The CAT Lab in Stony Brook University Libraries became a hub of hands-on engineering this September as student organizations brought two very different workshops into the space. Across two events, students explored everything from NFC technology and 3D printing to soldering and electronic circuits, gaining practical experience by designing, building, and experimenting together.
The events, organized with 3D PATH and the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), also point toward a growing role for the CAT Lab as a place where student organizations can transform their ideas into workshops for the wider Stony Brook community.
3D PATH Combines NFC Technology and 3D Printing
On September 17, 3D PATH, in collaboration with The Space and the CAT Lab, hosted a Personalized 3D-Printed NFC Tag Workshop.
The workshop introduced students to Near Field Communication, or NFC, a short-range wireless technology that allows compatible devices such as smartphones to exchange information when brought close together. NFC Tag & 3D Print Workshop
Students began by programming NFC tags with their phones and learning how the tiny devices work, including the roles of the integrated circuit, antenna, and substrate. NFC Tag & 3D Print Workshop
From there, the workshop moved into digital fabrication. Using Bambu Studio and provided design files, participants customized a 3D model designed to incorporate their NFC tag. The session was structured to move from a brief introduction and demonstration into independent, hands-on work. NFC Tag & 3D Print Workshop NFC Tag & 3D Print Workshop
Completed designs could then be submitted for 3D printing, turning a digital design into a functional object participants could actually use. NFC Tag & 3D Print Workshop
SWE Brings Hands-On Soldering to the CAT Lab
On September 21, the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) brought another kind of hands-on engineering experience to the CAT Lab: soldering and electronics.
Students filled the Lab’s worktables with soldering irons, circuit components, tools, and safety equipment while learning and practicing one of the fundamental skills of electronics fabrication. The workshop was designed to be approachable for beginners while providing the kind of practical hardware experience that can complement engineering coursework.
SWE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women to achieve their full potential as engineers and leaders while promoting diversity, mentoring, professional excellence, and inclusive environments within engineering.
The photographs from the workshop capture exactly what makes this kind of event valuable: students working side by side, concentrating on their projects, comparing their progress, and learning technical skills in a collaborative setting.
And There Is More to Come
The September events are only the beginning.
3D PATH will return to the CAT Lab next month for an introduction to soldering and hands-on electronics, again in collaboration with The Space and the CAT Lab. Students will learn how to safely use a soldering iron, connect electronic components, and construct a simple working circuit, ultimately creating their own custom nightlight.
Another upcoming 3D PATH workshop will combine 3D design, 3D printing, and basic electronics as students create personalized fidget toys incorporating clicker switches.
The NFC workshop presentation also points to additional activities, including an October Toy Adaptation Event and more 3D design and printing workshops. NFC Tag & 3D Print Workshop