Projects: Long and Short
David
Experience Information
Employer: Flextronics Automotive
Job Title: Intern
Major: Product Design and Manufacturing Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Flextronics Automotive is a manufacturer of solenoids for use in the transmission of cars. The location I worked at was previously Saturn Electronics, but was bought by Flextronics last year. Flextronics runs several product lines of Solenoids, including one in China.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
As part of the main project I was placed with I was in charge of updating the Problem Solving Document, a Six Sigma tool used to analyze and keep track of projects. I ran tests on many solenoids, X-rayed them, and tore them apart to measure how certain parts had changed during calibration. I retrieved data from the End Of Line Tester and helped set up a work instruction for that task. One day some of the technicians called in sick and I helped keep the line running by fixing faults and supplying parts to the feeder bins. One of the product lines was going to get a new machine in the assembly, and while I was being built I was asked to help feed parts through to make certain it was running properly. I got some design work done with Solid Works. For one project I designed a gauge that would be used to measure terminal height at three critical points on the part. Another design was for parts that would help parts be picked up properly off of the track running through the annealing oven. I was also tasked with acquiring a piece of equipment for the quality lab that would function like an Instron, but be easier to use.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I learned how to use tools like MINITAB to analyze the distributions of test data. I learned how the line equipment functioned, and how to fix problems that occurred. I learned that before trying to buy new equipment it is important to get as much information as possible about the tests it will be used for. I reinforced my skills in CAD software. I learned that it is better for an engineer to keep documentation of any changes that happen to the product, because it is easier than trying to find out years after those changes occurred.
Favorite Part of the Experience
At one point my supervisor was having me collect solenoids with certain characteristics (some we had modified, some had failed End Of Line Testing, etc.). I X-rayed those parts (because we needed to see the state a spring was in while it was assembled), tore them apart, and measured several of the components. This was my favorite part because examining the parts brought up several new aspects of the product that we could study. I also liked using the equipment and taking the solenoids apart.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
When I first started the co-op semester, I had become disinterested in my engineering classes. I wanted this experience to give me direction as to whether I wanted to pursue engineering still, or not. Because of this experience I have decided to keep going forward. I know myself a little better now, and I realize that it will take some time and work to find where I like to "fit". Engineering is about problem solving, and I've found that I like that process.