T39 Sigma Gamma Epsilon Undergraduate Research (Posters)

Sunday, 9 October 2011
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Hall C

STUDENT-MADE JACOB'S STAFFS FOR TEACHING AND MEASURING STRATIGRAPHIC SECTIONS

Paper number: T39-37
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Authors

Abstract

Inexpensive Jacob’s staffs for measuring stratigraphic sections are a worthy undergraduate project that can benefit an entire department. We present the best practices as well as the design results and costs for 20 Jacob’s staffs intended for classes at the University of Utah. These staffs consider durability, optimal photographic results, and user friendly ergonomics that distinguish them from other typical staffs. These considerations are reflected in: alternating photographic scale divisions based on school colors, flat (vs. semi-gloss) paint to reduce glare and reflections, and lightweight wood with rounded edges.

A prototype staff (which prompted refinements) was constructed using other observed and published examples for guidance. Assembly line production provides cost savings based on economy of scale. First, metal hardware was precisely machined using the department machine shop. This hardware includes an angled aluminum bracket for sighting, a bubble level, and a protective bracket at the base of the staff to prevent bottom wear. Each wood staff was cut (total length 1.5m) and drilled to attach hardware. The wood was masked at 25cm increments and a layer of primer was applied, followed by three coats of alternating sections of red paint. After adequate drying, the wood was re-masked and sections of white paint and additional primer were applied. External hardware was attached using nuts, bolts, and thread locker.

Initially, the experimental prototype had a single cost of $25 for all parts, including paint. The assembly line effort of 20 staffs cost $10.42 each, including all supplies and paint. The total time to manufacture and paint the multiple staffs was 24 hours of undergraduate time, as an additional cost or consideration.

Each aspect of Jacob’s staff production was a learning experience that contributed to the undergraduate experience and provided a valuable end product for future use in Earth science classes and research.