How do you make a Fab Lab?

Here, we’ll explain each of the 5 steps in detail:

1. Set your Fab Lab goals.
2. Create a blueprint of the space.
3. Get buy-in from key stakeholders.
4. Choose the right tools.
5. Embed your Fab Lab into your curriculum.
6. Tips, tricks, and advice.

What is Fab Lab and what’s the purpose of Fab Lab?

Fab Lab – Digital Fabrication Laboratory, is a place where anyone can make (almost) anything, using digital design, 3D printers, laser cutting and other advanced technological means. In its essence, Fab-Lab is about turning ideas into a reality.

What is Fab Academy?

The Fab Academy is a Digital Fabrication Program directed by Neil Gershenfeld of MIT’s Center For Bits and Atoms and based on MIT’s rapid prototyping course, MAS 863: How to Make (Almost) Anything. The Fab Academy began as an outreach project from the CBA, and has since spread to Fab Labs around the world.

How many Fablabs are there in the world?

1,750 Fab Labs
More than 1,750 Fab Labs all over the globe! Because all Fab Labs share common tools and processes, the program is building a global network, a distributed laboratory for research and invention.

What is a fab lab?

To be a Fab Lab means connecting to a global community of learners, educators, technologists, researchers, makers and innovators- -a knowledge sharing network that spans 100 countries and 24 time zones.

Can commercial activities be prototyped and incubated in a fab lab?

Commercial activities can be prototyped and incubated in a fab lab, but they must not conflict with other uses, they should grow beyond rather than within the lab, and they are expected to benefit the inventors, labs, and networks that contribute to their success.

What do I need to build a fab lab?

You need some significant space devoted to storing large pieces of wood and other materials, as well as cubby holes or shelving for student/user individual projects. The following will get you fully fab lab ready, in other words, you can participate in Fab Academy, research collaborations and all the things a full fab lab is capable of doing.

How long does it take to build a mobile fab lab?

The build of a mobile Fab Lab includes several phases (Design, Procurement, Construction, and Preparation & Training). These phases take approximately 6-18 months for completion depending on the project and the capacity of the network.