If you have any questions about this report or how you can use the FabLab, please email us at fablab@uvm.edu.
The FabLab Served over 800 Projects in the 2022 Academic Year
For the academic year of 2022, we processed a record-breaking number of tickets (student projects) in 2022. Just over 800 tickets went through the lab.
Engineering Students are the Core Constituency of the Lab
Our core client base is students enrolled in Engineering courses, primarily Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering. Computer Science and Studio Art students make up 35% of the lab’s usage.
The Highest Volume of Projects Go Through the Lab in the Spring Semester
In April, there is a spike in activity when senior capstone engineering projects (also known as SEED) hit a final deadline. April is also when first-year students in Mechanical Engineering 001 use the FabLab. Computer Science students come through the lab both semesters, while most Studio Art classes run projects in the fall semester.
3D PRINTING IS ALL THE RAGE
In the academic year of 2022, 64% of the projects that came through the lab required 3D printing, and 36% required laser cutting or engraving. The FabLab also provides laser scanning and soldering stations. However, we do not measure the usage of these services. A few labs have made good use of our Cricut cutter for cutting polymers that can’t go on the laser, and some student clubs use the Cricut for making club stickers.
The FabLab is Engaged in Educational Outreach and a Favorite Stop on UVM Tours
We were delighted to provide in-person tours to visiting families and UVM Classes throughout the year. Additionally, we facilitated more student-led workshops than in previous years and contributed to an art exhibition.