CCPL Digital Media Lab 3-D Printing Expo
Carmel Clay Public Library, Ind.
Innovation Synopsis
After opening its new Digital Media Lab, the Carmel Clay Public Library found that the community had a tremendous interest in 3-D printing technology. We decided to create and host a 3-D Printing Expo for the community which brought together local businesses, colleges, hobbyists, makerspaces and more in one room.
Challenge/Opportunity
The CCPL Digital Media Lab saw 3-D printer utilization grow by 100% from 2017 to 2018. Classes on 3-D printing are always full. We saw an opportunity to not only make the community more aware of our own services, but also to bring other partners into our community to showcase 3-D printing technology for the entire community. In addition to viewing technology in action, we also wanted the community to have an opportunity to take part in a learning activity.
Key Elements of Innovation
The first element of the Expo was a large room where our partners could exhibit prints, printers and more. The second element was an attached room for breakout sessions, including a demonstration of Autodesk’s Generative Design and a presentation on injection molding given by the Mechanical Engineering Department of IUPUI. The third element of the Expo was a room where TinkerCad drop-in sessions were offered. Attendees could stop by to learn how to design a simple spinning keychain in TinkerCad.
Achieved Outcomes
- 20 partner exhibitors attended and had tables with printers or projects available for the public to view.
- During the five hours the Expo was open, over 600 members of the community attended.
- 45 people attended the demonstration of Autodesk’s Generative Design software.
- 37 people attended the lecture and demonstration on injection molding.
- 65 people did a hands-on TinkerCad activity, designing a rotating keychain.
