FAB5 CONFERENCE August 2009 College of Engineering, PUNE Fabrication 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

FabLab New Strategy 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

Engineering Stars Programme (ESP) 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) Formula One Advocacy Generic course framework Events ( FabLabs) Olympiads - Computer - Science - Technology - Other Competitions - Science Expo - F1 in Schools - 4x4 Challenges - Formula Student - Other Space Advocacy Generic course framework Events ( FabLabs) Olympiads - Computer - Science - Technology - Other Competitions - Science Expo - Other Part of Pilot- Advocacy, Course framework & events Mobile Fab Lab Universities Community Schools The point of departure for ESP are the existing FabLabs in the country

ESP Framework Model

Hub FabLab 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 and global 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

Mobile 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) Pros & Cons i.t.o cost & practicalities

Mobile FabLab  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 User’s Platform Personnel Platform

Mobile FabLab  Progress thus far & Way forward 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