SPOT
general prototyping
#Rapid Prototyping #Electronics #Mechanics #Testing #Ideation #ConceptThe Student Prototyping and Outreach Tank is a makerspace open to all the bachelor and master students at EPFL. In the free access area you can use basic tools to assemble/tests your prototype. You also have access to IT ressources, a computer room, storage room (limited) and spaces to meet with your team and ideate. This space is one of the central contact points for prototyping at EPFL. Feel free to come by, explore, and ask any questions you may have. Competent and passionate coaches and student assistants will be happy to answer your questions and guide you in the development of your prototyping journey. And don’t forget: the sooner you ask questions in the prototyping process, the easier it will be to guide you in the right direction!
Useful links
Free access
Monday to Friday 07:30 to 23:30. For Interdisciplinary projects only : Monday to Sunday 07:30 to 23:30
Equipments
Mecanical Workbench
SPOT - general prototyping
Take a standard workbench, add a good-quality vise, a layette with mechanical tools (hammer, files, saws, ...), let it rest for 2 hours at 180°C, and voilà! You get a super mechanical workbench.
Standard Workbench
SPOT - general prototyping
What to say: it’s a workbench, it’s practical, and it avoids working on the floor. Oh, and by the way it measures 150x80x91cm (L x W x H).
Electronical Cabinet
SPOT - general prototyping
Probably the coolest cabinet you’ve ever seen. It contains everything you need to quickly prototype basic electronics. You’ll find:
- A soldering iron kit.
- A small vise and a third hand to hold your project.
- An illuminated magnifying glass.
- A laboratory power supply.
- An oscilloscope.
- A signal generator.
- Various pliers.
- Basic tools (screwdrivers, files, etc.).
- ...
Layette
SPOT - general prototyping
There are 3 rules in engineering:
1. Always use the right tool.
2. Hammer is always the right tool.
3. Everything can be a hammer.
Those layette contains all necessary tools to build your prototype like a professional.
Open Access Cabinet
SPOT - general prototyping
This cabinet, open during coach presence hours, allows you to find all sorts of useful accessories. Some might choose to bring only a knife to a deserted island, but I’d choose tape!
- Materials available:
- Different types of glue.
- Different types of tape.
- Heat shrink tubing.
- Disposable gloves.
- Wood screws.
- Sandpaper.
- Staples.
- Clamps.
- Universal lubricant (WD40).
- Laboratory power supply.
- Heat gun.
- Thermometer.
- Scale.
- Bicycle pump.
- Spirit level.
- ...
Ressourcerie
SPOT - general prototyping
Circular box to recycle electronics and components. Once your project is finished, you are free to drop off components that can be reused in future projects. Everything in this Aladdin's cave is free, and it is everyone's responsibility to ensure that the components dropped off or taken work.
Big Screen
SPOT - general prototyping
For events at the SPOT, a giant screen can be used to project your best short films. Unleash the George Lucas within you and get ready for the new SPOTwars: Return of the Zip Tie.
Drill And Grinder Cabinet
SPOT - general prototyping
This cabinet contains 3 proxxon grinders, 6 makita drills and Batteries available for self-service for prototyping work. All necessary accessories (bits, attachments, etc.) are directly in each corresponding locker. Charged batteries are located on the left side of the cabinet.
Battery Cabinet
SPOT - general prototyping
3... 2... 1... ignition! Because not all ignitions are good news, a fireproof cabinet with detectors is available to prevent thermal runaway.
Whiteboard
SPOT - general prototyping
Because a drawing is sometimes worth a thousand words, whiteboards are available for self-service in the common areas of the atrium. Be sure to use only erasable markers and to leave the board clean for the next users.
Screen On Wheels
SPOT - general prototyping
These screens are available for free circulation (inside the SPOT building) and can be used by students to simplify group work in the common spaces of the SPOT.
Totem
SPOT - general prototyping
These digital information panels allow you to stay informed about the latest MAKE news at EPFL. If you have an event, it’s also possible to display your chosen information. All details on rights and access can be found in the link below. Don't hesitate to ask Julien Delisle how to make them work perfectly.
