The Innovation Laboratories makes available to Users several hand and machine tools that can be instrumental for course projects and/or research work.
Usage
All equipment in the Innovation Laboratories is intended for instructional usage only. Usage of hand and machine tools is restricted to the areas where they are available. For example, woodworking tools should remain in the woodshop D211a. Users must complete basic training prior to use of hand or machine tools. Since the tools are to be shared, a tool may be used by a team at a given time for a 2-hour block maximum.
3D printing usage policy
There are two types of 3D printers provided in the Innovation Laboratories. Basic printers and semi-professional printers.
Basic 3D printers provided are JGerwo A8S and XMLY. Students have full access to use them and only materials allowed are HIPS, ABS, and PLA.
Semi-professional printers provided are Raise 3D Pro 2, Form 3 and Z600PLUS (for more information please check tool and material tabs).
These printers are only operated by staff and have no material restrictions. Any student can submit a part request (ticket) via the Innovation Lab staff and it will be printed in the Rapid Prototyping Lab D119.
· ME Class Projects
· Each team is allow to use up to 1kg of HIPS filaments for free.
· Each team can always purchase more filament from studio staff.
· Personal Projects
· Personal projects are allow only if you provide your own filaments.
· Studio staff will not be allowed to sell filaments for personal projects.
· Student Society Projects
· Please discuss with studio staff for further details.
Training
Innovation Lab staff provides necessary training to users who need to use any tools or equipment. Training is required for use of any Innovation Lab equipment. Currently, training is provided for operation of the 3D printers, laser cutters. Once a user completes the necessary training, that person’s name and his/her training on the associated equipment is documented. This training document is valid for the duration of one year. Training sessions are organized by Innovation Lab staff or Monitors. The details on approximate time needed and maximum number of people per training sessions are detailed below. Users may walk in any time during regular Innovation Lab hours of operation and request to be trained. Training for each section of the Innovation Lab is provided separately. Completion of training in only one area does not permit the use of equipment in other areas of the Innovation Studio.
Training will involve the following:
3D Printers: Exporting the CAD model as a STL file. Importing the model into the 3D printer’s slicing software (Cura, JG or similar) and modifying the position, scale, number of copies, print quality, and other parameters.
Laser Cutters: Modifying the CAD file. Defining cut lines and engraving areas. Preparing a file (PDF, dwg, dfx or others) to input to the laser cutter software. Focusing the laser and controlling the start point. For successful completion of the training, a user must demonstrate how to make a basic cut on a sheet of laserable materials such as acrylic or wood.
Woodshop Tools: Proper operation of machine tools and work holding. Proper handling of materials. Wearing correct safety gear. Minding one’s surroundings. Dispose waste materials correctly and cleaning up the work area and tools.
Damages
Any damaged hand or machines tool must be reported immediately to the Monitor working the shift. The Innovation Lab will not charge users for accidental and/or non-malicious damages, as long as they are reported promptly. Damage due to misuse/abuse, as well as unreported damages could result in a verbal warning, written warning and loss of Innovation Lab use privilege. The objective is to encourage users to utilize the facilities and to innovate. Penalties usually involve up to a semester long ban from using the Innovation Lab facilities and/or registration hold. However, a user could be entirely banned from using the facilities.
