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Metal Lathe Needed for SBIR Presentation Prototype

Hey everyone,

First off, let me say how excited I am to be part of this amazing hacker space! I just moved to town and joined up because, well, this is my kind of community—creative, hands-on, and full of problem-solvers.

A little about me: I’m an experienced maker who specializes in creating gyroscopic exercise machines. These aren’t your typical fitness gadgets—they’re designed to produce dynamic 3D resistance forces, engaging both body and brain. Think of a supercharged Powerball that’s as much a mental workout as it is physical. I’ve been developing this technology for a while, and I’m here in town to present my invention at an SBIR convention to DARPA.

Now, here’s where I could use some help. I’ve got a few prototypes that will get me through the presentation, but my latest (and greatest) version isn’t fully operational yet. It’s so close, but I need access to a metal lathe to finish two critical parts:
1. Turning a plastic wheel so the outer diameter is perfectly true to the axis.
2. Boring a 1/2” aluminum tube to fit a 9mm tap.

I’m completely comfortable doing these operations myself—I’ve used lathes plenty in the past—but I hit a snag. The next lathe class available before my presentation is just before my next paycheck, and, well… I’m running on fumes financially after paying for my membership and getting here.

So, I’m reaching out to see if anyone might be able to help me:
• Could I arrange to take the class with a flexible payment plan?
• Or could someone supervise me so I can use the lathe safely and get these parts finished?

The presentation is incredibly important, and I’d hate to miss the opportunity to show what my invention can do because of something as simple as this.

If anyone’s willing to lend a hand or has advice on how I can get this done in time, I’d be forever grateful. I’d also love to pay it forward by sharing my skills as an artist and maker.

Thanks so much for reading, and I’m really looking forward to getting to know everyone here!

Cheers,
Chris

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2

Ya made me look up SBIR… Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR )

Unfortunately, I can’t help, but good luck!

4

you can reach out to classes@asmbly.org for possibly requesting delayed payment.

Also, I can probably help if you drop off the parts with a print. (what kind of timeline you looking at)

5

You could also potentially request a checkout class. @mgmoore might know more.

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Thanks for your ideas and support. Someone has offered to do the work for me solving the problem.

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