Digifab Development Plan
Mid-term Goals
- Organize and Optimize Spaces
- Utilize one of the upstairs shelving units to house the Bambu printer, computers, and associated items neatly.
- Establish a compressed air hardline across the building to improve accessibility for tools requiring air.
- Community Engagement
- Initiate regular meetups (monthly or fortnightly) for Digifab enthusiasts to connect, share knowledge, and discuss projects. These can be casual gatherings to build a strong community around digital fabrication.
Machinery Management
Intention to Sell: Resin Printers
- Reasoning: The focus will shift toward maintaining accessible and user-friendly tools like FDM printers, as the Bambu satisfies most 3D printing needs for casual users. Selling the resin printers would allow for better allocation of resources to spaces and equipment that serve a broader audience.
Intention to Sell: Big CO2 Laser Cutter
- Reasoning:
- Current Issues: The big CO2 laser cutter is underperforming, producing only 30W of output power, with costly repairs (e.g., a new tube costs ~$1,500).
- Value: Estimated resale value is around $5,000. Selling while it is operational and before further deterioration makes financial sense.
- Limitations: Lacks essential features like adjustable Z-axis and tramming options, and replacement parts are challenging to source.
- Plan: Redirect funds toward purchasing a more reliable, fully-featured machine.
Intention to Buy: Thunder Laser NOVA 35
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Machine Overview:
A compact, high-quality laser cutter with a 900x600 mm work area, 100W of power, linear rails, servo motors, a proper camera system, and an automated Z-axis.
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Cost and Funding:
Price: ~$15,000, with a $1,000 discount offered by Thunder Laser.
Plan to organize fundraising efforts involving the Digifab community to achieve this goal.
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Added Benefits:
The Nova 35 can be serviced by Thunder Laser on a regular basis (e.g., yearly), reducing reliance on knowledgeable members for repairs and calibration. This professional support ensures consistent performance and longevity.
The laser can also be managed efficiently at an admin level by the Digifab team, enabling better control and usability for members without requiring in-depth technical expertise.
Keep: Small Red Laser Cutter
- Reasoning: The small laser cutter, despite its smaller surface area, remains in better condition than the big CO2 laser and offers superior Z-axis capacity.
Reorganizing Spaces Post-Sale
- Use the space currently occupied by the big CO2 laser cutter to expand the metal shop.
- Establish a clean machining office in the front room, incorporating the lathe, mill, and laser cutter for an efficient workspace.
Community Involvement
- Call to Action: If you’re interested in participating in meetups, fundraising efforts, or contributing ideas, please get involved! This is a team effort, and your input will be invaluable in shaping the future of the Digifab space.