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Cleaned-Up Meeting Minutes

Membership Meeting Minutes – November 2023

1. General Discussion - Open forum for members to share updates and ideas. - Recent upgrade to the Shapeoko CNC: new spindle and variable frequency drive installed for better speed control. - Call for feedback from members using different design workflows (e.g., Carbide Create, Fusion 360, etc.).
2. Equipment and Maintenance - Shapeoko CNC alignment and spoil board positioning updated. - Ongoing issues with the CO2 laser (Trogdor): air hose obstruction, random power issues, and worn components. - Plans to eventually replace the aging laser with a new model, not just a refurbished unit. - Member Bobby pledged $120 toward a new laser.
3. Member Projects - Members shared personal projects including international cosplay builds and learning 3D printing. - Discussion on CAM software licensing and use (e.g., VCarve Makerspace license and access protocols).
4. Raspberry Pi 5 Event - Scheduled for December 2, 2023. - Sponsored by Raspberry Pi Foundation, including demo units and promotional support. - Event will showcase projects highlighting the Pi 5’s capabilities (e.g., computer vision, home automation).
5. EPICS Student Project (UT Dallas) - Students are building a kiosk interface for use at the makerspace. - Web-based system includes options for deliveries, key fob registration, event info, etc. - Board members mentoring students weekly on-site at UTD. - Progress ongoing; final presentation planned for mid-December.
6. Holiday Potluck - A holiday potluck is under discussion; dependent on member initiative for planning and participation.
7. Access Control and Open Source Projects - Discussion about building an open source access control system using ESP32. - Goal is to create expandable, secure, and low-cost systems that could benefit other makerspaces. - Potential features include NFC/RFID, modular architecture, and GitHub documentation.

Meeting Summary

Summary of Membership Meeting – November 2023

• CNC upgrade: Shapeoko now has a variable frequency spindle; user feedback requested.
• CO2 laser continues to have technical issues; member pledged funds for future replacement.
• Raspberry Pi 5 showcase scheduled for Dec 2 with demos and community engagement.
• UT Dallas EPICS students developing a makerspace kiosk system; final presentation in December.
• Holiday potluck proposed, pending member interest.
• Proposal for open-source access control project using ESP32 discussed.