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Introduction to Open Source Hardware

• Instructor: Joshua Pierce, Thompson Chair at Western University.

• Director of the FAST Lab (Free Inappropriate Sustainable Technology).

• Main takeaway: Knowledge transfer can be accelerated using open source hardware.

• Teaching at top-ranked Electrical Engineering and Ivy School of Business.

Understanding Open Source Concept

• Definition of open source software:

  • Freely licensed software grants rights to copy, modify, and improve designs.

  • Use of viral licenses requires sharing modifications under the same license.

• Benefits of open source:

  • Rapid innovation and superior technology generation.

  • Value harvesting for all users.

• Examples of successful open-source projects:

  • Wikipedia: revolutionized knowledge sharing.

  • Linux: dominant in supercomputers and servers.

  • Android: prevalent in mobile devices.

Transition to Open Source Hardware

• Introduction of open source concepts into hardware, prominently in 3D printing.

• RepRap project:

  • Self-replicating 3D printer capable of printing its own parts.

  • Revolutionized accessibility to 3D printing technology.

Innovations in the FAST Lab

• Application of open-source methodologies:

  • Development of a solar-powered laptop for the developing world.

  • Initial attempt with conventional prototyping was costly.

  • Shifted focus to the RepRap project due to affordability and rapid improvements.

Evolution of 3D Printers in the Lab

• Initial designs (Version 1) took summer to build; issues with functionality.

• Version improvements led to:

  • Faster builds, enhanced print quality, and lower costs.

• Significant progress observed by version 3 with functional devices assisting research.

Case Study: Syringe Pump Development

• Need for an affordable syringe pump in lab settings.

• Innovation sparked by hiring high school student utilizing old resources.

  • Development of a parametric design using OpenSCAD software.

• Resulted in a cost-effective, customizable ambulance-like tool improving research capability.

Community Collaboration and Testing

• Crowdsourced ASTM tensile tests:

  • Engaging RepRap community to standardize and validate materials.

  • Open source designs fostered better results than proprietary counterparts.

Scaling Up: Teaching and Open Labs

• Educational courses on building RepRap printers, engaging 50-100 students at a time.

• Expansion of open-source tools in scientific research transitioned successfully over years.

• Significant increase in quality and accessibility of open-source science tools available.

Importance of Distributed Manufacturing

• Emphasis on shared resources leading to better innovation.

• Open source models provide access to advanced tools without prohibitive costs:

  • Essential for education and resource-limited settings in developing countries.

Economic Implications

• Open hardware model shows significant cost savings (up to 94% with Arduino and 3D printing).

• Example of syringe pump development, highlighting cost-effectiveness and value return.

Business Models in Open Source Hardware

• Several innovative business applications:

  • Collaborations with existing manufacturers to develop tools.

  • Corporate partnerships enhance technology transfer and product availability.

• Open source hardware allows for various models:

  1. Makers: DIY scientists fabricating their own devices.

  2. Component Suppliers: Providing kits for assembly to researchers.

Success Stories

• OpenPCR and Backyard Brains: Successful businesses centered on selling open-source devices.

• Partnerships with corporations enhance tool efficacy through shared knowledge and technology.

Certification and Growth in Open Hardware

• Open Source Hardware Association certification to ensure compliance and openness in development.

• Example of Tesla

  • Open-sourcing patents for strategic competition growth among component suppliers.

Building Collaborations and Trust

• Forming coalitions and testing facilities:

  • Facilitates shared innovation and resource accessibility in various fields.

  • Launched successful collaborative projects from university level partnerships.

Conclusion

• Open source hardware creates superior, adaptable scientific tools at lower costs.

• Significant societal impact when combined with compliance models and effective business strategies.

• A call to action for scientists and entrepreneurs to embrace these approaches for advancement.