Welcome!

I am an industrial designer and an enthusiastic participant of this program. As a dedicated learner in the world of digital fabrication and hands-on prototyping, I am excited to showcase the projects and skills I've developed throughout this course. Join me as I explore the intersection of creativity, technology, and innovation in the realm of digital fabrication.

The image shows the final assembly of a project from the Feel First Lab, Fab Academy 2024. In the foreground, there is a white, rectangular device with a cable connected to it. The device has a series of small holes arranged in a pattern on its surface and a circular button with a red indicator light. Behind it, there is a clear case with the Feel First Lab logo and text on it. To the right, a white rectangular box with two illuminated blue circles is connected by a cable. In the background, there is a mechanical assembly with multiple linear guides and connected wires, adding a complex and technical aspect to the setup. The image has the caption 'RESULTS - FINAL ASSEMBLY' in bold white text at the bottom left corner.

Final project

Information related to the development process of the final project: sketches, prototypes, failures, lessons learned, files to download, final result, etc.

The image displays a dark background with four vertical lines of different colors, each leading to a circular icon containing a document symbol. Below each icon is a label indicating different categories of resources. From left to right, the categories are: 'RESOURCES HARDWARE (MACHINE AND MATERIAL PARAMETERS)' with a blue line. 'RESOURCES HARDWARE (ELECTRONICS)' with a green line. 'RESOURCES SOFTWARE' with an orange line. 'RESOURCES THEORY' with a red line. Each category is represented by a white circular icon with a black document symbol, indicating the type of resource available under each category.

Resources

Summaries of parameters of each machine and access to all downloadable material used in each project.

Assignments

List of the topics seen throughout the course and summary of the weekly individual and group assignments.

WEEK 1

Principles and Practices

Project management

The image is a screenshot of a webpage with a black background and white text that says 'Welcome!' in large, bold letters at the top. Below the welcome message, there is a paragraph of text introducing the author as an industrial designer and enthusiastic participant in a digital fabrication program. The text explains their excitement about showcasing projects and skills developed throughout the course, inviting visitors to explore the intersection of creativity, technology, and innovation in digital fabrication. The paragraph ends with a button labeled 'TELL ME MORE.' On the left side of the screen, there is a vertical navigation menu with several options: 'ABOUT,' 'FINAL PROJECT,' 'ASSIGNMENTS,' and 'GET IN TOUCH,' with the 'ABOUT' section highlighted. The webpage has a minimalist design with a focus on clean, readable typography and a dark color scheme.

Sketch of a potential final project. / Work through a git tutorial. Build a personal website describing you and your final project. Refer to the lecture material for examples. Upload parts 1 and 2, to the class archive.

WEEK 2

Computer-Aided Design

Controlling software rhinoceros with potentiometer. The animated image (GIF) shows a computer screen with a software interface divided into two main sections. The left side displays a 2D design with curved lines, while the right side shows a visual programming interface with connected blocks labeled 'SWEEP.' Below the screen, there are several electronic components, including an Arduino board connected with wires and a potentiometer. A person's hand is interacting with the potentiometer, and the changes are reflected on the screen, indicating that the hardware is controlling the software in real-time. The setup demonstrates an interactive design process using both digital and physical tools.

Model (raster, vector, 2D, 3D, render, animate, simulate, ...) a possible final project, compress your images and videos, and post it on your class page. Modelled experimental objects/part of a possible project in 2D and 3D software Shown how you did it with words/images/screenshots Included your original design files.

WEEK 3

Computer-Controlled Cutting

MDF construction system for building small percussion musical instruments. The animated image (GIF) shows a person’s hands manipulating a geometric, dodecahedron-shaped object made of interlocking triangular and pentagonal wooden pieces. The object appears to be a 3D puzzle or a model constructed from laser-cut wood. The person is rotating and examining the object, and the camera focuses on their fingers as they touch and adjust the pieces. The background is a neutral, light-colored surface, which keeps the focus on the wooden structure being handled.

Group assignment:Characterize your lasercutter's focus, power, speed, rate, kerf, joint clearance and types. Document your work to the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned.

Individual: Design, lasercut, and document a parametric construction kit, accounting for the lasercutter kerf, which can be assembled in multiple ways. Cut something on the vinyl cutter.

WEEK 4

Electronics Production

CNC milling an electronic board. The animated image (GIF) shows a milling machine carving out a design on a copper-clad board to create a printed circuit board (PCB). The milling bit moves precisely over the surface, removing copper to reveal the intricate circuit pattern underneath. The process generates small chips and debris as the milling bit cuts through the material. The board is secured on a work surface, and another similar board is visible nearby. The motion of the milling machine is smooth and controlled, showcasing the detailed work involved in PCB fabrication.

Group assignment: Characterize the design rules for your in-house PCB production process: document feeds, speeds, plunge rate, depth of cut (traces and outline) and tooling. Document the workflow for sending a PCB to a board house. Document your work to the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned.

Individual assignment: Make and test a microcontroller development board.

WEEK 5

3D Scanning and Printing

3D scanning process with a red laser. The animated image (GIF) shows a person using a handheld 3D scanner to scan a mechanical part. The scanner is black and has a handle, with the person pressing a button to activate it. The mechanical part being scanned is positioned on a flat surface and has a circular section with multiple holes and a triangular segment marked with a black ring. The scanner moves smoothly around the part, capturing its details. Small reflective markers are placed around the part to assist with the scanning process, ensuring accurate data collection for creating a 3D model.

Group assignment: Test the design rules for your 3D printer(s) Document your work on the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned about characteristics of your printer(s)

Individual assignment: Design and 3D print an object (small, few cm3, limited by printer time) that could not be easily made subtractively 3D scan an object (and optionally print it)

WEEK 6

Embedded Programming

Controling a LED pushing a small button. The animated image (GIF) shows a small, custom-made printed circuit board (PCB) with various electronic components. The PCB is connected to a power source via a USB cable. Several surface-mounted LEDs on the board light up, indicating the board is powered and functioning. The PCB features a microcontroller, a push button, and a series of pin headers on one side. The intricate traces on the board connect the components, showcasing a well-designed layout. The background is a neutral, light-colored surface that highlights the PCB's details.

Group assignment: Browse through the datasheet for your microcontroller. Compare the performance and development workflows for other architectures. Document your work to the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned.

Individual assignment: Write a program for a microcontroller development board to interact (with local input &/or output devices) and communicate (with remote wired or wireless devices).

WEEK 7

Computer-Controlled Machining

Assembly process of a desk designed with different textures in each type of joint to facilitate assembly for the visually impaired. The animated image (GIF) shows a person assembling a piece of flat-pack triplay furniture. The person, wearing a white shirt, is in a well-lit room with framed pictures on the wall and a small shelf holding a plant and picture frames. They pick up a large triplay piece and fit it into place with other triplay parts that are already partially assembled. The room has a cozy atmosphere with a light-colored floor and a wall-mounted light fixture providing warm illumination. The assembly process appears straightforward and efficient, highlighting the ease of putting together the triplay furniture.

Group assignment: Complete your lab's safety training. Test runout, alignment, fixturing, speeds, feeds, materials and toolpaths for your machine Document your work to the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned

Individual assignment: Make (design+mill+assemble) something big

WEEK 8

Electronics Design

Process of designing the routes that connects electronic components for an electronic board. The animated image (GIF) shows a person working on a computer screen with a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design software. The screen displays a detailed layout of the PCB with red and orange traces connecting various components. The person is using a pointing device, likely a stylus or mouse, to interact with the design, zooming in and out, and making adjustments to the traces. The movements are precise, indicating careful manipulation of the circuit paths. The interface of the software includes various tools and options typical of PCB design programs.

Group assignment: Use the test equipment in your lab to observe the operation of a microcontroller circuit board (as a minimum, you should demonstrate the use of a multimeter and oscilloscope) Document your work on the group work page and reflect what you learned on your individual page

Individual assignment: Use an EDA tool to design a development board to interact and communicate with an embedded microcontroller

WEEK 9

Output Devices

braille enhancer device for feeling the braille using vibrations and different objects, such as a guitar. The animated image (GIF) shows a close-up of speakers with particles on top that vibrate when the speakers are activated. The device also includes small vibrating motors. The entire module is placed on top of a guitar. As the speakers and motors activate, the particles on the speakers move in response to the vibrations, creating a dynamic and intricate visual effect. The background is blurred, keeping the focus on the vibrating particles and the mechanical components.

Group assignment: Measure the power consumption of an output device. Document your work on the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned.

Individual assignment: Add an output device to a microcontroller board you've designed and program it to do something.

WEEK 10

Machine Design

The animated image (GIF) shows a machine designed for engraving wooden spoons. The machine has a mechanism that holds a wooden spoon in place while a rotating engraving tool moves over the surface of the spoon, carving out a design. The machine includes several metal and plastic components, with gears and rods visible, ensuring precise movement of the engraving tool. To the side, there are several unengraved wooden spoons, indicating the ongoing process of engraving. The setup is on a table, with cables and additional equipment nearby, including a laptop that may be controlling the engraving machine.

Mechanical Design (part 1)

Group assignment: Design a machine that includes mechanism + actuation + automation + application Build the mechanical parts and operate it manually Document the group project Individual assignment: Document your individual contribution

Machine Design (part 2)

Group assignment: Actuate and automate your machine. Document the group project Individual assignment: Document your individual contribution

WEEK 11

Midterm Review

Sound module test PCB. The animated image (GIF) shows a small electronic module featuring a Seeeduino Xiao microcontroller mounted on a custom PCB. The PCB has multiple pin headers arranged on the sides, with wires connected to some of them. The microcontroller has a USB-C port and various surface-mounted components. The module is placed on a reflective surface with an orange stripe, possibly a workspace or lab bench. In the background, other electronic equipment and tools are partially visible. The animation shows slight movements, indicating that the module is being handled or adjusted.

On your final project site post a system diagram for your project, list the tasks to be completed, make a schedule for doing them, and meet with your local instructor to review these.

WEEK 12

Input Devices

The image shows a close-up of an RGB sensor module connected to a custom-designed PCB intended for use with an ATmega328P microcontroller. In the foreground, the blue circuit board of the RGB sensor features a lens and four bright white LEDs, which are illuminated and casting light. The sensor module is connected to the PCB in the background via a set of colorful wires (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple). The custom PCB contains various electronic components, including connectors and an integrated circuit (IC), which likely houses the ATmega328P microcontroller. The setup appears to be part of an experimental or prototyping project, placed on a dark surface.

Group assignment: Probe an input device(s)'s analog levels and digital signals Document your work on the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned

Individual assignment: Measure something: add a sensor to a microcontroller board that you have designed and read it.

WEEK 13

Moulding and Casting

The animated image (GIF) shows a close-up view of a polyurethane rubber mold consisting of several pieces. The focus is on the precise fitting between a peg and a hole on two different parts of the larger mold. The material is amber-colored and translucent, highlighting the snug connection between the mold components as they are aligned and assembled.

Group assignment: Review the safety data sheets for each of your molding and casting materials Make and compare test casts with each of them Compare printing vs milling molds

Individual assignment: Design a mold around the process you'll be using, produce it with a smooth surface finish, and use it to cast parts.

WEEK 14

Networking and Communications

The image shows a hardware setup for communication testing involving multiple microcontroller boards and components. The setup is labeled 'COMMUNICATION SETUP - HARDWARE' at the top, with instructions to refer to videos for test results. The main components are connected as follows: Arduino Uno (labeled as Bridge): This board is connected to USB Port 1. ATmega328P Board (Node 1: 'A' / 'a'): This board is connected to USB Port 2 and is lit with a blue LED. Seeeduino Board (Node 2: 'B' / 'b'): This board is connected to USB Port 3 and is shown with a red USB connector. Output Node A: This is a small sensor module connected via wires to the Arduino Uno. Output Node B: Another small sensor module connected via wires, shown on the right side of the setup. The wiring is neatly arranged with multicolored cables connecting the boards and components. The image highlights the various connection points and paths using yellow dashed lines and arrows to indicate the data flow and communication links between the different nodes and the bridge.

Group assignment: Send a message between two projects Document your work to the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned

Individual assignment: design, build and connect wired or wireless node(s) with network or bus addresses and a local interface.

WEEK 15

Interface and Application Programming

Cellphone used to light on and off leds in a PCB board. The animated image (GIF) shows an interactive hardware setup involving multiple microcontroller boards and components connected to a smartphone. The setup includes an Arduino Uno, a custom PCB with an ATmega328P microcontroller, and various connected wires. The components are placed on a flat surface with a laptop keyboard visible in the background. A person is using a smartphone to interact with the setup. They are pressing buttons on a mobile app with options labeled 'Send Data,' 'Node A,' 'Node B,' and 'Bridge.' As they press the buttons, the hardware responds with lights blinking and signals being sent through the connected wires, demonstrating real-time communication and control between the smartphone and the hardware modules.

Group assignment: Compare as many tool options as possible. Document your work on the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned.

Individual assignment Write an application that interfaces a user with an input and/or output device(s) on a board that you made.

WEEK 16

Wildcard Week

plasma cutting. The animated image (GIF) shows a plasma cutting machine in action. The machine's cutting head moves precisely over a flat metal sheet, creating various cuts and shapes. The bright plasma arc is visible as it melts through the metal, producing sparks and a smooth, clean cut. The metal sheet has several pre-cut sections and lines, indicating a complex design being fabricated. The machine operates within a yellow safety barrier, and the surrounding area appears to be a workshop or industrial setting.

Design and produce something with a digital process not covered in another assignment, documenting the requirements that your assignment meets, and including everything necessary to reproduce it. Possibilities include but are not limited to wildcard week examples.

WEEK 17

System Integration

The image shows a 3D CAD model of a mechanical device, likely a robotic gripper or end-effector, but it's the first design of the design module. The design features a central body with an arched top and a sturdy base for attachment. Six articulated arms extend from the main body, each ending in a flat, black pad. The arms are connected via joints, allowing for movement and manipulation. The overall design suggests that the device is intended to grasp or manipulate objects, with the black pads providing a gripping surface using vibrators to attach to other objects. The model is rendered in a grey color with shadows, giving it a realistic and detailed appearance against a plain grey background.

Design and document the system integration for your final project.

WEEK 18

Applications and Implications

The image is an infographic titled 'APPLICATION OF LEARNED SKILLS' that outlines the process and components involved in a project combining design, digital fabrication, and final assembly. Design 2D Design Sound Module: Vibraphone Description: Vibraphone design to test the sound module. Software Used: Autodesk Inventor (sheet metal module). Images: Folded model (support), flat pattern (support and notes). 3D Design Sound Module: Motors Housing Description: Housing for the vibrator motors of the sound module. Software Used: Autodesk Inventor (part module). Images: Motor support, PCB, and electronics housing. Electronics Design Sound Module: Control Board Description: Board designed for controlling the motors and sending data to the main board using Wi-Fi. Software Used: Easy EDA (online software). Image: PCB design. Digital Fabrication Subtractive Manufacturing Sound Module: Vibraphone Description: Vibraphone parts manufactured by plasma cutting. Machine Used: Toyama. Image: Plasma cutter in action. Additive Manufacturing Sound Module: Motors Housing Description: FDM printed parts to ensure that the vibrating motor modules have the flexibility to move while in use. Machine Used: Bambu Carbon X1. Image: 3D printer. Subtractive Manufacturing (PCB) Sound Module: Vibraphone Description: PCB processed using Aspire software to generate G-codes. Machine Used: Roland Modela Pro II MDX-540. Image: PCB milling machine. Final Assembly Master Braille Module: Pins and Translation Description: Preliminary assembly of the Braille reading and writing device translates the position of pins in real-time to identify entered characters. It sends the pin positions to motors and lights modules via Wi-Fi using a home network, allowing users to experience Braille through senses other than touch. Image: Braille device. Sound Module Vibraphone + Motors Description: Final assembly of the sound module with vibraphone and motors. Image: Assembled vibraphone with motors. Light Module RGB LEDs Description: Module with RGB LEDs for light output. Image: Light module. Final System Main Braille Module Module 1: Sound Module 2: Light Images: Final assembled devices for each module. The infographic provides a comprehensive overview of the project's workflow, tools, and components, illustrating the integration of various skills and technologies to achieve the final system.

Propose a final project masterpiece that integrates the range of units covered.

Your project should incorporate:

  • 2D and 3D design.
  • Additive and subtractive fabrication processes.
  • Electronics design and production.
  • Embedded microcontroller interfacing and programming.
  • System integration and packaging.

    • Where possible, you should make rather than buy the parts of your project.

    WEEK 18

    Invention, Intellectual Property and Income

    Creative commons gif

    Develop a plan for dissemination of your final project.

    Prepare drafts of your summary slide (presentation.png, 1920x1080) and video clip (presentation.mp4, 1080p HTML5, < ~minute, < ~10 MB) and put them in your website's root directory.

    WEEK 19

    Project Development

    Sound module assembly process. The animated image (GIF) shows an arrangement of electronic components and 3D-printed parts laid out on a white surface. The components include six small circuit boards, each with a vibrating motor attached by a red and white wire. These circuit boards are symmetrically placed around a central white 3D-printed piece. Additionally, there is a small black rectangular board with a microcontroller connected by wires. Another 3D-printed piece, the housing or enclosure, is placed above the central piece. The animation gives a stop motion of the assembly process.

    Complete your final project tracking your progress.

    Create the project plan.

    Track the progress of your project.

    Summarise and communicate the essence of your project development.

    Let's talk

    Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like to get in touch.

    • © Fab Academy 2024 | Marcela Gonzales | @ Fab Lab UL
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