October 2021

Want to build a prototype of your invention?  Has Machyne got the place for you!

Alex Bandar, PhD (executive director, Machyne) believes that everyone has the potential to be an educated and empowered innovator.  If you can imagine something, you can learn how to, and actually, sketch it digitally in 2 or 3 dimensions for free.  YouTube shows you how.  Give that sketch to computer-run machines and they will create a prototype of the thing for you. If you need money for materials or for access to tools, run a crowdfunding campaign.  Show your prototype to a customer, investor, company, or retailer and ask if they will use your idea.  If they say yes, a global network of manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can spread your idea to markets worldwide.

Alex embodied his belief by creating a clubhouse for makers, first in Columbus, OH (Idea Foundry) and now in Indianapolis.  Machyne makes it easy to move an idea from your head into your hand.  Tools, classes, memberships, and a supportive community of people (artists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and innovators) who like to find and solve problems are available here.  Memberships start at $50/month/person.

Machyne offers classes on how to use its tools.  For example, there will be a class on how to use the Formech 508FS vacuum former on October 27 ($20) and a class on how to use 3D printing machines on November 3 ($40).

A wide variety of tools are available for use after you complete and pass a training session for each tool you want to use.  The workshop area has tools for metal fabrication, welding, CNC routing, CNC plasma cutting, CNC milling/turning, CNC waterjet cutting, vacuum forming, laser cutting, and woodworking.  The design area has tools for 3D printing, electronics, programming, and vinyl cutting and has design software.  The media area has tools for virtual reality, augmented reality, photography, videography, and podcasting.  An hourly fee for tool use ranges from $5 to $40 per hour.  Workbenches where you can store your own tools are also available.

Thank you, Mr. Bandar, for an exhilarating tour of Machyne!