Build on Demand? Manila Arduino Unveils PH's First Low-cost "Floating" Innovation Lab
*MANILA, PHILIPPINES / ACCESSWIRE / May 6, 2024 /* In a move to democratize innovation, Manila Arduino Fabrication Laboratory (Manila Arduino), a Manila-based tech startup, has introduced its country's first low-cost "floating" innovation lab, capable of turning innovative ideas into actual products.
This makerspace aims to bring fabrication capabilities directly to research groups and students across the archipelago.
"The "floating" aspect of our fabrication lab refers to our ability to serve any research groups in the Philippines and extend futuristic technologies to them," said Carl John Dal Calub, Head of Operations at Manila Arduino. "Most institutions lack the competencies to help research groups build their dream projects. They often don't know where to turn to, and some end up falling victim to scams. We at Manila Arduino are trying to bridge that gap between innovative ideas and a cost-effective fabrication space," he added.
Despite its growing economy, the Philippines faces hurdles in the technological landscape. Compared to its Southeast Asian neighbors, the country lags in research and development spending, with limited resources dedicated to scientific infrastructures. This often results in a shortage of innovation, with brilliant ideas failing to materialize due to a lack of proper tools and access to the latest technologies.
"When we first started out, every research prototype was about filling and sorting machines, which were a thing of the past," said Calub. "Now, after just a few months in the fabrication industry, we have successfully assisted hundreds of startups and researchers in creating technologically advanced and practical products," he added.
Manila Arduino specializes in creating prototypes for complex AI systems and mobile app-powered machines. They boast a team capable of not only building prototypes but also providing potential design solutions and programming various microcomputers like Arduino and Raspberry Pi.
Fabrication labs are not usually found in schools. Hence, makers are inclined to build easy-to-replicate products instead of innovating.
"Imagine a student with a groundbreaking concept for an agricultural monitoring system. His or her school might not have the 3D printers or the knowledge to build the necessary prototypes," Calub emphasized. "Our fabrication lab solves this problem. We offer our facilities to them, equipped with the necessary tools and staffed by our specialists. We then guide the students through the fabrication process, turning their ideas into tangible products."
*The Road Ahead*
The potential impact of Manila Arduino's initiative extends beyond individual projects. By guiding a generation of young innovators, they are laying the groundwork for a more technologically advanced Philippines.
"We see a future where Filipino research and development thrives, not just adjusting for, but leading the way in Southeast Asia's tech revolution," Calub said. "The success of the "floating" fabrication lab will be crucial in determining the realization of this vision," he added.
For media inquiries, please contact
Company Name: Manila Arduino Fabrication Lab
Contact Person: Carl John Dal Lee
Mail: info.arduino@manilafablab.com
City and Country: Manila, Philippines
Website: www.manilafablab.com
*SOURCE:* Arduinotech
View the original press release on accesswire.com