Hello everyone,
Things are slowing down at the Wayne College MakerSpace, being the start of summer. Engineering students enjoyed their second model rocket launch day during Finals Week. Although I wasn’t present to witness the event, Jonny’s unique design (the “opening flower pedal” technique) allowed the rocket to descend gently without a parachute. Congratulations for such an inventive solution!
The new MakerBot has been repaired thanks to Dusty who installed a replacement extruder. We now have a printer that handles PLA plastic allowing for larger, more reliable, and more complicated prints.
Even though it’s summer and not many students are frequenting the MakerSpace, we are certainly busy. Josh (one of our students) designed a yo-yo from scratch. We have yet to attach string to see how well it works:
Chris recently designed a 3D printed engine mount for an RC airplane that he is building (from scratch). Dusty is building his own RC controlled model car, so he designed this strut system with Creo and printed it using our newest 3D printer:
Our latest challenge will be designing and printing a replacement coffee mug cap for our Dean! This will be a difficult project that involves a sliding/locking opening for dispensing the liquid. We will also research the possibility of printing with food-grade plastics, as ABS is not rated for this use. Here is the part that we will reproduce:
Another exciting announcement is that we are on Service Request (the yellow smiley face icon on your desktop)! You can now request objects to be 3D printed by submitting them on the “3D printer” tab. We can print objects from www.thingiverse.com, objects that you bring in that need reproduced, or via photos. Just fill-out the form and submit your request.
There is the possibility of offering basic CAD design and 3D printing lessons over the summer. Stay tuned for more information!
Have you ever been to a Maker Faire or know what they are? San Mateo California hosted this event, full of creative inventions and interesting people. How would you like a “beer battle” controlled by brainwaves? Here is a taste of the event:
Stay tuned for exciting happenings at the Wayne College Makerspace!
Tom