This Monday, we had the pleasure of welcoming esteemed visitors from Metro High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
As the school offers courses focused on robotics, 3D Printing, and Advanced Manufacturing, both students and teachers were particularly interested in some of the cutting-edge facilities available at Palacký University. The Welcome Office organized and facilitated a tour designed for their specific interests.
Department of Geoinformatics
After an introduction by the Welcome Office and a short tour of selected areas of the University Campus, the group attended a presentation at the Department of Geoinformatics, where they were welcomed by prof. Voženílek, Dr. Koníček and Dr. Popelka. The visitors learned about the department’s academic programs and ongoing research, including innovative work in eye-tracking, laser drone mapping, and the use of 3D printing in various applications. These include geography-related projects, the creation of tactile maps for visually impaired individuals, professional research, and academic support, enabling students to realize their own projects and theses.
Science and Technology Park
After lunch at the Faculty of Science, the group visited the Envelopa Hub, a key component of the Science and Technology Park. Marie Kousalová guided the guests through the modern facilities. They learned about the individuals and companies based at the Hub and were introduced to several research projects conducted by scientists and researchers from Palacký University. In addition, talented university students are encouraged to use the Envelopa Hub’s facilities for their own work and research, supported by the university through both academic guidance and financial resources and several initiatives (such as UP Business Camp, Hackaton, or Bussines Mind) to help students develop in their fields.
UPrint3D
The final stop of the tour was UPrint3D, the university’s 3D printing lab located at the Holice Campus. One of the lab’s key staff members, Ondřej Šebesta, led the group through the lab, explaining its development since its establishment. The visitors were shown various 3D printers currently in operation, observed live demonstrations, and had the opportunity to see a range of printed products created in the lab. UPrint3D also serves as a valuable resource for students from various academic programs. For example, one project involved the development and printing of aids for individuals with OCD, an initiative that originated from a student thesis. Other similar projects further highlight the lab's role in supporting student innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Lastly, we would like to thank the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library for helping connect us during trip planning as well as all the professors and staff workers who gave their time to show the visitors their working spaces and laboratories.