The DI HUB’s facilities and equipment are intended to be used for design iteration, proof-of-concept, and low volume prototyping only. While the DI HUB encourages the development of entrepreneurial products, in accordance with Ohio state and Kent State University policy, the DI HUB is prohibited from competing with private enterprise. This includes the use of DI HUB facilities or equipment to produce materials for commercial fabrication or sale. Only rarely is it permissible for members to manufacture more than 10 copies of any given item at the DI HUB.

The DI HUB’s facilities and equipment may not be used to create material or engage in conduct that is in violation of another’s intellectual property rights. This includes reproducing material subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection. The DI HUB reserves the right to refuse any request if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the request would involve violation of copyright or other intellectual property laws.

Kent State University prohibits the possession, storage, or use of a deadly weapon in certain circumstances on university property, unless otherwise permitted by state law. In accordance with this policy, the DI HUB prohibits the use of its facilities and equipment for the fabrication of weapons, weapon components, simulated weapons, or weapon-like items. This includes the fabrication of any deadly weapon, whether for offensive or defensive purposes, including knives, swords, firearms, explosive devices, or other dangerous ordnances.

In many of the DI HUB’s facilities members may encounter hazardous materials or chemicals. If a material or chemical is considered hazardous, it will be identified with a standardized GHS safety label. Accompanying safety data sheets (SDS) are also available upon request. Any potentially hazardous materials or chemicals procured by members must be vetted by DI staff before they may be used within the DI HUB. Members are expected to provide SDS sheets for all non-approved materials so that they may be evaluated by DI staff.

DI HUB members are responsible for their own personal belongings. Personal items should not be left unattended. Any abandoned items will be discarded or placed in the REACTOR’s lost and found. The DI HUB is not responsible for any damaged, lost, or stolen items. No personal items, materials, or projects may be stored in the DI HUB’s facilities without prior approval.

In accordance with the DI HUB’s “Shared by all. Owned by all” philosophy, all DI HUB members are expected to share the responsibility of maintaining a safe, clean, and functional environment. Members are responsible for cleaning up after themselves, clearing any used work surfaces or equipment, and returning any used tools to their proper storage location. Members are responsible for keeping the floor around their workspace clean and free of clutter, liquid, dust, debris, tools, or other slip, trip, or fall hazards.

The DI HUB employs a dedicated staff of DI Crew members (student employees) who are available to provide guidance and assistance related to the use of DI HUB facilities, equipment, and tools. DI Crew members also provide hands-on training and project consultation services to any DI HUB member. DI Crew members may answer questions, provide advice, act as a sounding board, assist members with equipment, or recommend materials and processes, but they are prohibited from working on projects on behalf of members.

Access to the DI HUB’s equipment requires an active DI HUB membership in good standing. While most of the equipment within the DI HUB is available on a first-come, first-served basis, larger items can also be reserved online. Both appointments and walk-ins are welcome, however, the DI HUB cannot guarantee that a given piece of equipment will be available. As such, reservations are recommended. Please check the booking schedule on our website to ensure availability. The equipment within the DI HUB is divided into four distinct levels of access.

Access to the DI HUB’s facilities – including the REACTOR shops and labs – is a privilege that is contingent upon an individual’s membership with the Kent State University Design Innovation Hub. Membership is open to all community members and alumni 18 years old and above, as well as all current KSU students, staff, and faculty. Before gaining access to the REACTOR, DI HUB members must attend a required “DI HUB Orientation” session and pay all outstanding membership fees. Only DI HUB members in good standing will be permitted to enter the REACTOR.