Design Innovation Commons II: Layout, Processes, Cost

2021-IE

The objective of this project is to design a new laboratory characterized by the convergence of additive manufacturing and metal casting capabilities.

 

Team Members

Samantha Melnik | Kurt Schindler | Elie Boueiri | |

Project Poster

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Project Summary

 

Overview

Penn State Behrend has long been established as a beacon of innovation in the Erie area and has long been known for strong manufacturing industries. Penn State Behrend is looking to increase its current capabilities by expanding its Innovation Commons lab. The purpose of this project is to design from scratch a lab tentatively called Innovation Commons II; whose main purpose is to expand the additive and casting manufacturing potential at Penn State Behrend. Innovation Commons II is intended to be a new space for research and educational purposes, characterized by the convergence of the new, innovative technologies and time-proven processes that make up the additive manufacturing and foundry sectors.

Objectives

  • Identify machines and tools ​
  • Determine maintenance and utility requirements​
  • Produce design layouts ​
  • Perform a cost analysis on equipment, furniture, & infrastructure

Approach

  • Identify machines and tools
    • Worked with research team to expand upon current selection
    • Met with project advisor and sponsors to determine desired capabilities
    • Spoke with equipment representatives to receive quotes and specifications
    • Compiled costs and specifications in shareable database
  • Determine maintenance and utility requirements
    • Gathered information from equipment manuals
    • Met with company representatives to gather maintenance requirements
  • Produce design layouts
    • Met with EHS officials regarding safety requirements
    • Created equipment compatibility charts
    • Developed standardized layouts via AuotCad of varying sizes, capabilities, & costs
    • Created 3D renderings using TwinMotion
  • Perform cost analysis on equipment, furniture, & infrastructure
    • Gathered equipment and furniture costs
    • Infrastructure variable upon location

Outcomes

  • Increase active project capacity
  • Bring new additive and metal casting abilities
  • Increase industry and research opportunities
  • Qualify for additional areas of funding
  • Allow for new courses and labs
  • Improve maximum project complexity