Advanced Materials Lab
2022
Designed the methodology for a 3D-printing system that fabricated midsoles using custom photopolymer resins. The project aimed to enhance comfort and mechanical performance through lattice-structured designs and precise curing control. My interest in this project began from a personal challenge—I was born with cavus feet, a condition that causes high arches and pressure concentration when walking.
Key Contributions:
- System Automation: Developed a LiDAR-based 3D scanning workflow to capture foot posture and generate point clouds, which were then converted into optimized lattice structures and trimmed to match custom shoe designs
- Material Characterization:Conducted tensile and compression tests on custom photopolymer resins to evaluate flexibility, compressive strength, and fatigue resistance
- 3D Modeling & Design: Developed lattice midsole geometries tailored to distribute pressure more evenly
- Sample Volunteer: My own feet ended up becoming part of the project! Since I was the only one with cavus feet, I donated my 3D scan as the test model for validating comfort and pressure distribution
This project represented more than a technical challenge—it was a personal exploration of how engineering can restore balance and comfort to the human body. It taught me that innovation begins when empathy meets precision, and that solving problems we personally understand can inspire broader human-centered design.
Skills:
- CAD & Design Tool: Solidworks, Fusion 360, nTopology
- Experimental Equipment: Mark-10 Force Gauge, LiDAR Scanner, Vacuum Chamber, UV-Curing System, 3D Printer
- Materials & Fabrication: Photopolymer Resins, Composite Materials, Additive Manufacturing Processes
- Analysis & Testing: Material Characterization (Tensile/Compression), Stress & Strain Analysis, Pressure Distribution Evaluation, 3D Geometry Optimization