NExT LAB
Like the rest of the campus, the NExT Lab is now closed to all services that require students and staff to visit campus. This includes online submission bureau fabrication services such as laser cutting, 3d printing and CNC, as these still require in person collection. The Guru is still available to answer making related questions via the regular phone number 9035 8663, and the Maker Spaces team are providing online technical support consultations via zoom. Feel free to make a booking through the relevant Maker Spaces web pages below.
The New Experimental Technology Lab (NExT Lab) is a technology-focused makerspace. We provide hands-on access to new disruptive technologies in design, along with support, training and education to integrate this tech into your design projects.
We believe that designers will play a key role in shaping our future - harnessing, hacking and inventing technology. To do this we all need to experience, experiment and explore. Whether you are an inventor set to create the next world changing product, a design student looking to understand technology that will shape your industry in the future or a tinkerer completing you dream DIY project, all are welcome.
We provide a range of training and education through our knowledge base, online tutorials and weekly events.
The NExT Lab is open every weekday from 10:00am - 4:00pm for public access and job collection (open from 10am Wednesday). Grab a coffee from the café next door and take a stroll through the space. Be sure to check the event calendar before coming because at times the space may be booked for dedicated use of MSD students and staff.
Upcoming events
Hands on access to new disruptive technology, experienced staff and organised technical training and education.
The New Experimental Technology Lab (NExT Lab) is a technology-focused makerspace. We provide hands-on access to new disruptive technologies in design, along with support, training and education to integrate this tech into your design projects.
We believe that designers will play a key role in shaping our future - harnessing, hacking and inventing technology. To do this we all need to experience, experiment and explore. Whether you are an inventor set to create the next world changing product, a design student looking to understand technology that will shape your industry in the future or a tinkerer completing you dream DIY project, all are welcome.
We provide a range of training and education through our knowledge base, online tutorials and weekly events.
The NExT Lab is open every weekday from 10:00am - 4:00pm for public access and job collection (open from 10am Wednesday). Grab a coffee from the café next door and take a stroll through the space. Be sure to check the event calendar before coming because at times the space may be booked for dedicated use of MSD students and staff.
New to NExT Lab? Attend a training seminar before you dive in.
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3D Printing
Learn how to submit a 3D Print to the NExT Lab 3D Printing farm.
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Virtual Reality (VR)
Book a VR experience session or book a time to explore your own creation in the VR space.
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LED Light Installation
Create your own lighting designs and display them in the NExT Lab Cube.
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3D Scanning
Book a session to scan an object with high resolution scanners.
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Augmented Reality (AR)
Try Microsoft's latest HoloLens technology by booking an experience session.
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Consultation
Looking for one-on-one advice from an expert? Book a consultation.
Commercial
We offer a range of commercial services including design, fabrication and access to a large array of equipment. Our friendly technical staff can work with you through the entire process.
The NExT Lab is open to everyone: inventors, tinkerers, designs and entrepreneurs - all are all welcome.
Whether you're an inventor set to create the next world changing product, a design student looking to understand technology that will shape your industry in the future or a tinkerer completing you dream DIY project, The NExT Lab is open to everyone.
Throughout the week the NExT Lab provides a variety of events to help you learn about New Experimental Technology in design, and how to integrate them into your projects. These events are popular and may require a booking. Please check the Events Calendar before coming. At all other times the space will be open for anyone to drop in. For a full list of sessions, check the events page.
To use the technology in the NExT Lab you are required to complete dedicated training for each technology. The training required is detailed in each techs page found in Services section. Once you have completed the basic introductions to equipment you can submit a 3d print, book to use the 3D scanner or virtual reality gear during designated times.
Events such as the Lectures, Seminars and technology Introduction and Expansion Sessions can be booked by anyone, without any prior training. Simply find the dedicated event for the tech you are interested in and book a spot. For a full list of sessions, check the events page.
Everything you need to know to get started
The NExT Lab provides a range of training options to help you learn about and integrate technologies into your projects. If you have never used a technology before and are keen to learn, we suggest you work through each type of training in the order below. If you follow the training in this order, you will gradually build your knowledge of each technology.
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Training Centre
Video tutorials and guides to help you understand and use all the tech in the NExT Lab and the MSD Makerlabs. Each process is broken down into bite-sized steps. Follow all the guides for a broad overview, or get help with a particular step. The catalogue will be continue to grow, so keep an eye out for new content.
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Introductory Session
Each week a range of introductory sessions are scheduled. Come along and learn about the fundamentals, such as how to setup and prepare VR files, software basics and how to submit a 3D print. No previous experience required.
For a full list of sessions, check the events page.
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Consultation
Book a consultation with the NExT Lab's experienced staff to get help with complex technical challenges specific to your project. Before making a booking, it is expected that you have completed the Introductory and Expansion sessions and attempted to resolve the problem independently.
For a full list of consultation sessions, check the events page.
What is the NExT Lab?
NExT Lab is the New Experimental Technology Lab at the Melbourne School of Design, and is a space for students to gain exposure to and learn about new technologies such as 3D Printing, 3D Scanning, Augmented/Mixed Reality and Virtual Reality.
When is the NExT Lab Open?
The NExT Lab is open 10am - 4pm Monday to Friday (we open at 12pm Wednesday).
Where is the NExT Lab Located?
The NExT Lab is located on the ground floor of the MSD Building, within the Andrew Lee King Fun Gallery.
Who can use the NExT Lab?
The NExT Lab is for all students that would like are interested in using the facilities available for their projects. There are staff available to assist with the induction and learning process.
There are so many cool tools, where do I start?
There is a lot of online content for all the tools and services we provide. We suggest reading up on the information we have provided for you and use it as a starting point. Further information can be found on the manufactures website or other forums which might help with more specific information about each tool.
Visit our Knowledge Base for more Learning Resources
What files do I need to submit to have my project printed?
You can submit a 3D Print online.
We require the following files in order to process your prints
.stl.makerbot.print
If you are missing any of these files your print will likely be delayed. We require one .stl file, and one .print file containing all jobs, and a .makerbot file for each job.
What steps should I take when checking over my job before submitting it to the Innovation Center?
Please follow our submission checklist to ensure your jobs follow our requirements.
Blum - Bringing the NExT Lab to life
Blum is proud to support the next generation of architecture, building and design students through the NExT Lab. Fundamental to Blum’s success is a focus on the latest technology and innovation, inspiring invention and fostering the future of design. Blum were therefore the perfect partner to help bring the NExT Lab to life.
Featured in the NExT Lab is Blum’s AVENTOS HL equipped with SERVO-DRIVE electrical opening support system. 3D printing equipment is hidden by an expansive surface of mirrors and access to the equipment is easy and convenient with the mirrored fronts of the “Magic Box” opening as if by themselves with just a touch and close with a press of a button.
If you would like to know more about the Blum range check out their website www.blum.com
Location:
We are located in the gallery space right behind Standing Room in the Glyn Davis MSD-Building. You can find us here. You have probably already seen the mirrored NExT LAB cube with the light show from the outside.
Contact us:
For more information about the NExT LAB please contact our staff at: