a much better understanding of how engineering drawings, machining operations, and real-world fabrication all connect together to create a finished product.
Enigneering Projects
Precision Machined Desk Clock
METHODOLOGY / CHALLENGE / SOLUTION
Precision Machined Desk Clock
This project involved designing and manufacturing a custom desk clock using a combination of machining, finishing, and assembly processes. The goal was to create a clean, functional final product while gaining more hands-on experience with manufacturing techniques and shop equipment.
During the project, I worked through several machining operations, including facing, drilling, cutting, sanding, deburring, and final assembly. A major focus was making sure the parts fit together correctly while also improving the overall surface finish and appearance of the clock. I also learned how important process planning and the order of operations are for reducing machining time and improving consistency.
One of the biggest takeaways from this project was seeing how small manufacturing decisions can affect both production efficiency and the quality of the final product. It gave me a better understanding of real-world machining workflows, tolerancing, and the balance between functionality, appearance, and manufacturability.
Blending Engineering with Creativity
This custom clock project focused on combining mechanical design, machining, and creative problem-solving into a functional finished product. The project involved planning the overall layout, designing components in CAD, and manufacturing parts with attention to precision, fitment, and overall presentation.
Throughout the build process, I worked through design revisions, machining operations, material considerations, and assembly challenges, improving both my technical and hands-on manufacturing skills. The project emphasized accuracy, detail-oriented work, and the balance between functionality and visual design.
This experience helped strengthen my understanding of mechanical design workflows, fabrication processes, and project development from concept to finished product. It also reinforced the importance of patience, precision, and iterative problem-solving within engineering and manufacturing environments.