Machine Shop

About the Machine The Epilog laser is a piece of equipment that is able to cut and engrave certain types of material (i.e. wood, glass, leather, and certain types of plastic). Using the power of a CO2 laser, you are able to cut and engrave your dreams. We Have two Fusion Pro Epilog lasers at the […]

About the Machine The Protomax Waterjet is a machine that is able to cut a plethora of materials including wood, metal, carbon fiber, glass, and rubber. The machine comes with a CAD-based software included, making it easier for the user to learn more about computer-aided manufacturing. We have one Protomax Waterjet at the SHU IDEA […]

About the Machine The ShopBot is a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) router available at our lab. A CNC router is essentially a computer-controlled machine that has the capability to cut a variety of materials. Types of materials you can cut using the ShopBot include wood, aluminum, and different types of foam. We have one ShopBot […]

About the Machine Our MTAB machines are our CNC (computer numerical control) mills and lathes. These machines are mainly used on metal. The lathe is used for making cylindrical shapes and the mill is a three access CNC machine that focuses on metal. We have one MTAB mill and one MTAB lathe at the SHU […]

About the Machine The Formech Thermoformer is a machine that allows the user to form molds of various shapes and objects. The machine uses quartz heaters to heat up the material and mold the object, and a vacuum system to release the mold from the sheet once the mold is complete. At the IDEA Lab, […]

In this training, you will learn how to safely operate our Epilog laser engravers. Once the badge acquired, you will be able to use the machines during any of our open use sessions. To get your badge, you must watch all training videos, pass the quiz on this page and perform an in-person test during […]

The Water Jet is a machine that uses a CAD-based software to cut a variety of materials including wood, metal, and carbon fiber. Unlike the ShopBot, this is capable of cutting through much more sturdy materials. To be allowed to use the waterjet, you must watch all training videos, 100% the required quiz, and perform […]

In this training, you will learn the basics of the ShopBot and how to operate the machine safely. To be allowed to use the ShopBot, you must watch all training videos, 100% the required quiz, and perform a test print to show that you are able to use the machines safely. Training Videos Introduction Video […]

In this training, you will learn how to safely operate the Formech Thermoformer and how to create simple molds. Once this badge is earned, you are able to use the machine during open use hours with an IDEA Lab facilitator present in the room. To pass this training you will need to watch all provided […]

In this training, you will learn how to use the rotary add-on with the Epilog laser, allowing you to engrave cylindrical objects such as glasses. You will also learn how to cut and engrave leather. To be allowed to use the laser, you must watch all training videos, 100% the required quiz, and perform a […]

To be allowed to use the ShopBot, you must watch all training videos, 100% the required quiz, and perform a test print to show that you are able to use the machines safely. Requirements ShopBot Basics Training Training Videos: Inlay Two Sided 3D Machining Two Sided 3D Machining Take the Quiz! Cheat Sheet: Facilitator