Computing the future
The iLab is a dynamic, high-powered computer lab that is home to a variety of innovative state-of-the-art technologies to support research and creative activities in areas such as computer science, machine learning, data visualizations, VR/AR, gaming, and more.
Technology and instrumentation
High-powered computing
Desktop computers (Windows) equipped with components capable of running hardware-intensive programs and tasks, including but not limited to: data visualizations, video rendering, gaming, machine learning applications.
MetaQuest 3 VR/AR Headsets
MetaQuest 3 VR/AR Headsets: Virtual / augmented reality headsets enabling researchers to explore tools and the research potential of simulated environments.
Bambu Lab 3D Printing
3D printer and studio software to support research involving printable components and small-scale product design.
Current students and employees should follow the 3D printing guidelines below.
iLab 3D printing guidelines
The Bambu Lab X1 Carbon 3D printer is owned by the School of Information Sciences (SIS). SIS stipulates the following guidelines, so the resource may be used by all CCI faculty, staff, and students for class or research-related activities.
CCI is partnering with SIS to support the sharing of the 3D printer by providing 3D printer management through RIC’s CCI Innovation Labs.
Overview
CCI faculty, staff, and students can request to use the printer for any class or research-related activities.
Guidelines for 3D printer usage
For projects not funded by sponsored research, creative activity, or teaching
- All 3D printer users must submit a “Request to Use” email to the Lab Manager, Logan Montuori ([email protected]), no less than 2 business days prior to use.
- Email should include:
- Role in CCI (staff, faculty, student)
- Requested printer access date and time
- .STL file (The file to print)
- Project information
- Project name
- Class or research project description
- For students: Name of instructor or faculty advisor
- Project due date
- Email should include:
- Training to use the 3D printer is required:
- Preferred Practice: Library-provided training certificate
- Must submit certification to the Lab Manager before scheduling your access to the 3D printer.
- One-hour training session through the Lab Manager is available.
- Faculty and staff may request the Lab Manager to assist with the printing process. Additional consultation will be required.
- Preferred Practice: Library-provided training certificate
- Basic filament in a variety of colors will be provided by the CCI Innovation Labs for class and research-related activities.
- 3D printer users may purchase their own filament if the desired color or type is not readily available.
- You may only use compatible filament types designated by the Bambu Lab filament guide.
- We work to meet all project needs. All requests will be reviewed to ensure we have the capability to do so. For example, large projects (~800g+) may require additional consultation.
- 3D printer users may purchase their own filament if the desired color or type is not readily available.
For projects funded by sponsored research, creative activity, or teaching
Proposal Development
- Reach out to the Lab Manager via email to request a cost estimate for your project proposal budget.
- Include:
- .STL file (The file to print)
- Do you want 3D printer access or the Lab Manager to assist with the printing process?
- Project (working) title
- Sponsor name & estimated funding start date (e.g. Spring 2027)
- Have you already Tapped the Torch?
- Include:
- Cost estimate will be provided within 2 business days, and include:
- The estimated filament requirement (in grams).
- Filament cost must be part of the proposal estimate. The Lab Manager will provide guidance on filament purchasing.
- You may only use compatible filament types designated by the Bambu Lab filament guide.
- Cost for technical support, printer maintenance, and management must be part of the proposal estimate.
- Rate: $35/hour (most projects do not exceed 1 hour of support)
- Cost for 1 hour Lab Manager-led training.
- Rate: $36 (waived with certification acquired through the library)
- The estimated filament requirement (in grams).
Awarded projects: scheduling printer time
- Principal investigators or their designate must contact the Lab Manager via email to schedule a time to print.
- Training is required to use the 3D printer:
- Preferred Practice: Library-provided training certificate
- Must submit certification to the Lab Manager before scheduling your access to the 3D printer.
- Email Lab manager to schedule one hour of Lab Manager training if not acquiring library training certificate.
- Preferred Practice: Library-provided training certificate
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