Discover, experiment and shape the future: At the new InnoLab of the Technical University of Leoben, upper secondary school classes (AHS/BHS) experience modern technologies first-hand through practical, hands-on learning. In our STEM workshops, students work independently with current technologies, ranging from 3D printing, polymer production and recycling to sustainable materials, robotics, electronics and sensor technology. They develop their own ideas, build prototypes and test their solutions with professional guidance.
Teachers benefit from a well-prepared programme with safe working environments, age-appropriate learning content and professional support from our specialist staff. Students and young adults are also warmly invited to use the InnoLab for projects, final theses and prototyping.
Locations
Academy Technical University of Leoben
Peter Tunner-Straße 15
8700 Leoben
Haus der Digitalisierung
Roseggerstraße 22
8700 Leoben
Group Size
Each module accommodates 7–9 participants. Up to three modules can be offered simultaneously.
For larger classes, we develop an extended programme in cooperation with the Department Polymer Engineering and Science at the Technical University of Leoben.
Contact
Markus Ast
Head of the Innovation Laboratory
Email: inno-lab(at)unileoben.ac.at
“While teachers can rely on professional support, pupils experience real “aha moments” and discover science through hands-on learning.”
Module 1: Polymer Manufacturing
What’s it all about?
- An insight into polymers, their properties and sustainable alternatives
- From monomer to polymer (e.g. nylon rope trick)
What are we doing?
- Producing nylon threads and observing polymerisation
- Creating bio-based/biodegradable plastics (e.g. PLA, flexible films)
- Manufacturing components from bio-based resins, enhancing surfaces via vacuum casting
For schools
- Focus area can be selected in advance (everyday life, sustainability)
- Freehand sketches and ideas for shapes are welcome
- We provide chemicals and protective clothing
Module 2: Additive and Subtractive Manufacturing
What’s it all about?
- From idea to component: CAD to CAM
- Understanding the processes: 3D printing (FDM/resin) and CNC (milling/turning)
What do we do?
- Create 2D sketches and 3D models
- Prepare slicer and CAM data
- Manufacturing components and comparing processes
For schools
- Own files accepted (PDF/DXF, STL/STEP)
- Setting up processes (slicer/CAM) together
Module 3: Recycling of Thermoplastics
What’s it all about?
- Getting used plastics back into the cycle
- Material identification, melting behaviour, the limits of recycling
What do we do?
- Identifying, sorting and shredding plastics
- Processing bottle caps and turning them into regranulate or finished products
- Producing a tangible end product from recycled material
For schools
- Bottle caps can be cleaned in advance and pre-sorted by code (1–7)
- Further processing in the laboratory
Module 4: Electronics and Sensor Technology
What’s it all about?
- How sensors detect their surroundings and how data can be put to use
- Basics: voltage dividers, filters, amplifiers; energy harvesting
What are we doing?
- Building printed sensors (conductive ink/graphite)
- Measuring quantities such as pressure, bending and touch
- Transmitting measured values to a dashboard via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi
For schools
- Choice of focus area (e.g. indoor climate, movement)
- We provide measuring equipment, sensors and wireless modules
- Ideally, each group should bring a laptop or tablet
Module 5: Robotics
What’s it all about?
- Motion, perception and control of machines
- The interplay of mechanics, electronics and programming
What are we doing?
- Building a 3D-printed robot arm or a small vehicle
- Integrating sensors (distance/line/tilt) and controlling a microcontroller
- Wireless data transmission; simple control loop; functional demonstrator
For schools
- Agree on tasks in advance (e.g. lifting a cube, driving a ‘figure of eight’)
- We provide the materials and components
- Clarify technical requirements and safety issues in advance