TMC Labs (Think, Make, Create)
Mobile Maker Space 2015-2016
Introduction
TMC Labs are designed to be a low-cost entry point for Nebraska youth to tinker, explore and problem-solve while helping to promote long-term sustainability for rural afterschool and summer programs.
Initial Ideation Sketches
The main design challenges included keeping items secure while in transit, long term durability, low cost, easy to use, and safety.
Final design sketch below
For V.1 of TMC Labs I needed to keep it simple to keep build times short. Everything was built using power tools and hand tools so it took me an estimated 32 hours to complete one interior with occasional help from my dad.
This design used very low cost materials. I used a sheet metal shelving units found at hardware stores, medium grade plywood, and basic hardware to mount wooden pieces to the shelves.
Mounting System
Another key factor to this design was durability. The main challenge was securing the shelving unit to the trailer wall. I used a cleat system which utilized t-nuts, washers, and hex bolts. The cleats were mounted to the trailer wall using construction adhesive. (See below)
Variations on the design
After doing a few TMC's I decided to add pull out shelves and a dollie lock. The shelves are held in place during transit using a cleat shaped similarly to a hockey stick (see below). The dollie lock is mounted securely to the trailer wall and tightly fits around the dollie handle to prevent it from tipping.
