Advanced Fabrication and Systems Integration
Anticipated Time to Credential: 60 hours | Cost Estimate: $875
(**Additional costs associated with this course are the responsibility of the student or school district. Costs are related to materials needed to complete weekly and the capstone projects. Weekly projects cost ~$50/weekly project and ~$200 for capstone project.)
This capstone credential challenges students to design and construct advanced, networked, and mechanical systems that demonstrate the integration of multiple digital fabrication competencies. It emphasizes teamwork, iterative design, and comprehensive system integration.
Upon successful completion and passing of this course, you will be eligible for the Advanced Fabrication and Systems Integration Credential offered by The PAST Foundation’s Innovation FabLab. This credential is endorsed by esteemed industry partners, including The Honda Corporation, Honeywell, SenseIC, and The Fab Foundation.
If you are a teacher who has already completed this credential and have access to the necessary equipment you are eligible to have students participate in this credential course. Please contact the PAST Foundation Fab Lab at fablab@pastfoundation.org.
Course Overview
This capstone credential challenges students to design and construct advanced, networked, and mechanical systems that demonstrate the integration of multiple digital fabrication competencies. It emphasizes teamwork, iterative design, and comprehensive system integration.
Upon successful completion and passing of this course, you will be eligible for the Advanced Fabrication and Systems Integration Credential offered by The PAST Foundation’s Innovation FabLab. This credential is endorsed by esteemed industry partners, including The Honda Corporation, Honeywell, SenseIC, and The Fab Foundation.
If you are a teacher who has already completed this credential and have access to the necessary equipment you are eligible to have students participate in this credential course. Please contact the PAST Foundation Fab Lab at fablab@pastfoundation.org.
What You'll Explore
Performance Indicators
Fabricated Components and Systems:
Design, program, and network fabricated components and systems.
Develop a functional mechanical machine.
Integrated and Smart Systems:
Implement digital fabrication workflows to create integrated, intelligent systems.
Oversee project management and maintain comprehensive digital project documentation.
System Integration and End-User Functionality:
Demonstrate system integration and end-user functionality through a final capstone project.
Key Competencies
Mechanical Machine Design
Networking & Communication Protocols
System Integration (Digital + Physical + Code)
Production and use of block/system diagrams and wiring schematics.
Embedding and synchronizing code for coordinated operation of subsystems.
Physical integration of components: mounting, alignment, cabling, and enclosure design.
Developing and running integration and quality assurance (QA/QC) tests for full-system verification.
Capstone Project Execution and Documentation
Industry Portfolio Development
Skills You'll Learn
Hardware/Software Interfacing
Students will acquire knowledge of Network Design Workflows, encompassing the planning and implementation of workflows for connecting electronic devices, both wired and wireless.
Students will acquire knowledge in Protocol Implementation and Interpretation. They will gain practical experience in implementing, testing, and interpreting various networking and communication protocols, including I2C, SPI, UART, and custom protocols, to enable devices to exchange data.
Students will acquire knowledge in Node Design and Addressing. This involves designing, constructing, and connecting nodes (devices) that can communicate effectively within a network. Additionally, students will learn how to assign addresses and ensure the smooth flow of data.
Troubleshooting and Documentation: They document their processes and troubleshoot issues, learning to analyze data transmission and resolve communication errors
Mechanical machine design (structure, movement, function)
Students will design, plan, and build mechanical systems, integrating mechanisms, actuation (motors, servos), and automation (control systems).
Students will apply technical problem-solving skills through iterative prototyping and testing. They will analyze technical challenges, develop solutions, and refine designs based on test results and feedback.
Students will apply Continuous Improvement principles, learning to identify and implement design enhancements that optimize functionality, manufacturability, and user experience.
Students will acquire Project Management skills through group assignments, which will enable them to effectively divide tasks, estimate time, and monitor project progress.
System integration
Students will create and document detailed system diagrams showing connections between electronics, mechanics, and software components
Students will apply project management skills, including time planning, supply management, and documentation of integration and testing processes.
Students will have awareness of lifecycle issues—maintenance, repair, upgradability, and end-of-life considerations for the system as a whole.
Other Skills Demonstrated Through Completion of Capstone Project
System integration and prototyping
Custom tool/path creation for specialized production
Digital Fabrication
Integrated Product Design: Students create unique products that combine multiple digital fabrication processes, such as 2D and 3D modeling, laser cutting, CNC milling, and 3D printing.
2D & 3D Modeling: Competency in computer-aided design (CAD) tools for both 2D and 3D modeling is developed, with these skills directly applied to project work.
Process Selection and Application: Students learn to select and apply the most appropriate additive (e.g., 3D printing) and subtractive (e.g., CNC milling, laser cutting) fabrication processes for their designs.
Comprehensive Documentation: A crucial skill is documenting every step of the design and fabrication process, including successes, failures, and solutions. This not only demonstrates competency but also supports reproducibility and knowledge sharing
Data analysis
Innovation and iteration in physical and digital systems
Technical leadership and decision-making
Design-for-manufacturing mindset
Process improvement skills
Industry Jobs You Can Obtain With This Credential
Alignment with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model
The skills and competencies found in the Advanced Fabrication and Systems Integration course are highly aligned with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model, which emphasizes mechanical machine design, digital fabrication, networking and communication protocols, integration of hardware/software, project management, documentation, and continuous improvement as critical success areas for manufacturing careers in Ohio.
Alignment to Advanced CTE and Credentials Matter
The competencies, performance indicators, and skills found in the Advanced Fabrication and Systems Integration course closely align with the principles and structures of Advanced CTE, especially within the STEM, Engineering & Technology, and Manufacturing Career Clusters.