INTD 216

Choose a path through the semester (using the form below). Paths A, B, C, D and F are paths where you’ll be introduced to lots of different tools and techniques in the Makerspace, so if there is a tool that catches your eye, choose that path. E is a path where you’ll focus on Electronics fundamentals for the entire semester. If that’s interesting to you, choose that one. If you’re not sure what to choose, roll a die and pick a random path!

Click to see the Paths

Rank your path preference here (1st, 2nd, 3rd). I’ll use first come, first served and will balance everyone’s preference as best as I’m able.

Email: dhoughton at midd
Email is the best way to communicate with me. If we’re discussing something via email, please respond to email within 24-48 hrs.

Overview
3D Printing and CNC machining have transformed how objects are designed, prototyped, and manufactured. In this course we will learn fundamental 3D solid modeling techniques, iterative design strategies, and a working knowledge of additive and subtractive manufacturing techniques. Every class will be hands- on and fully immersed in the high-tech tools of the industrial design process. Students will leave with a strong conceptual understanding of 3D Computer Aided Design (CAD), Computer Aided Machining (CAM) and the adventure of CNC milling strong, functional parts. The course will culminate in an independent final project. 3 hrs. lect/lab.

Grades
Grades are earned by completing all of the assignments each week. Most assignments are graded as complete or incomplete. A grade of 0 means I haven’t seen enough evidence to mark the assignment as complete. A grade of 1 means the assignment is complete. The grading philosophy here is that this is an intro course in which you should make contact with LOTS of tools and techniques so you can see which ones you like. Therefore, grading simply reflects whether or not you set aside the time to make contact with the tools and to try out the techniques.

Attendance

Attendance is crucial to this hands-on course. Not only are we establishing the technical foundation that will prepare you for more advanced work in subsequent semesters, we are building a supportive community of practitioners. Timeliness is an important component of that attendance. We work in a collaborative space. Your readiness, promptly, at the start of each session will be much appreciated. And if you must be out for surgery (to get a cool new brain implant!) just email me when you know so that I can plan accordingly. Your attendance grade is based on attending 22 of the 24 sessions of class.

Where to Work

Successfully completing this course will require spending time in the Makerspace outside of class. Please spend all (or almost all) of your time completing assignments or projects in the Makerspace itself. Your presence there will position you closer to the physical aspects of the course. It will position you closer to the community of friendly people who are able to help. And it will inspire others who will notice your presence and wonder what you are up to.

Teaching Assistants

Teaching Assistants will monitor the lab during the hours on the Makerspace calendar. Whenever a time block on that calendar says Open Hours there will be a teaching assistant available in the Makerspace who has experience in aspects of the course. When the calendar says Woodshop Hours, there will be a TA available in the woodshop. Do all of your work during those Open Hours and you’ll have your questions answered 10x more quickly than trying to search for answers out on the internet.

Equipment Access

We are using expensive equipment, a CNC Mill, 6-Axis Robot Arm, Laser Cutters, etc. And for most equipment, there is only one for us to share. Therefore, intro is structured as a massive rotation, so that you are only really sharing gear with 4-5 people. There are plenty of hours each week where you will be guaranteed access to this equipment, but it is dependent on you showing up ready when we’ve all set aside time for you to have the access that you need.

Safety

Every assignment is designed with your safety as the most important component. There is a silly notion in these creative spaces that the most safe strategy is to never get out of bed in the morning. We are seeking a balance where you do, in fact, get out of bed in the morning, but that as you work with our tools and practice our techniques, that you do so as the one in control of the process. If you ever feel out of control, or unable to proceed safely toward the goals of the assignment, it is critical that you come talk to me so that we can find a solution to your concerns (or an alternative end-goal for the assignment). Go slow. Choose easy goals when you are first learning something. Speak up if you need clarification on how to approach any of risks involved in our equipment with a safety strategy that works for you.

Office Hours

Search for my name in the directory for my up-to-date office hours.

Location & Times

The Middlebury Makerspace – Johnson rm. 102

Fall & Spring Semesters
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 12:45 – 2:00pm

About Me

I’ve been teaching Computer Animation at Middlebury College since 2011 and Industrial Design since 2021.

For the first 10 years at Middlebury I ran the Animation Studio at the college where I worked with undergraduate students to produce short animated films, interactive game prototypes and digital art projects.

The next 10 are all about the study of precision manufacturing and industrial design.

You can call me Daniel or Professor Houghton. My last name can seem a bit hard to pronounce. Just think of some sailor shouting, “Land Ho!” Ho-ton. Houghton.

Daniel Houghton, Makerspace Director and Industrial Design Instructor