Date: May 12, 2006 
To: Intel Foundation 
From: Chris Kuryak, University of Texas at Austin 
Re: Undergraduate Research Project Progress Report 1 

Project Overview 

The project I will be working on over the next couple of months involves the 
creation of three-dimensional (3D) objects using microstereolithography (µSL). The 
overall purpose of µSL is to create complex microstructures for use in micro electromechanical 
systems (MEMS). For example, µSL can produce extremely small springs to 
be used in microscopic machinery. My project over the next two months is to modify the 
current µSL system at the University of Texas at Austin as to expand its capabilities in 
the production of 3D microstructures. 

Work Completed 

So far, I have visited the lab in which I will be working and inspected the µSL 
machine that I will be modifying. I read some of the background information on µSL to 
ensure I have some knowledge before entering the lab and beginning any 
experimentation. To sum up how a µSL works, one must think of a normal projection 
system used in classrooms or in business meetings. The image that is produced from a 
projector is usually cast upon a screen or wall for easy viewing. In the case of µSL, the 
image is cast upon a curable resin surface. A UV light is then exposed onto this surface 
causing the exposed area of the resin to solidify, while the dark area remains a liquid. 
This process is performed several times on top of itself to create a 3D object. The 
following image shows the overall setup of a µSL system. 



Current Work 

Currently, I am finishing my research on the background of µSL and how the 
system works. I will meet with my graduate advisor more often this month to begin my 
manipulation of the µSL system. Hopefully I will obtain significant results by the end of 
the month. 

Schedule For Next Month 

1. Finish the research and experimentation on modifying the µSL system 
2. Create a poster summarizing the work I have performed and the results I 
have found 
3. Present my results to the appropriate personnel 
Current Thoughts on the Project 

I am excited to be working on this project. This is an area of engineering that I 
feel will be very important in the future. I am sure there is knowledge I can give to this 
project as well as take away from it.