Workshops and Labs
The newly renovated Digital Fabrication Lab (Fab Lab) at Taubman College leverages state-of-the-art industrial technology to perform architectural research. It is one of few select academic institutions around the world utilizing robotic automation to perform both subtractive machining and automated assembly processes. The technologies have existed in the aerospace and automotive industries for some time, but have just recently infiltrated the architectural-fabrication industry.
The Fab Lab operates numerous computer-numerical controlled (CNC) machines, allowing students and faculty to work with virtually any material.
Hardware
Two large CNC routers process plywood or plastics, in addition to 3-D surfacing wood and foam. A three- axis abrasive water jet cutter can perform 2-D cuts in any material up to 1" steel and 2" stone to five one thousandths of an inch.(005") tolerance. A smaller three-axis milling machine can perform full 3-D cuts in metals. The robotic abrasive water jet has the ability to follow compound-curved surfaces; cuts with minimal lateral forces, simplifying fixturing of materials; and cuts bevel or swept-edge surfaces.
The seven-axis robot is the largest machine in the lab, with a 30'x10'x8' work volume, which is the equivalent of the size of two small trucks); the robot is one of the largest in the world at an architectural institution. The robot can load either a milling head for cutting wood and foam, or a water jet head for full 3-D cutting of any material. The machine utilizes a gripper for material forming or assembly processes.
The lab also makes use of four rapid prototyping machines for on-demand 3-D printing of student models, and four laser cutters for rapid production of sketch models from chip board or acrylic. Two of the rapid prototyping machines are located within the architecture studios making it easier for students in studio to access the equipment 24-7.
The two new laser cutting systems are now installed in the west computer cluster on the third floor. These systems are available for use by authorized users on a weekly signup basis. In order to become an authorized user, we require participation in a mandatory tutorial session with the Lab Assistants. These tutorial sessions can be scheduled by emailing TCAUPlaser@umich.edu.
In order for this dramatically increased access to equipment to be successful, we need everyone's help. Please do not attempt to use the laser cutters until you have attended the tutorial session. Once you have attended the tutorial, please help us maintain the safety of the equipment by following all rules and procedures. The systems should never be running unattended, so if you encounter this situation please notify the laser assistant at TCAUPlaser@umich.edu.
A fully outfitted wood and metal shop supports the digital lab, allowing secondary processes such as bending and welding on the digitally cut components.
Working with non-traditional materials
The lab seeks to work with traditionally difficult materials to cut and design with in non-traditional ways to gain new ground in material design, production and use. In collaboration with the School of Art & Design, faculty and students can slump form glass sheets, and perform secondary machining with a robotic water jet.
Streamlining Workflow and Scripting Research
The lab is also focused on streamlining the workflow from computer-aided design (CAD) to production, using scripting and other methods. While scripting is often used purely as a formal device, ongoing research seeks to generate machine code directly from the native CAD environment, in tandem with offline simulation of the machine tool program.
Fall 2009 HOURS
3D Printing
The 3d printers are operated daily on demand, just follow the procedures in the handbook for submitting your file. If you need help from a Lab assistant, the hours are as follows:
- Hours TBA
CNC Router Calendar
The 3-Axis CNC routers are accessible throughout the week. To schedule a time to use the CNC router, please check the CNC calender (link above). Available shifts are labeled 'OPEN.' To reserve your preferred open shift, please email TCAUProuter@umich.edu. You will receive a prompt reply confirming your reservation.
Laser
The laser cutters are available for use by authorized users 24/7. Laser Assistants are available various hours throughout the week for assistance as needed. To contact one please email TCAUPlaser@umich.edu.
The Lab employs numerous assistants to help with the various operations in the lab, including the laser cutters, the CNC router, and the 3d printers.
You can email the lab assistants at the following addresses.
The Digital Fab Lab Coordinator is available to help with CNC and rapid–prototyping projects, as well as other digital troubleshooting. Please contact Wes McGee / 1223A A+A / wesmcgee@umich.edu
A reference handbook has been prepared to orient users to the Fab Lab equipment, procedures, and operations. Users are strongly encouraged to review these materials prior to setting up a project or contacting the lab coordinator.
Digital Fab Lab Handbook (PDF 128KB)
The Handbook outlines procedures for using the equipment in the lab. Please use the available 3D Printing Submission Form (PDF 568KB).
In addition, the Art and Architecture Building houses the 7,000 square foot Building Technology Laboratory. The BTL is a unique resource for class use in group assignments or demonstrations, individual investigation by students, or faculty and research in teaching methods in the area of building technology.
