COVID-19 Response

The Bray Lab PALLS (Precision Advanced Learning Labs and Shops) will be operating as a job shop for the Spring of 2022 to prioritize keeping our Tufts Community safe.

Instead of using Project Assistance in Bray, you can submit requests for Parts, Mechanical Analysis Testing, and Motion Capture Lab Services. Due to the increased workload this semester, we are only able to support courses and research (no personal or club projects).

Bray Lab students and staff are available to help you with your project.

General Assistance

Design
Solidworks (inc. FEA)

You can visit us in the Machine Shop or complete the below form.

Machines

Some machines require advanced knowledge to operate. In these cases, a Bray Lab student employee will help you through the fabrication process.

Haas Mini Mill
Haas VF2
Instron 5800R Tensile and Compression Test System 
Markforged 3D Printer
Rockwell Hardness Tester
Shopbot Desktop CNC Router
Vicon Motion Capture System

Instructions

You are welcome to stop by the Machine Shop to discuss your project before using the below procedure.

  1. Complete the Project Assistance Request Form by logging into the website.
    • Please include a part file if you need assistance with a fabrication machine.
      Haas Mini Mill: submit 3D Solidworks (.sldprt or .sldasm)
      Markforged 3D Printer: submit 3D design (.stl) files
      Shopbot Desktop CNC Router: submit 2D design (.dxf) or 3D design (.stl)
  2. A Bray Lab employee will contact you in the next business day to setup a meeting to discuss the project. Including (if applicable):
    • Different fabrication and testing techniques
    • Limitations of the machine and design changes to receive the best result
    • Material selection and tolerances
  3. A Bray Lab employee will help you operate any needed equipment.

Additional Requirements:

We may request a prototype of the part to ensure it is the correct size, shape and tolerance. Parts can be prototyped with cardboard, Desktop 3D printers, or foam.