Located on the Cheney campus in the Computing and Engineering Building, Room 125 (CEB 125), the Ideation Lab is a dynamic resource designed to foster “Innovation through Play.” This philosophy highlights the idea that creativity thrives when individuals are relaxed, having fun, and open to new possibilities.
The Lab is staffed by skilled student employees from a variety of disciplines, including engineering, business, and education who can support you at every stage of the creative process – whether you’re brainstorming new ideas, developing prototypes, or moving into initial production.
The Ideation Lab is equipped with a wide range of resources to support various projects. Numerous 3D printers and a laser engraver are available for prototyping and modeling. We also offer textile work, including a room for sewing with attached private fitting room, and vinyl stencils. Additionally, the Lab provides games, supplies, and worktables to encourage creativity and collaboration. If a project exceeds the scope of the Ideation Lab, students have access to 25,000 square feet of manufacturing space within the building, which includes a metal and welding shop, wood shop, composites and polymer shop, and a variety of specialized machinery and services. For soldering and electrical projects, special access can be granted to the Robotics Lab.
To get started with a project, visit our Project page for details, come visit the Lab in CEB 125 during open hours to talk with a staff member, or send us an email here.
Textiles
The Ideation lab features multiple adjustable mannequins for measuring and fitting clothes. There is also drafting table, used for pattern-making or fabric cutting. Various tools and equipment, such as irons and fabric steamers, are stored on countertops and cabinets, ensuring easy access for garment construction and finishing.
The textiles lab is a well-equipped workspace for sewing, garment construction, and other textile-related projects, featuring multiple sewing stations, a sturdy work table, and essential tools like scissors and thread spools. In addition to these, the lab includes a laminator for protecting and enhancing designs and a Cricut cutting machine for precise cutting of various materials, enabling the creation of stencils, heat transfer designs, and other embellishments. These tools expand the lab’s capabilities, supporting a wide range of creative and crafting possibilities.
3-D Printing
The Ideation Lab boasts a collection of 3-D printers to support creativity and hands-on projects. These printers can work with the following materials:
Plastics – PLA, TPU, PETG, ABS, SST, BST
Fibers – Carbon fiber, fiberglass, Kevlar
Resin – DLP UV Resin
These printers give students and staff flexibility depending on the nature of their project, from engineering prototypes to artistic creations. It’s a space where you can turn your ideas into real objects, making it a valuable resource for exploring new possibilities and bringing your projects to life.
Our Equipment
In addition to power tools, art supplies, soldering and electrical station, and woodworking tools, we also currently have the following equipment available in the Lab:
- MarkForged 3D Printer Mark Two
- Omtech Laser Engraver MF2028-100
- Singer Sewing Machine MX60
- Vevor Dewing Machine JK-9803
- Creality 3D Printer CR-10 S4
- Statasys 3D Printer SSt 1200ES
- Stratasys 3D Printer F170
- Elegoo 3D Printer Jupiter 6k
- Ender 3 S1 Pro
