Proposals

Abstract

We request funds to purchase a machine for laser cutting, marking, and engraving that will be located in the Student Innovation Center (SIC, https://sites.uw.edu/innovation/), which is based in the Department of Chemistry and is available to all UW students. Laser machining is a precise process used to cut parts from a wide variety of materials, including paper, wood, plastics, and rubbers. It can also mark and engrave many additional materials, including glass and bare metals when coated with a metal marking solution. Facile access to laser machining is critical for those who iteratively design and fabricate their own tools and instrumentation; this equipment will benefit hundreds of UW students. More generally, students will benefit from exposure to equipment and skills that are widely used in industry as they prepare themselves for their future careers. The specific system requested is complementary to the other fabrication equipment in the SIC and has great synergy with the other systems on campus that students can access.