As part of the architecture department efforts in providing more engaging and hands-on learning experiences in courses, students of the course DDFT 341 (Digital Design and Fabrication) taught by Associate Professor of Architecture Jose Carrillo, participated in a 3D printing workshop at the “Makerspace” in Al Quoz. The workshop, which was a collaboration between AUD, Bright Mind and Origin Base aimed at introducing 3D printing technologies to students, and fulfilling with the course objective of “offering students an insight on emerging digital design and fabrication repertoire”.

DDFT 341, provides both the conceptual framework and the practical skills for understanding digital design media. In-class, the students learn how to design complex 3D geometric shapes using Rhino and related plug-ins. At the workshop, students had the opportunity to further these design skills by learning about digital fabrication methodologies such as laser cutting, CNC routing and 3D printing.

Professor Jose says “It was a great learning experience to collaborate with emerging product design companies such as Bright mind and Origin Base, not only to show students the lengths and limitations of 3D printing but at the same time introduce them to professionals in the market for future references and collaborations.”

The workshop was divided into four parts ranging from lectures to discussions, providing students a spectrum of learning during their day at the Makerspace.

• During the first part of the workshop, students were introduced to the basics of 3D printing, different types of printing methods and fabrication available and their use in the design market. Each group was given samples of printed objects to explain each concept.
• Later, students learned the ‘how to’ of preparing files ready to be loaded into 3D printers. This enabled them to convert the 3D models that they have worked on during the semester into printable files.
• After a short break, students had the opportunity to experiment with methods of post-production such as gluing, painting, cutting and orienting 3D models to achieve high-quality final products.
• Following this immersive session, students were allowed an open platform to engage in the discussion about 3D printing, ask questions and look at different pre-prepared physical examples of printed objects.

The afternoon of the workshop was a fun experience and a huge success. Students enjoyed it as well as gained new aspects related to digital fabrication. Zeyad Nader, founder of Bright Mind product design says: “We hope we managed to add some value to the student's understanding of 3D printing, and maybe even got some of them excited to learn more about this domain in the future”. Hebah Qatanani, Teaching Assistant of DDFT341 course says: “In the end, the workshop opened an opportunity for future collaboration with professionals from disciplines of 3D printing and technology and we are hoping to duplicate this workshop in future semesters”.