From idea to reality
Our Digital Fabrication Laboratory (Fab Lab), located on Century College’s East
campus, is a “hi-tech tinkers” workshop for inventors and people who have a need
to design, prototype and build things.
In our lab, individuals who can envision an idea, have access to a variety of
technologies which allow them to produce an end product through the use of
computer-aided design and desktop manufacturing technologies.
The Fab Lab is available to Century students, faculty and staff.
Lab equipment
The lab is equipped with open source CAD/CAM software, allowing people to design
and manufacture products.
Fab Lab equipment includes:
- a laser engraver
- mini-mills - 2 Sherlines & 1 Modela
- vinyl sheet/sign cutter
- 3D powder-based rapid prototyping machine
- ShopBot (4’ X 8’ CNC Router)
- and a host of hand tools and bench top machines
It is possible to “make almost anything” in our lab, ranging from small electronic circuits
to full-sized boats, and even small modular cabins.
Fab Lab Steps to Getting Started
Step one (What you need to do before you arrive)
- Have a clear idea of what you would like to make, whether it’s a prototype or a final product.
- Contact us to schedule a time to use the Fab Lab.
- Bring the raw materials you’ll need to fabricate your final product.
Step two (What we'll do here together)
- We'll talk through the basics of your idea and what steps you’ll take to make it.
- We'll teach you how to safely use the digital fabrication machines.
Step three (What you'll do here)
- You'll create your product!
Local to global connection
Our Fab Lab is part of a global network of other labs that share ideas
and resources. Named by MIT professor Neil Gershenfeld, Fab Labs are the leading edge of the personal manufacturing revolution.
Century's Fab Lab in the news:
Contact
For more information, contact Fab Lab Director Scott Simenson
at 651-779-3236.