Dubai: The public can now have access to 3D printers, laser cutting machines and other technology that help transform creative visions to reality.
This is now possible following the launch of the Fabrication Lab (Fab Lab) projects by the Hamdan Award for Distinguished Academic Performance on Monday as part of Innovation Week.
The Fab Lab is equipped with technological tools and expert guidance which aims to allow visitors to use the resources to innovate and spread the culture of creativity.
The Main Fab Lab is located at the Hamdan Award for Distinguished Academic Performance headquarters and can be accessed by the public (those aged 12 and above) from 8am to 8pm.
Marwa Sahrawi, in charge of Design and Skill Development at the Hamdan Award for Distinguished Academic Performance, said any member of the public who has a project or innovative idea in mind can visit the Fab Lab to transform their vision into a real tangible invention.
“We also have expert trainees and supervisors who can assist visitors when using the machines and tools. Those interested in using the lab can contact us a day before,” she said.
The lab will provide its services to 4,000 members in a year, where they can have access to 3D printers, computers equipped with the latest specialised software in 3D design, and laser cutting division, to name a few.
Marwa said a smaller version of the lab will also open at schools.
The first small Fab Lab has already opened at Omar Bin Al Khattab Model School in Dubai which targeted more than 500 students from grades six and nine.
Marwa said a mobile Fab Lab bus will also be launched to make the lab more accessible to the public in order to spread awareness of what Fab Lab has to offer in terms of technical and training services. Phase 1 will involve introductory tours in Dubai and then eventually extend to other emirates. The project will be launched by the beginning of 2016 and will target 3,000 potential members.
