The Lichtenberger Engineering Library opened a new resource center called Creative Space, in which users can explore new technology such as virtual reality and 3-D scanning.
By Elianna Novitch
A new space in the Lichtenberger Engineering Library was created to encourage innovation and creativity in engineering students and faculty.
Dubbed the Creative Space, users in the location can explore new technology such as virtual reality and 3-D scanning.
“The idea for the Creative Space came from many different people and from looking at other creative spaces around the U.S. and the world,” library head Kari Kozak said. “We already had a tool library in place, so this was our chance to expand on it, to add more items that focus on creating and designing.”
The Creative Space is located in the library on the second floor of the Seamans Center.
“I think the library is the ideal place for a space like this, because libraries are meant to be a place you can gather information and share it with others,” Kozak said. “It’s a neutral ground for anyone, no matter their major, to really explore their ideas, gather the information they need, and to create.”
Some of the technology located in the space that users have access to includes 3-D scanners, virtual-reality apparatuses, collaboration tables, and stations for 3-D printing and prototyping.
“It’s great that students have access to experiment with this kind of technology because often this kind of high-tech is located in research labs and not available for everybody to use,” UI graduate student Salvador Rojas Murillo said.
Technology in the space is available to any student who requests it.
“A very popular thing with students that I have noticed is the virtual reality. They like to play around and have fun with it,” Rojas Murillo said. “I don’t think it’s wrong that people try things and play around with them, because by doing that you open your mind and bring new ideas about what you can do.”
The virtual-reality station includes various instruments that help users explore its functions.
Some of these instruments include Leap Motion controllers, which are programmed to sense the movement of the user’s hands and render the actions carried out with them in VR, and a headset called the Oculus Rift, which allows users to experience virtual-reality environments with their eyes.
“My favorite part of this space is the variety. We hope that no matter what your idea or project is, we have something that might help you make it a reality,” Kozak said.
Engineering student Abby Krueger said she is excited to explore the space and see what designs she can develop.
“This space encourages engineers to think of ideas outside of the classroom,” she said. “I think the 3-D printer is great because it allows you to take your idea and see it come to life as opposed to just seeing it on paper.”
The 3-D printer works in tandem with the 3-D scanner, which is also in the library, to allow users the ability to design and then physically print their creations.
“You can build better models, develop ideas, and see if you like what you designed with these [3-D scanners and printers],” Rojas Murillo said. “This allows you to go back and modify until you have your final design.”
Kozak hopes that the Creative Space will help users spark their imaginations and help them turn their ideas into a reality.
“The goal of this space is to be a place to get you started thinking about your ideas and have a chance to explore what is out there,” she said.
