Tinkerers Lab: A Space for Innovation and Creativity
Figure.1. The Tinkerers Lab
The Tinkerers Lab at the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar is a space that fosters creativity and innovation, allowing students to push the boundaries of what is possible in the fields of engineering and manufacturing. It is a space where students can explore their ideas and turn them into tangible objects that make a real difference in the world.
Figure.2. Various equipment and machines of the Tinkerers Lab
The lab is equipped with a variety of mechanical tools and machines, including a laser cutter, drilling and milling tools, computers with CAD software, and many more. The lab’s environment is conducive to exploration and experimentation, with students encouraged to collaborate and share their ideas.
Figure.3. 3D Printer
One of the most prominent pieces of equipment in the Tinkerers Lab is the 3D printer. This incredible piece of technology is capable of creating three-dimensional objects from digital designs. It works by layering material on top of itself until the object is complete. The
possibilities of 3D printing are endless, and it has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about manufacturing and engineering. From creating prototypes for products to manufacturing intricate medical models, 3D printing has a range of applications that make it a valuable asset in any innovation lab.
Figure.4. Sunil working with the 3D printer
One student who has taken advantage of the Tinkerers Lab’s 3D printer is Sunil Jatav. Sunil is passionate about engineering and manufacturing and spends much of his free time working on various projects in the lab. His interest in 3D printing began when one of the lab assistants introduced him to the technology. From there, he began to explore the possibilities of 3D printing and how it could be used to bring his ideas to life.
Figure.5. Fabrication of digital design using CAD software
When Sunil’s approached about his project, he eagerly shared his process. Sunil explained that he had designed the part using CAD software and had loaded the design into the 3D printer. He carefully monitored the printer as it created layer upon layer of plastic material, slowly building the part from the ground up. It was time-consuming, but Sunil was determined to get it right.
Figure.6. 3D printing the part using the digital design
Sunil asked about motivation and why he had chosen to work on this particular project, and he explained that he was frustrated with the way his current table scratched the floor every time he moved it. He had considered purchasing a protective pad for the bottom of the table, but none of the options was quite right. So, he decided to design and print his own solution.
With the guidance of the lab assistant Jaydeep Kakadiya, Sunil made some adjustments to the design and printed a new prototype. The final product perfectly fit his table and worked flawlessly to protect his floors.
Sunil was thrilled with the result and excited to continue experimenting with the 3D printer. He had even started brainstorming other projects he could work on in the lab. Clearly, the Tinkerers Lab was a place for students like Sunil to explore their creativity and bring their ideas to life.
Figure.7. Other projects in Tinkerers Lab
In conclusion, the Tinkerers Lab at the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar is an exciting and innovative space that allows students to explore their creativity and turn their ideas into reality. With access to a range of powerful tools and machines, including 3D printers, laser
cutters, and design software, students have the resources they need to create innovative products that can make a real difference in the world. The story of Sunil Jatav and his manufacturing workshop project using the 3D printer is just one example of the many incredible projects that are created in the Tinkerers Lab. By giving students the opportunity to experiment and collaborate, the lab is fostering a culture of innovation that will have a lasting impact on the future of design and manufacturing. The Tinkerers Lab is truly a space of endless possibilities, and it is exciting to think about the many incredible products and solutions that will be created by the brilliant minds that pass through its doors. Join us in exploring the world of innovation and manufacturing at the Tinkerers Lab!
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