SIAT Solid Space Fabrication and Prototyping Lab at SFU

The SIAT Solid Space Fabrication and Prototyping Lab at Simon Fraser University (SFU) is a hands-on digital fabrication facility for SIAT students, faculty and researchers. The lab provides access to CNC routing, laser cutting, 3D printing, woodworking and prototyping equipment for transforming digital designs and research concepts into physical prototypes.

Whether you are developing a course project, building an interactive prototype or fabricating components for academic research, the Solid Space Lab provides professional equipment, technical support and supervised access within the SFU SIAT community.

Digital Fabrication and Prototyping Equipment at SFU

The SIAT Solid Space Lab combines digital manufacturing technologies with traditional fabrication tools, allowing users to move from CAD and digital designs to functional physical prototypes.

• ShopBot Desktop MAX CNC Router: 36" x 24" CNC routing system for precision cutting, shaping and prototype fabrication.
• Universal Laser Cutters: 48" x 24" dual-laser and 32" x 18" systems for laser cutting and engraving compatible plastics, wood, textiles and other materials.
• Stratasys F370 3D Printer: Professional additive manufacturing with materials including ABS, TPU and ASA.
• Ultimaker and Dremel 3D Printers: Desktop 3D printing for prototypes, models and PLA components.
• Shaper Origin: Portable handheld CNC router for digitally guided cutting and fabrication.

CNC Routing and Digital Fabrication for SIAT Projects

The ShopBot Desktop MAX CNC router provides SIAT students and researchers with computer-controlled fabrication capabilities for creating precise parts, models and prototypes. Its 36" x 24" working area supports projects ranging from experimental designs to components for interactive systems and research prototypes.

The Shaper Origin handheld CNC router provides an additional approach to digitally assisted fabrication for projects requiring more flexible routing and cutting.

Laser Cutting and Engraving at SFU

The Solid Space Lab provides laser cutting and engraving equipment for SIAT students and researchers. Universal Laser Systems machines with working areas up to 48" x 24" can process compatible materials including plastics, wood and textiles.

Laser fabrication is suitable for architectural and design models, enclosures, prototypes, precision-cut components, research projects and other digital fabrication applications.

3D Printing and Rapid Prototyping at SFU

For 3D printing and rapid prototyping at Simon Fraser University, the lab provides Stratasys, Ultimaker and Dremel 3D printers.

The Stratasys F370 supports materials including ABS, TPU and ASA, while additional desktop printers provide options for PLA fabrication. These technologies allow students and researchers to quickly transform 3D models into physical prototypes, test components and design iterations.

Woodworking and Manual Fabrication Equipment

In addition to digital fabrication machines, Solid Space provides woodworking and manual tools for prototype construction and finishing.

• SawStop table saw and router table with Bosch router
• Felder band saw
• Benchtop mill
• Variable-speed drill press
• Festool mitre saw and track saw
• Handheld routers, jigsaws, drills and additional fabrication tools

Please note that the lab does not provide planers or jointers, so projects involving solid lumber may require external resources. Spray finishing and most metalworking are also unavailable because of space and resource limitations.

Who Can Use the SIAT Solid Space Lab?

The fabrication and prototyping lab is available to SIAT undergraduate students, graduate students, faculty and researchers. Access is by appointment, and users working with equipment in person must be supervised by Solid Space staff.

Location: SRYC 3701 & 3702, Podium 3, across from the SFU IT Service Desk.
Production Technologist Office: SRYC 3703, inside the entrance to 3700.
Lab Hours: Monday–Thursday, 9:00am–4:30pm.
Access: Card or key entry, by appointment only.

Safety Training for CNC, Laser Cutting and Fabrication

Students who want to operate machines in person must complete the required Solid Space safety training. This includes the online Canvas safety course and an in-person shop safety orientation.

Safety training has cut-off dates during each semester, so users should complete the requirements before planning fabrication work.

For 3D printing and laser cutting services, properly formatted files can be submitted to the lab. Fees may apply, and course-related work may receive priority.

Lab Fees and Course Projects

Basic materials and limited 3D printing are included at registration for IAT 233, IAT 336 and IAT 437. Fees may apply to other projects, materials and fabrication services.

Research expenses can be charged to a research account, while other payments can be arranged through SIAT office staff.

Book the SIAT Solid Space Fabrication Lab

To use the SIAT Solid Space Fabrication and Prototyping Lab at SFU, review the available equipment, complete the required safety training and reserve an appointment.

1. Choose the fabrication equipment required for your project.
2. Complete the online and in-person safety training required for machine use.
3. Book an appointment by emailing [email protected].
4. Consult the production technologist if you need assistance planning your fabrication process.

General Booking: [email protected]
Phone: 778-782-8911

From CNC routing and laser cutting to 3D printing and rapid prototyping, the SIAT Solid Space Lab gives the SFU community access to the tools and technical support needed to transform digital designs into physical prototypes.

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