Grant: Applied Research Tools and Instruments Grants

Durham College requests an Applied Research Tools and Instruments Grant to acquire a an advanced electronic prototyping system to develop a Rapid Prototyping method that can turn a concept into a sample circuit board, which is ultimately used to manufacture the new functional product. Since 2009 Durham College has been serving as a hub for industry and college collaboration on applied research projects. To serve the growing needs of the college' research program, a Rapid Prototyper was added recently to quickly develop and refine prototypes at a low cost which is fully integrated with the Computer Aided Design (CAD) system.Currently, the capabilities of the college are limited without the ability to provide additional fabrication and assembly of Printed Circuit Board (PCB) prototypes. To fully address industry needs and to provide all types and manner of prototypes, an additive PCB printer and associated components will provide precise, quick and simple in-house PCB prototyping, delivering PCBs in hours instead of days. The reduction of time and money spent on outsourcing service translates into greater project momentum, increased productivity, and move into commercialization faster. Acquisition of this equipment also will allow the college access to a new way of providing applied research support to local businesses and industry while further anchoring its position at the forefront of the advanced manufacturing industry. Companies will benefit from access to college expertise and resources. Faculty will gain new knowledge and insights to integrate into the curriculum. College students will play an important role in this applied research, and will benefit from a real world, engineering experience that complements their traditional learning experiences.