Collaboratory Digital Badges

UW Bothell Digital Badge Rewards

The University of Washington Bothell Collaboratory is a space where students, faculty, and staff have access to various tools and machines that they may not have access to elsewhere. These tools and machines range from 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines, to screwdrivers, batteries, sandpaper, and other common workshop tools.

To help keep track of and offer a more tangible collection of each user’s achievements, the Collaboratory is now offering several digital badges for various competencies and time commitments. Most badges are verified by staff prior to awarding the recipient a badge. Badges are awarded digitally via Badgr. Please talk to a staff member about receiving badges or email Collaboratory@uw.edu.

Co-curricular badges are given to students by an office or department, at UW Bothell, and are not part of student’s official academic transcript.

Skills developed while collecting badges include, teamwork, creative thinking skills, critical thinking skills, further Machine understanding and maintenance.

Collaboratory General Safety Badge

This badge shows the recipient has completed the general Collaboratory orientation and safety briefing either with a staff member or through a Collaboratory presentation. The recipient can recall the rules of the Collaboratory and knows the potential safety risks of being in the space and using the machines and tools available. This badge is a prerequisite to most other badges.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient can recall what they can and cannot do when in the Collaboratory and follow the rules and safety precautions from memory. They also know when to ask staff for assistance.
• The recipient must have filled out the user agreement
• Must have passed the Collaboratory Safety Quiz (80% correct or higher)

Volunteer Time Badges

The following volunteer badges are proof of certain levels of work and time commitments.

Collaboratory Volunteer I (1-2 hrs/week)

This badge shows that the recipient has clocked in a minimum of 2 hrs per week of volunteer work at the Collaboratory during a quarter (13 weeks). Volunteers are required to help out with tasks such as organization, general space upkeep, and inventory. Volunteers are required to attend a quarterly machine workshop, as well as be able to answer most questions relating to the space.

Earning Criteria:

• Completion of the Collaboratory Orientation is a prerequisite to earning this badge
• The recipient has completed 20-26 hrs of volunteering work within the quarter. This averages out to be 2 hours weekly for a 10-13 week quarter.
• Hours must be recorded on the Collaboratory quarterly schedule.
• This badges doesn’t expire but the topics covered should be reviewed every quarter

Collaboratory Volunteer II (3-4 hrs/week)

This badge shows that the recipient has clocked in 15 hrs of volunteer work at the Collaboratory. Volunteers at this level help out with tasks such as organization, general space upkeep, and inventory.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has received the Volunteer I badge
• The recipient has received a Proficiency II badge on at least one major machine (3D printing, laser cutting, CNC router).
• The recipient has put in 30 hrs of volunteering work. This can be 3 – 4 hrs weekly for one, ten week quarter or in longer shifts for fewer days.

Major Machine Proficiency Badges

The following badges serve to show progress on the recipient’s path to mastering the corresponding machine. There are four levels of badges for each machine, each one requiring more knowledge and experience with said machine to earn.

3D Printing Proficiency I

This badge shows the recipient has completed the basic 3D printing training and has printed an object on one of the Ender 3D printers. The recipient is capable of correctly setting up a file using the 3D printing software with some staff consultation.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has passed (80% correct or higher) either the 3D Printing Proficiency I Quiz provided by the Collaboratory or has been trained for any of the 3D printers by a staff member. Verified by Google forms or the staff member who trained the recipient.
• The recipient has correctly set up their own file in Cura from start to finish with assistance from a staff member.
• The recipient has also printed at least one of their own objects successfully using the 3D printer they were trained on with some assistance from Collaboratory staff.
• The recipient understands basic 3D printing concepts like supports, brim, infill percentages, infill types, and temperature of the print.

3D Printing Proficiency II

This badge shows that the recipient is familiar with the file setup process for the 3D Printers and is familiar with using the FlashForge and Cura software. They have completed multiple 3D print jobs with some/little staff help.

Earning Criteria:

• 3D Printing Proficiency I badge has been earned by the recipient.
• The recipient is trained by a staff member on the Ultimaker printer and file setup in Cura. Verified by Collaboratory staff member.
• The recipient has completed the 3D Printing Proficiency II Quiz with 80% correct or higher.
• The recipient can prepare 3D print files on Cura and FlashPrint with no staff assistance.
• The recipient has done one print on both the FlashForge and Ultimaker. The recipient also understands the difference between the two printer types.

3D Printing Proficiency III

This badge shows that the recipient has been given training by staff on the more advanced concepts and techniques of the 3D printers. They have shown that they can operate the machine with very little to no staff help. They are also well-versed in the file setup process. They also show some knowledge of what regular maintenance the machines need.

Earning Criteria:

• 3D Printing Proficiency II has been earned by the recipient.
• The recipient has received Advanced 3D Printing training from staff. Verified by a Collaboratory staff member.
• The recipient has printed at least three or more of their own projects of varying complexity with no staff assistance. Complex meaning objects that require assembly.
• The recipient has been trained on and understands the basics of daily 3D Printing maintenance. Verified by staff member.

3D Printing Proficiency IV

This badge shows that the recipient is well-versed in the file setup process and maintenance for the 3D printers. The recipient can operate the machines without staff help. They can also guide other students on how to prepare files and use 3D printers.

Earning Criteria:

• 3D Printing Proficiency III badge has been earned by the recipient.
• The recipient is proficient in 3D printing file setup and use. They can help other students with their print jobs.
• The recipient has printed on two different materials other than PLA.
• The recipient has performed daily maintenance on both types of regularly used 3D printing machines at least once.
• The recipient has been trained on weekly and monthly maintenance of 3D machines. Verified via staff member.

Laser Cutting Proficiency I

This badge shows that the recipient has completed the basic laser cutting training and has completed a job on the Collaboratory’s laser cutters with the help of the Collaboratory staff. The recipient is capable of preparing a job on the Adobe Illustrator software with staff guidance.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has passed (80% correct or higher) either the Laser Cutting Proficiency I Quiz provided by the Collaboratory or has been trained to use the laser cutters by a staff member. Verified by Google forms or the staff member who trained the recipient.
• The recipient has correctly set up their own file in Adobe Illustrator from start to finish with assistance from a staff member.
• The recipient has also completed at least one of their own projects successfully using the laser cutter they were trained on with assistance from Collaboratory staff.
• The recipient understands the basic workings of the laser cutter and the differences between the two laser cutters and cutting vs etching.

Laser Cutting Proficiency II

This badge shows that the recipient is familiar with the file setup process for the laser cutters and is familiar with using Adobe Illustrator. They have completed multiple laser cutter jobs of varying complexity with some staff help, and understand some advanced laser cutter concepts.

Earning Criteria:

• Recipient has earned the Laser Cutting Proficiency I badge.
• Recipient shows they can prepare a file in Adobe Illustrator with little to no staff assistance.
• Recipient has completed at least 3 laser cutting jobs of varying complexity (not only simple etches or cuts).
• Recipient has done both cutting and engraving projects.
• Recipient shows some understanding of more advanced concepts of the laser cutter such as power and speed settings, how to level the machines, as well as the types of materials they are able to cut.

Laser Cutting Proficiency III

This badge shows that the recipient has been given training by staff on the more advanced concepts and techniques of the laser cutters. They have shown that they can operate the machine with very little to no staff help. They are also well-versed in the file setup process. They also show some knowledge of what regular maintenance the machines need.

Earning Criteria:

• Recipient has earned the Laser Cutting Proficiency II badge.
• Recipient has received advanced laser cutting training by staff. Verified by staff member.
• Recipient has done projects on at least two types of materials.
• Recipient has completed multiple complex projects with the laser cutter. Complex meaning more than simply finding an image or design for etching/cutting. Examples include piecing together a 3D model, creating keychains, large signs, etc.
• Recipient shows knowledge of how to operate the laser cutter in the UCP driver program.
• Recipient knows how to operate the air compressor and air collector on both laser cutters.
• Recipient has done some of the daily maintenance tasks for the laser cutters at least once.

Laser Cutting Proficiency IV

This badge shows that the recipient has mastered the file setup process for the laser cutters and is able to perform maintenance on the machines if asked to. The recipient is able to operate the machines without help from staff. They can answer most questions asked about the laser cutters, and are able to teach others how to set up files and operate the machine.

Earning Criteria:

• Recipient has earned the Laser Cutting Proficiency III badge.
• Recipient can answer most questions about the laser cutter such as bed sizes, materials that can be cut through, power and speed settings, etc.
• Recipient has taught at least one other person how to correctly setup files for the laser cutter and the basics of using the laser cutter.
• Recipient can successfully complete a job on the laser cutters with no staff help.
• Recipient has been shown by a staff member how to perform advanced maintenance such as lens cleaning, and air filter replacement.
• The recipient is able to verify Collaboratory users for Laser Cutting Proficiency I – III badges.

CNC Router Proficiency I

This badge shows that the recipient has completed the basic CNC Router training and has completed a job on the Collaboratory’s CNC Routers with the help of the Collaboratory staff. The recipient is capable of preparing a job on the Easel software with some staff guidance.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has passed (80% correct or higher) either the CNC Router Proficiency I Quiz provided by the Collaboratory and has been trained on the CNC Router by a staff member. Verified by Google forms or the staff member who trained the recipient.
• The recipient has successfully run their first CNC job using Easel with some staff help.
• The recipient shows understanding of basic CNC concepts. This includes concepts such as spindle speeds and linear feed rates.

CNC Router Proficiency II

This badge shows that the recipient is well versed with general CNC Router concepts and has mastered the Easel software. They are able to prepare files in Easel with very little to no help from staff. They have the skills to provide basic assistance to others on Easel and basic CNC concepts.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has received the CNC Router Proficiency I badge.
• The recipient has shown mastery of the Easel software. They are able to prepare files using any of the tools in the Easel software and can run basic CNC jobs without any help from staff. They are able to assist others with Easel and basic CNC questions.
• The recipient is well versed in basic CNC concepts and shows some understanding of more advanced CNC concepts such as speeds and feeds, surface speed, basic endmill shapes, and basic CNC toolpaths such as facing and contour operations.
• The recipient shows that they are able to make informed decisions for the choice of endmills for a CNC operation.

CNC Router Proficiency III

This badge shows that the recipient has received and passed the Advanced CNC Router training with a staff member. The recipient has some understanding of advanced CNC Router concepts and has prepared a CNC job in Autodesk Fusion 360 with help from a staff member. The recipient is also familiar with the Carvey CNC Routers and can do basic maintenance on the machines.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has received the CNC Router Proficiency II and the 3D Modeling Proficiency Expert badges and has passed (80% correct or higher) the CNC Proficiency III Quiz.
• The recipient has received and passed the one-on-one Advanced CNC training from a staff member and has completed their first Fusion 360 CNC job. Verified by the staff member who trained the recipient.
• The recipient has an understanding of advanced CNC concepts such as high speed manufacturing, climb vs.conventional machining, chip load, and more advanced Adaptive CNC toolpaths.
• The recipient has completed their first job on the Collaboratory’s CNC routers with a more advanced material such as brass or aluminum.
• The recipient has mastered all the concepts required for Easel and can train others on using Easel to run CNC jobs.
• The recipient is familiar with the Collaboratory’s CNC Routers and can perform basic maintenance tasks such as cleaning the spindle bore and replacing the wasteboard.

CNC Router Proficiency IV

This badge shows that the recipient is well versed in advanced CNC Router concepts and is proficient in Fusion 360 and can assist other students in basic Fusion 360 concepts. They have a thorough understanding of the Carvey CNC routers and are able to carry out advanced maintenance tasks.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has received the CNC Router Proficiency III badge.
• The recipient is well versed in Fusion 360 CNC and can assist others with Fusion 360 CNC questions.
• The recipient is well versed in advanced CNC concepts with an understanding of end mill metallurgy, advanced end mill geometry, and specialized CNC toolpaths such as morph, spiral, and radial toolpaths.
• The recipient is well versed with the Collaboratory’s CNC routers and can perform in depth maintenance tasks such as adjusting belts and bearings.
• The recipient is able to verify Collaboratory users for CNC Proficiency I – III badges.

Other Equipment/Software Badges

3D Modeling Novice

This badge shows that the recipient is proficient in 3D modeling in the Autodesk Fusion 360 software. They have designed their first part with staff help.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has designed their first part in Autodesk Fusion 360 with the help of staff.
• The recipient understands basic concepts of 3D modeling for manufacturing with the Collaboratory equipment.
  

3D Modeling Expert

This badge shows that the recipient has mastered Autodesk Tinkercad and has received training on Autodesk Fusion 360. They have designed their first part with Autodesk Fusion 360 and are able to train others on 3D modeling.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has earned the 3D Modeling Novice badge.
• The recipient has designed their first multi part assembly in Autodesk Fusion 360 with staff help.
• The recipient is well versed in single part design in Autodesk Fusion 360 and can train others.
• The recipient is well versed in 3D modeling for manufacturing with the Collaboratory equipment and can design complex multi part and/or multi process projects.

VR/AR Novice

This badge shows the recipient has been trained on how to setup and use at least one of the VR sets available at the Collaboratory. They understand the basic concepts of how the headset and controllers track and know how to find and start up a VR/AR application. They also understand how to take care and clean the equipment while it’s not in use.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has been trained by a staff member knowledgeable in VR/AR on the basics of headsets, setup, and use of at least one of our equipment sets.
• The recipient knows how to care for the equipment and keep them clean.
• The recipient has a general idea of where to look for VR/AR experiences and programs.
• The recipient can setup a full VR/AR kit on their own with minimal assistance from staff.

VR/AR Expert

This badge shows the recipient is knowledgeable about all the VR/AR equipment and understands the major differences between each headset & controllers. They have setup and used each of the pieces of equipment available at least once. They know where to find major VR/AR experiences and programs.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has earned the VR/AR Novice badge.
• The recipient knows the in and outs of all the VR/AR equipment and can recall the strengths and limitations of each one.
• The recipient has tried out many VR/AR programs and experiences ranging from games, to small student projects, to educational programs.
• The recipient has used all the VR/AR equipment available at least once and can help others who are interested start using the equipment.

Button Maker Proficiency

This badge shows the recipient has completed the button maker training and can construct buttons without staff assistance.

Earning Criteria:

• Has been trained on the button maker by a staff member. Verified by the staff member who trained the recipient.
• Can correctly size and Position button image sheets for use with the button maker.
• The recipient has constructed a button on the Collaboratory’s button maker without any assistance from staff.

Vinyl Cutter Proficiency I

This badge shows the recipient has completed vinyl cutter training and has made their first vinyl cutting project.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has passed (80% correct or higher) either the Vinyl Cutter Proficiency I Quiz provided by the Collaboratory and has been trained on the Vinyl Cutter by a staff member. Verified by Google forms or the staff member who trained the recipient.
• The recipient has completed vinyl cutter training with a Collaboratory staff member. Verified by the staff member that trained them.
• The recipient has made their first vinyl cutting project with help from staff member.

Vinyl Cutter Proficiency II

This badge shows the recipient has a thorough understanding of the vinyl cutter and has made their first multi-color vinyl cutter project.

Earning Criteria:

• The recipient has a thorough understanding of the vinyl cutter and is able to train other users on using the vinyl cutter.
• The recipient is familiar with the Cut Studio software and can edit and prepare images for the vinyl cutter.
• The recipient has made their first advanced multi-colored vinyl cutter project.

Badge Types