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Center for Robotics and Biosystems Makerspace

Overview

Welcome to the website for the Makerspace / Machine Shop / Prototyping Lab for the Northwestern University Center for Robotics and Biosystems (CRB). The CRB Makerspace provides access to mechanical and electronics tools and materials to support research within the center.

Makerspace overview

Equipment & Resources

  • Hand tools and basic power tools
  • Fasteners and common components
  • FDM 3D printers with (mostly) PLA filament
  • Machine tools
    • Drill press
    • Bandsaws
    • Mini-mill
    • Mini-lathe
    • Mini-CNC
    • Laser cutter (acrylic only)
  • Electronics benches with soldering stations, power supplies, scopes, meters, etc.

Access

The CRB Makerspace is for students, staff, and faculty of the Center for Robotics and Biosystems (CRB), with priority for students in the Master of Science in Robotics program. Access is controlled by keycard and requires completion of training and acknowledgment of the Makerspace Policies.

Getting started

  1. Get approval from your PI, PhD student, and/or postdoc to use the Makerspace.
  2. Review and agree to the CRB Makerspace Policies.
  3. Arrange and complete orientation with the Makerspace Manager.
  4. Request keycard access after training is complete.
  5. Build cool things (while following all procedures and safety instructions).

Location

The CRB Makerspace is located on the second floor of the Tech building in room A277. Click here for a map.

Other Machine Shops and Prototyping Labs

The CRB Makerspace is meant to support robotics research projects and is best suited for smaller projects made of plastic or non-ferrous metals. For additional equipment and resources, check out the other machine shops and prototyping labs on campus.