Virtual Reality Hardware for VR Education, Outreach, and Education Research

Physics

Requested:

$14,939

Status:

Funded

Awarded:

$14,939

Abstract

The UW Physics Education Research Group (PEG) seeks to acquire a virtual reality (VR) workstation and a class set (30) of Oculus Quest VR headsets to achieve the following goals: 1. Enable UW students and faculty working on VR development and research to perform user testing for their applications; 2. Make high-throughput VR activities by UW RSOs possible; 3. Open the field of VR physics education research to students working with PEG; 4. Provide UW instructors the opportunity to include VR experiences as part of their curriculum; 5. Launch a pilot program to bring VR into introductory physics laboratories beginning Summer 2019. Through these objectives, this project will aid in maintaining UW's position on the forefront of innovation in the fields of VR and interactive education, opening the door for UW researchers at all levels to begin work in the field of VR education research from its outset.

High performance computers for analysis of large datasets from imaging technologies

Department of Biology

Requested:

$48,696

Status:

Funded

Awarded:

$48,696

Abstract

This proposal seeks Student Technology Fee funding to purchase three high-performance computing workstations for the visualization and analysis of large datasets produced via modern imaging technologies, including micro-Computed Tomography and laser scanning. These workstations will enable undergraduate and graduate student training on a variety of software tools to visualize, measure, and model 3D digital representations of biological structures, thereby contributing to the preparation of students for careers in diverse fields.

An Upgrade for the SEFS Shared Student Molecular Laboratory

School of Environmental and Forest Sciences

Requested:

$106,183

Status:

Funded

Awarded:

$106,183

Abstract

The School of Environmental and Forest Sciences (SEFS) is home to many undergraduate and graduate students working on a broad range of projects to fulfill internships, research assistantships, capstone projects, master's theses, and doctoral dissertations. The student community invests in collaborative efforts that stretch outside of the department and even outside of the College of Environment. Many of these projects are exploring questions at the molecular level, which requires a well-equipped molecular lab. Over the last 10-15 years, the demand for these types of labs has grown exponentially, as many research ideas and questions would not be able to be executed without them. In 2016, STF funded a grant (2016-27) that allowed SEFS to open a shared student molecular laboratory, which has been very successful. Under the oversight of Professor Prugh and the lab manager, this shared lab has provided an inclusive environment where students can implement their protocols and complete projects without being charged a cost-per-use fee. However, as molecular technology advances, so do protocols/techniques. Many of these advancements require equipment that was not originally purchased. We request funds to secure the equipment needed for students to sufficiently obtain and validate molecular-based data. This grant is student driven and is supported by faculty and staff. All requested items are based on student feedback from the last two years.

Paint booth and particulate filtration for improved project finishwork and coatings

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Requested:

$10,234

Status:

Funded

Awarded:

$10,234

Abstract

As part of capstone projects, almost every single College of Engineering student will fabricate a part or machine during their education at UW. The last step in fabrication is often painting or coating, which is sometimes just as essential as the shape or material of the part. The ME staff get many inquiries about painting facilities, and for now students make do in less than ideal conditions, such as painting off campus, painting under welding hoods, or painting in labs without adequate ventilation. A paint booth and particulate filters will give students a dedicated space for painting and finishwork, which will both protect student health and will result in higher quality work. Paint and surface coats are essential to the function of many parts, for corrosion resistance in wet environments, for aerodynamic properties, or because the colors are essential to the user experience. A fresh coat of paint or a glossy lacquer can be the difference between a part that looks amateurish and professional. Painting or coating molds is and essential part of the process to manufacture foam molds for composite parts. An increasingly common mechanical testing technique, DIC, requires that parts are painted in a speckle pattern before testing.

Safer tool holding, and better machining access for a diverse physical population

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Requested:

$9,881

Status:

Funded

Awarded:

$9,881

Abstract

One of the most heavily used resources In the Mechanical Engineering Prototype labs are the 2-axis manual/CNC knee mills in the machine shop. These mills are the basis for a functional machine shop, and produce more parts than any machine in the shop. Loading and unloading tools from the machine can be difficult for users who are below 6ft tall, or have certain physical disabilities. Installing a quick tool changer would make access easier for these users, and safer for all users.

Center for International Relations and Cultural Leadership Exchange (CIRCLE)

Requested:

$12,797

Status:

Funded

Awarded:

$12,797

Abstract

CIRCLE will be a new department on campus that will serve as the hub for international student support and engagement. In addition, CIRCLE will provide intentional and purposeful engagement opportunities for both domestic and international students so that they mutually learn from one another while gaining the necessary skills to thrive in the global economy. As part of the strategy to make CIRCLE a “home away from home” for students, there is emphasis on creating a space that is student-centered and conducive to relationship building and learning. Technology will play an integral role in the services that CIRCLE will provide. Ranging from an electronic check-in system to a comprehensive digital infrastructure to allow for relationship building across the globe, CIRCLE will leverage technology so that targeted outreach and information sharing can help the department tailor services to meet the current needs of students. Finally, the CIRCLE lounge will serve as a versatile space for students to relax and as an avenue for student organizations or other campus units to host workshops/events with a global focus or to connect with peers at different institutions worldwide.

New Clients for Virtual Computing

School of Environmental and Forest Sciences

Requested:

$21,414

Status:

Funded

Awarded:

$21,414

Abstract

During the 2017 proposal cycle the School of Environmental and Forestry Sciences was awarded proposal 2017-94, Virtual Computing Refresh, which was a refresh of the hardware platform running VMware's Horizon Virtual Desktops. Now that the platform has been refreshed it is time to refresh the thin clients that are used to connect to the desktops from our computer labs. These clients are five years old and do not have the features to maximize the students computing experience.

ME Shops & Collaborative Projects Manufacturing Equipment Upgrades

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Requested:

$13,742

Status:

Funded

Awarded:

$13,742

Abstract

We are requesting funds to acquire a CNC foam cutter, vacuum bag leak detector and large format, multi-material, filtered 3D printer. They are to be hosted by the Department of Mechanical Engineering Machine & Composite shops for use by the greater student body. The goal is to make more advanced technology available to students, exposing them to a higher standard of manufacturing across some of the rapidly developing solutions in the industry: composites and 3D Printing.

Libraries' Print Release Station Upgrade

Creative Communications

Requested:

$96,653

Status:

Funded

Awarded:

$96,653

Abstract

The Library Steering Committee, a committee comprised of UW Library leads and Creative Communications members have requested that Dawg Prints upgrades the computers stationed next to the printers to further increase accessibility for students with disabilities. In order to achieve this goal, Dawg Prints requests the funds to replace our aging release station fleet in all UW Libraries, dormitories, and computer labs on campus and the funds to maintain the new equipment to further improve the accessibility of our printers. Referred to as print release stations, these computers provides the means for students to access their print jobs and release them to the accompanying printer at each location. With the addition of touchscreen capabilities, updated software and uniform equipment, this will make printing more reliable and accessible for all UW students at all times.

Updating and Expanding 3D Scanning and Printing Capabilities for the Department of Anthropology

Department of Anthropology

Requested:

$29,044

Status:

Funded

Awarded:

$29,044

Abstract

Anthropology undergraduate and graduate students have been 3D scanning and printing casts of fossil hominin material for use as a resource for student research projects. Continued scan and print quality problems have impacted this process significantly, especially with regards to the precision and accuracy of the prints produced. We are seeking funding to replace the current 3D scanner and 3D printer with higher-precision models to produce research-quality fossil casts and create a digital collection for student research. This application is a modified resubmission of a previous application (ID: 2017-69).

Funding Status: Funded