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FAB5 CONFERENCE 16- 22 August 2009 College of Engineering, PUNE. Fabrication Laboratory. Fabulous Laboratory!!. South African FabLabs Latest Development Hub FabLab – Lindi Kimberly FabLab – Thato Soshanguve FabLab – Khutso/Bongani Potchefstroom FabLab – Pieter Cape Town FabLab – Pieter
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FAB5 CONFERENCE 16- 22 August 2009 College of Engineering, PUNE Fabrication Laboratory Fabulous Laboratory!!
South African FabLabs Latest Development Hub FabLab – Lindi Kimberly FabLab – Thato Soshanguve FabLab – Khutso/Bongani Potchefstroom FabLab – Pieter Cape Town FabLab – Pieter Bloemfontein FabLab – Deon Outline
Outcomes of the 2007 internal review indicted that even though the FabLabs have existent for a short time, they have demonstrated value. However, there are some fundamental issues which were raised ito purpose, function & position within broader system of innovation the number of learners with the basic science, maths & language skills required for engineering is small of those with the basic skills, few are entering engineering programmes of study As such, the review highlighted a need to define more clearly the role & purpose of FabLabs in short-medium term FabLab New Strategy
To create a ‘technology buzz’, by: Generating excitement & enthusiasm for SET endeavours amongst learners, especially in marginalised communities, through: Developing technology based programmes by providing resources to participate in specialised training programmes Developing technology based skills at various levels that will enable participants to engage in technology based occupations appropriate to their capabilities FabLab New Strategy
Proposed model based on multi-level programme in which participants move from one level to the next At each level there will be a ‘filtering’ process to identify the best and brightest (in terms of ability and performance) to move to the next level The pinnacle of the process will be an opportunity for the top achievers (the Engineering Stars) to take part in or be exposed to high profile events or enterprises: Automotive Space Aeronautical BioTech NanoTech Energy Others Engineering Stars Programme (ESP)
Community Schools Universities Mobile Fab Lab FabLab Engineering Stars Programme (ESP) Part of Pilot- Advocacy, Course framework & events The point of departure for ESP are the existing FabLabs in the country
Fab Foundation The Role & Functions Knowledge Management Inventory management Operational data capture (i.e. F.L.I.M.S) Website Equipment Benchmarking Links between local andglobal FabLabs community Attracting Funding (e.g. NGO’s, TIA, SOE’s) Links with other DST initiatives (e.g. Science Centres, YiSS, TIA) Rolling-out & setting up of new FabLabs Establishing & piloting First S.A Mobile FabLab Unit Hub FabLab
To provide tools for STEM education (Empowerment) to marginalised communities To provide teacher & learner/ inventor support in marginalised communities (bridging the digital divide) To provide an infrastructure to foster an innovative society To equip learners with tools/resources to participate in the national SET Olympiads & Competitions Mobile FabLab
Directive for Hub FabLab to develop a mobile unit Survey/ Study US Mobile FabLab unit + associated publication(s) Various design platforms Truck / Lorry Bus Trailer Other (train) Proposal (within budget) Mobile FabLab Pros & Cons i.t.o cost & practicalities
Process followed Trailer option selected Design layout Selection of equipment to use Placement of equipment Equipment usage practicalities (i.e. Access of equipment- in or out of the trailer) Outsource the manufacturing of the trailer Identified possible manufacturer (Absolute Ablutions) Bakkie/Van/ 4X4 identification/ selection Brand (e.g. Toyota, Nissan, Mazda etc.) New or second hand (pros & cons) Diesel or Petrol Single or double cab Buy or lease (rent-a-bakkie) Mobile FabLab
Trailer CAD files Mobile FabLab User’s Platform Personnel Platform
Progress thus far & Way forward Mobile FabLab • Finalised design • Trailer Manufacturing • Courier equipment to manufacturer for fitting • Delivery date end October (ideally) • with equipment bolted down • Graffiti designing • Involve Graphic art design students (e.g.UP,UJ,TUT,UNISA) • Pilot in accordance with new FabLab strategy • Replicate in line with FabLab strategy