Skills Workshops

Do you want to enhance your prototyping skills? Then this is for you!

We offer workshops on a broad range of experience levels, and diverse topics, such as 3D design, 3D printing, soldering and microcontrollers. The general structure of the workshops consist of an introduction, theoretical part and then time to work hands-on whilst supported by LPL staff. We try to tailor each workshop to its participants, so let us know what your goals are!

By default, all workshops are hosted in Lili’s Proto Lab (Caroline Bleekergebouw 0.22). Because our workshops benefit from direct interaction we limit the group size to approximately 12 persons.

Let’s learn some new skills! Here are the upcoming workshop dates:

Skill level required: None.
Open to: Students and staff regardless of position or faculty.
End goal: To be able to solder a range of basic components including resistors and LEDS; to leave with Christmas cheer and a fancy ornament.
Time investment: 1 – 2 hours

This is a beginner friendly soldering workshop where you will leave with your own soldered functional item. You will learn some basics on electronic components, circuitry and soldering technique. After that, you start soldering your own device! We supply the materials, soldering equipment, instructions and tips. Depending on your experience level this will take you 1-2 hours and will make you a lot more proficient in soldering.

Skill level required: None.
Open to: Students and staff regardless of position.
End goal: You can independently FDM 3D print an existing design in PLA on our printers, and have an idea of the broader possibilities and limitations of 3D printing
Time investment: 2 hours

We will introduce you to the most widely used 3D printing techniques, FDM and SLA, and show you their possibilities and limitations. We cover design options, materials, pitfalls and hands-on interaction. The first half of the workshop is very theoretical and the second half you will start to be involved. Those who dare may even choose to make their first print! This workshop becomes even better if you bring your own design to print.

NB: On youtube we have a 3D printing crash course film. If you are unable to join our workshop, the film can give you a limited understanding.

Starter Guide for 3D printing at Lili's Proto Lab (youtube.com)

Skill level required: None.
Open to: Students and staff regardless of position.
End goal: You are able to create a single-part design completely parametrically defined. You will understand the most essential tools in Fusion 360, and know what differentiates a decent design from a great one
Time investment: 2 hours
Materials required: Laptop (Windows or Mac) with Autodesk Fusion 360 installed (free academic license HERE, system requirements HERE), mouse (it is much harder on a trackpad or touchscreen!), optionally an idea for a part to design

In this workshop you will learn the basics of parametric 3D design; the method of choice for functional parts. We will focus on the thought process required for effective design, explain the basic tools and concepts and get you started on your first design. You will start following us step-by-step, click for click and then slowly get the freedom to start designing your own components.

A custom temperature monitoring device for your lab? A smart plant-watering apparatus? It's simpler than you think, by harnessing the power of the Arduino platform! In this recurring workshop series you will learn the basics of Arduino programming, circuits, sensors and actuators.

The first iteration of this series will take place in September 2024. Keep an eye on our newsletter for news on dates and sign-up options.

Skills Workshops

Soldering

FDM 3D printing basics

3D design with Fusion 360

Arduino workshop

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