Fabrication and Prototyping in the LearningLab

In this course, students begin by exploring fabrication and prototyping technologies commonly used in the design of digital systems, including microcontroller platforms (Arduino, Raspberry Pi), digital fabrication tools (3D printing, laser cutting), as well as software that facilitate the integration and prototyping of robotic and interactive systems (ROS, Node-RED). This phase, based on theoretical courses and practical exercises, aims to provide students with a common technical base.

Building on this initial experience, the students then work in pairs to apply the skills they have acquired to conceptualize a project and produce a functional demonstrator. The prototypes developed are based on a defined theme, which varies from year to year. Students must demonstrate that they have integrated the various theoretical elements and that their prototype is relevant to the theme.

This year, the theme will be developed in collaboration with Sailing Eicher from the Swiss Paraplegic Centre and Sebastian Tobler from the SCI-Mobility Lab at BFH. They will provide insights into typical challenges encountered by people with mobility impairments.

Within this context, teams of two students will ideate and implement a project aimed at supporting people with mobility disabilities in concrete, real-world situations. Students will rely on a robotic mobile base (TurtleBot3), additional sensors and components (cameras, LEDs, actuators, etc.), and 3D-printed parts to develop and demonstrate a proof of concept.

Course requirements:

  • Basic Linux CLI skills

  • Participants must be able to run Linux (Ubuntu Desktop 20.04) on their computer in order to control the robots used in this course. This can be done by:

    • Installing Linux directly,
    • Using Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) on Windows, or
    • Setting up a dual-boot system.

    Notes:

    • Some recent Mac models (especially those with Apple Silicon/M1/M2 chips) are not compatible with standard Linux installations. Please check your device's compatibility in advance.
    • We may provide access to Linux machines on request (desktop computers from the Learning Lab).

Course agenda

Soon