Providence, RI [Brown University] - Building satellites that go into orbit. Weld-on weight frames for Formula 1 style racing cars. Work on wooden chairs. Laser cut details on Iron Man's helmet. The Brown Design Workshop is a place where students and community members push the boundaries not only of their dreams, but also of their creations.
The workshop is located in the Mechanical Engineering Research Center of Brown University and covers 10,000 square meters. She owns a variety of tools and machines, including carpentry tools, laser cutters, sewing machines, welders, 3D printers and more.
Established in 2013, the site is full of students who frequently host workshops to help new members practice and certify all instruments. The space is open to everyone, not just engineers, so students of all interests can share the workshop with staff, faculty and members of the local community.
In fact, the venue's new manager, Luise Manfredi, plans to expand it further.
"Mechanical shops and workshops can be daunting if you're new to it," said Manfredi, an associate professor of engineering practice who started in July. “We want to work with managers and supervisors to figure out how to make the space less intimidating [and] more encouraging and engaging.
Early in his tenure, Manfredi recognized the company's potential to improve the use of resources, processes and materials to reduce the impact of climate change and to work with environmentally conscious and ethical suppliers. .
"I also hope to encourage students to come to BDW and try new materials like bioplastics or components that use food waste or BDW waste," Manfredi said. "As a community of creatives, we can collectively look for ways to reduce our footprint."
As the space evolves and grows, this video shows what to expect at Brown's Design Workshop and introduces this option for Makers on Brown's campus. Read the original story from former students and friends here.
