FabLab ÉvoraTech
Published on 29 May 2018
Portugal
Alentejo
This is the good practice's implementation level. It can be national, regional or local.
About this good practice
A fab lab (fabrication laboratory) is a small-scale workshop offering (personal) digital fabrication.
The fab lab program was initiated to broadly explore how the content of information relates to its physical representation and how an under-served community can be powered by technology at the grassroots level
A fab lab is generally equipped with an array of flexible computer-controlled tools that cover several different length scales and various materials, with the aim to make "almost anything". This includes technology-enabled products generally perceived as limited to mass production.
While fab labs have yet to compete with mass production and its associated economies of scale in fabricating widely distributed products, they have already shown the potential to empower individuals to create smart devices for themselves. These devices can be tailored to local or personal needs in ways that are not practical or economical using mass production.
The fab lab movement is closely aligned with the DIY, the open source hardware and the free and open source movement, and shares philosophy as also technology with them.
Currently we have a diverse ecosystem stakeholder, from university, private companies, municipalities, schools, technologies volunteer groups and general public.
The fab lab program was initiated to broadly explore how the content of information relates to its physical representation and how an under-served community can be powered by technology at the grassroots level
A fab lab is generally equipped with an array of flexible computer-controlled tools that cover several different length scales and various materials, with the aim to make "almost anything". This includes technology-enabled products generally perceived as limited to mass production.
While fab labs have yet to compete with mass production and its associated economies of scale in fabricating widely distributed products, they have already shown the potential to empower individuals to create smart devices for themselves. These devices can be tailored to local or personal needs in ways that are not practical or economical using mass production.
The fab lab movement is closely aligned with the DIY, the open source hardware and the free and open source movement, and shares philosophy as also technology with them.
Currently we have a diverse ecosystem stakeholder, from university, private companies, municipalities, schools, technologies volunteer groups and general public.
Resources needed
Human Resources: technicians with knowledge in 3D modelation, electronics and software programming; Equipment: 3d printer, CNC machinery, laser cutter machine, electronic kits ( as Lego, Little bits, Arduino, raspberry, sensors, etc..), vinyl cutters, software cad/cam and vector edition software,etc
Evidence of success
- FabLabs have the potential to empower individuals to create smart devices for themselves, thus encouraging entrepreneurship;- The investment far exceeds the purchase price you and others will pay for a finished product;- Use of fabrication facilities are no charge by appointment to construct DIY. The monetary investment and effort reduces cost to materials alone. If you are new to a fabrication process, a network of experienced individuals will donate their time to help you
Potential for learning or transfer
Fab Labs must participate in the larger, global Fab Lab network, that is, you can’t isolate yourself. This is about being part of a global, knowledge-sharing community.
Ways FabLabs connect:
- The public videoconference;
- Attending the annual Fab Lab meeting;
- Collaborating and partnering with other labs in the network on workshops, challenges or projects;
- Participating in Fab Academy
Ways FabLabs connect:
- The public videoconference;
- Attending the annual Fab Lab meeting;
- Collaborating and partnering with other labs in the network on workshops, challenges or projects;
- Participating in Fab Academy
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Organisation
ADRAL - Agência de Desenvolvimento Regional do Alentejo, S.A.
Portugal
Alentejo
Contact