Brigham Young University | United States
Author profile
Scopus
Early Academic Pursuits 🎓
Ms. Ruth Belnap embarked on her academic journey at Brigham Young University (BYU), where she achieved a Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering with a minor in Music, maintaining an impressive GPA of 3.78. Her passion for engineering led her to pursue a Master of Science in Manufacturing Engineering, further enhancing her expertise in the field. During her studies, Ms. Belnap earned a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and a GSIP Certificate, demonstrating her commitment to process improvement and quality management. Additionally, she became a certified Manufacturing Technologist through the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), solidifying her foundation in manufacturing principles.
Professional Endeavors 🔬
Currently, Ms. Belnap is a Graduate Research Associate at BYU's Friction Stir Research Lab. Since 2022, she has managed multiple high-profile research projects, including a $100k two-year project focused on building prototypes of airplane skin via RFSSW and another $100k project performing tool life tests in hard-to-weld 2xxx aluminum alloys. Her role involves designing and executing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and utilizing specialized equipment and software such as Excel, JMP, Logger Pro, and Dragonfly. Ms. Belnap has also been instrumental in training undergraduate students and effectively communicating research findings at various conferences. In addition to her research role, Ms. Belnap served as a Technology Reference Assistant at BYU's Harold B. Lee Library Makerspace from 2019 to 2022. There, she consulted patrons on CAD, 3D printing, and other makerspace technologies, led training workshops, and curated documentation and tutorials to enhance the library's resources.
Contributions and Research Focus 🔍
Ms. Belnap's research primarily focuses on advanced welding technologies and manufacturing processes. Her work with Bond Technologies, Refill Friction Stir Spot Welds, and various metallographic techniques highlights her dedication to advancing welding technologies and improving manufacturing quality. Her experience with specialized equipment, such as Keyence optical microscopy and Thermo Fisher Scientific SEM, underscores her commitment to high-precision research and development.
Accolades and Recognition 🏅
Ms. Belnap has made significant contributions to her field, as evidenced by her successful management of substantial research projects and her active participation in conferences. Her expertise in advanced welding technologies and her role in training students reflect her recognition as a valuable contributor to both academic and practical aspects of manufacturing engineering.
Impact and Influence 🌍
Ms. Belnap's work has had a notable impact on the manufacturing industry through her research and contributions to advanced welding technologies. Her ability to manage complex projects and communicate findings effectively demonstrates her influence within the engineering community. Her global experience, including living in three countries and traveling to over 25, further enriches her perspective and ability to address diverse challenges in manufacturing.
Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟
Ms. Belnap's ongoing research and dedication to advancing manufacturing technologies position her as a promising future leader in the field. Her commitment to process improvement, quality management, and educational outreach ensures that her contributions will continue to shape the manufacturing industry. As she progresses in her career, Ms. Belnap's work is likely to inspire future innovations and advancements in engineering.
Publications 📘
- 📰Article: Evaluating the Influence of Tool Material on the Performance of Refill Friction Stir Spot Welds in AA2029
Authors: Belnap, R., Smith, T., Blackhurst, P., Bosker, J., Hovanski, Y.
Journal: Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing
Year: 2024
- 📰Conference Paper: Production Evaluation of Refill Friction Stir Spot Welding
Authors: Belnap, R., Blackhurst, P., Hovanski, Y., Cobb, J., Misak, H.
Series: Minerals, Metals and Materials Series
Year: 2023
- 📰Conference Paper: 2D Axisymmetric Modeling of RFSSW Repair and Experimental Validation
Authors: Berger, E., Miles, M., Blackhurst, P., Belnap, R., Hovanski, Y.
Series: Minerals, Metals and Materials Series
Year: 2023