Using Tech Spark
10 Jan 2019Overview
On Thursday, the lab session will be held in Tech Spark; but it will also be a resource for your work outside of class times too:
The space houses a simulation cluster, 3D printers, rapid prototyping equipment, electronic fabrication facilities, and traditional manual and CNC machining to allow students and faculty to design and fabricate at the nano, micro and macro scales.
It is important to note that the space is common access. That means that while we will have some reserved space in the general lab for our sessions; other users may be in the space and may be working on their projects.
In short, be a good citizen - don’t clutter or leave projects on workspaces you aren’t actively using; make sure your belongings are safety stored not to create a tripping hazard for others and generally be mindful of the shared use.
As it’s a shared space you’re also responsible for ensuring that the spaces are well maintained: you should always leave it in good working condition for others.Take the time to clean up the workspaces immediately after use, make sure tools are returned to their proper places, etc.
Specific information about Tech Spark follows next
Accessing Tech Spark - Equipment and Hours
Equipment is available during TEAM open hours (Training Engineers And Makers). This includes the FabLab (3D printers, laser cutters-engravers, electronics stations) and MetalShop (manual and CNC machining equipment).
TEAM hours (hand/power tools, 3D printing,laser cutting, electronics and soldering) are typically
- 9:30am - 11:59pm Mon-Thurs
- 9:30am - 9:00pm Fri-Sun
Communal areas are accessible 24/7. This includes the computing cluster, project storage, and assembly / meeting area
Full details on hours can be found at https://engineering.cmu.edu/techspark/about/index.html and you can make reservations via the online calendar
User Policies
Equipment is access controlled and you will need to use your CMU ID or Computer Login to activate this equipment. To use this equipment you must have the appropriate shop training (see BioRaft) and you must have completed the appropriate courses to learn how to use the equipment safely. Most are covered in the 3 unit course: 24-104 - Maker Series I: Intro to Modern Making.
To work with:
- Hand Tools: Complete EHS Hand & Power Tool Certificate or 24-104 Intro to Modern Making; checkout equipment from TEAM to use within space wear proper PPE;
- 3D Printers: Complete 24-104 Intro to Modern Making; Ultimakers are the only self service request print service from TEAM; material consumption charged to personal account at $0.30/g
- Laser Cutting: Complete 24-104 Intro to Modern Making AND EHS Fire Extinguisher Part1 Certificate
- Electronics & Soldering: EHS Soldering Safety Certificate
When working in the space be mindful of the following:
- All tools stay in the space and are returned after each use (ensures resources are always available)
- Walkway must always stays clear of chairs and bags (make sure it is easy to exit in an emergency)
- If you use resources or consumables (beyond those provided) from Tech Spark you may be charged to your student account.
- Food is strictly prohibited
Full details can be found on https://engineering.cmu.edu/techspark/facilities/index.html
Project Storage Policies
- storage crates are owned by the makerspace
- you can only store items in your group’s officially assigned crate
- the crates must stay in the makerspace but you can take your project components anywhere
- when you’re leaving, even if only for a quick break, you need to return the crate to its assigned location
- all stored objects must stay within the crate volume, parts poking out will be confiscated
- your group is responsible for emptying the crates at the end of the semester (return them to the same condition they were received)