Refab-Space
Welcome to Access Space Network's ReFab Space wiki. Here we discuss the progress of Access Space's ReFab Space and the projects that we undertake. ReFab Space operates alongside Access Space, our ground-breaking self-built media lab which is now the longest-running free, open participation media lab in the UK.
Introduction
In 2009 Access Space announced its intention to supplement its free, open access media lab with a new fabrication facility.
A FabLab is a suite of computer-controlled tools which can be programmed to manufacture almost anything! Originated at MIT, the FabLab concept suggests a future model of production which is more localised, and capable of producing unique items just as cheaply as mass-.
Access Space Network is developing the FabLab concept (which includes proprietary, off-the-shelf tools) with the do-it-yourself approach it applied to the media lab. By building the lab ourselves and by deploying free and open source tools, we will not only save resources, we'll also develop higher level skills in the process.
Sustainability (in economic, environmental and social terms) is at the heart of our methodology. ReFab Space investigates recycling, reuse, renewal, repurposing, reimagination and reinvention.
Check out this introduction to see why we're interested and how this concept dovetails with our interests in do-it-yourself, open-source software and technology recycling.
Progress Update
- April 2012: Lots of benches, workspaces and lighting installed
- February 2012: At last we have confirmed funding for the project. Yeeeehah! Immediately we begun buying 22mm Plywood to create workbenches, storage shelves and barriers, and new lighting.
- January 2012: We've shipped out another 4 palettes of surplus PC components, and disposed of a vast quantity of ABS, metal, and cable.
- November 2011: Thanks to the tireless work of volunteers, Platform Two is now complete. Now we have to complete the electrics and lighting. In the meanwhile, the space is already in use in parts for PC and component reuse activities. We've already shipped out more than 6 pallets of surplus equipment.
- May 2011: Undaunted by the huge (now nearly two year) delay in confirmation of funding, we've now started to construct Platform Two which makes great use of bigger, 4.1 metre racking bays.
- April 2011: We've thrown caution to the winds and gone ahead and installed Platform One, using an innovative, superior and cheaper stairwell design.
- March 2011: Access Space's mega recycle days (16-17th) were the first public events where ReFab Space was in use. During the events volunteers processed around 3000kgs (!) of redundant ICT equipment, sorting out re-usables from recyclables.
- March 2011: Our tireless volunteers (led by John Moseley, thanks John!
) have relocated the lighting for Platform One. - August 2010: Progress is now visible! We've broken through into the new unit!
Projects
Organising & Infrastructure
Ideas
- DIY-FabLab an Introduction to the ideas behind the project.
- Our initial Announcement of the project
- Seven Key Points that advocate the DIY FabLab.
- Notes about the significance of bootstrapping.
Technologies
Projects in Refab Space
DIY FabLab Network
We're currently developing an international research network of DIY FabLab practice. We have core partners from various European countries and we're seeking more. Please, get in touch!
- Access Space (Sheffield)
- Banff Centre (Canada)
- Bricolabs (International)
- IoT Council (International)
- MediaLab Prado (Madrid)
- TimeLab (Ghent)
- WebLab.tk / Devisio (Brasil)
- Your Project?
Links
- SHACKnet Sheffield Arduino Hackers Network
- Your Project?
