Each studio or lab within the Interactive Media Lab has space-specific policies, procedures, and independent use training requirements.
Users are responsible for reviewing and complying with the policies outlined under the Studios and Labs section of this handbook prior to use. Failure to follow studio or lab specific policies may result in suspension of access to that space or the IML as a whole.
Maintenance, Reporting + Cleanup
Any equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or incidents must be reported immediately to the IML Equipment Checkout. Users are responsible for leaving the space clean, orderly and returned to its default configuration after use. Failure to report issues or properly reset the space may impact future access or result in additional fees during rental bookings.
Tier 1
Use of Tier 1 Studios + Labs
Tier 1 studios and labs provide accessible, low-barrier entry to IML resources.
Designated Open Studio spaces include:
Arcade
Innovation Studio
Recording Studio
Research + Design Lab
Some Tier 1 spaces may require a brief consultation with IML staff prior to first use to review equipment basics or room set up and use.
Arcade
The Arcade is a space designed for individual and group gaming experiences, supporting both academic and recreational use. The space includes console gaming, PC gaming, virtual reality, simulation-based play, and solo play environments intended to encourage collaboration, experimentation, and shared experiences.
Posted signage within the Arcade outlines steps for using the space and specific equipment. Some equipment requires VR headset to use. VR headsets can be checked out at IML Equipment Checkout.
Users should plan for additional setup and charging time if applicable when using:
VR headsets
X-Arcade machine
Roto Haptic Chair
YAW Motion Simulator Chair
Charging time, calibration and equipment readiness may affect usable session time. Setup and charging time must be included within the allotted booking or access window and do not extend reserved time automatically.
Safety and Conduct
No food or drink is allowed in solo playrooms, except sealed water bottles. Roughhousing, misuse of equipment, or unsafe behavior is strictly prohibited. Users must respect all equipment, furnishings, and shared use expectations. Game purchases, downloads, or system modifications are not permitted without prior authorization. Noise levels should remain reasonable and considerate of others using the IML.
All use of the Arcade is subject to maximum occupancy and capacity limited as determined by fire code and life-safety requirements. Arcade’s maximum capacity is 13. Users are responsible for ensuring that all participants, crew, and observers remain within approved capacity limits. Exceeding capacity may result in immediate suspension of use.
YAW Motion Simulator Safety
Users must fasten the seatbelt before operation the simulator. Only active users may be present in the solo playroom during simulator use. Users must remain seated and secured while the simulator is in motion.
Digital Capture Studio
Digital Capture Studio is a space designed for photography, artwork documentation, 3D scanning, and photogrammetry workflows.
A booking reservation is required before use.
Use of the Digital Capture Studio includes:
Photography shoots
Artwork documentation
Use of the seamless backdrop and standard studio lighting
3D Scanning
A brief consultation with IML Staff may be required prior to first use of the Digital Capture Studio. 3D scanners are available through IML Equipment Checkout.
The consultation is used to:
Review studio setup and workflow expectations
Assess seamless backdrop needs, including potential backdrop change-outs.
Confirm that the requested use aligns with studio capabilities
Determine user proficiency with the 3D scanning or photogrammetry equipment
Schedule time with IML staff for instruction or training if needed.
Users must follow all posted signage and staff instructions. Equipment must be handled with care and used only as intended. Users are responsible for managing their own files and storage media.
All use of the Digital Capture Studio is subject to maximum occupancy and capacity limited as determined by fire code and life-safety requirements. Digital Capture Studio’s maximum capacity is 29. Users are responsible for ensuring that all participants, crew, and observers remain within approved capacity limits. Exceeding capacity may result in immediate suspension of use.
At the conclusion of use, users must:
Format SD cards used during the session
Plug camera batteries into chargers
Return all equipment to its designated location
Reset the studio to its default configuration including:
Lighting placement
Backdrop position
Removal of personal materials or props
Experience + Edit Center – General Use
The Experience + Edit Center is a space designed for 2D and 3D film and video screenings, post-production workflows, and shared VR experiences.
A booking reservation is required before use.
General use of the Experience + Edit Center includes:
2D film and video screenings
Video editing and post-production including sound mixing and color correction
No consultation is required for these standard use cases.
Posted signage within the Experience + Edit Center outlines steps for using the space and specific equipment.
At the conclusion of use, users must:
Log out of all systems
Close all software applications
Power down equipment as directed
Removing personal materials and data
Return the room to its default configuration
All use of the Experience + Edit Center is subject to maximum occupancy and capacity limited as determined by fire code and life-safety requirements. Experience + Edit Center’s maximum capacity is 20. Users are responsible for ensuring that all participants, crew, and observers remain within approved capacity limits. Exceeding capacity may result in immediate suspension of use.
Janet Rosel Smith + Mark K. Smith Innovation Studio
Innovation Studio is a space designed for classes, brainstorming sessions, presentations, critiques, gatherings, and events. The studio features abundant natural light from surrounding windows and includes a 15-foot LED display for showcasing images, artwork and presentations.
Posted signage within Innovation Studio outlines steps for using the space and specific equipment.
All use of the Innovation Studio is subject to maximum occupancy and capacity limited as determined by fire code and life-safety requirements. Innovation Studio’s maximum capacity is 49. Users are responsible for ensuring that all participants, crew, and observers remain within approved capacity limits. Exceeding capacity may result in immediate suspension of use.
BrightSign Display Submissions (Innovation Studio)
Innovation Studio includes a BrightSign digital display system for scheduled content. CIA students are able to submit content to rotate the 15ft LED screen.
Submission Guidelines:
Accepted formats: .mp4, .jpg, .png
Recommended resolution:
Half screen 1920x1080
Full screen: Two separate files at 1920x1080
Content must be appropriate for public viewing.
Approved content will be scheduled based on availability and relevance. IML staff reserves the right to reject submissions or remove or reschedule content as needed without notice.
For questions or to submit content, contact the IML Associate Director of Technology.
Rapid Prototyping Lab – Bambu 3D Printing
The Rapid Prototyping Lab is a fabrication-focused space designed for hands-on experimentation, model building, and iterative design. The lab supports projects involving 3D printing, laser cutting, soldering, and CNC milling.
A consultation may be recommended prior to first Bambu Lab 3D Printer use to determine user proficiency with the equipment.
The Rapid Prototyping Lab maintains a variety of approved 3D printing materials and colors for use with the Bambu Lab printers. Students may use IML-provided materials or bring their own 3D printing materials, subject to the following condition that all personal materials must be reviewed and approved by IML staff prior to use. IML staff reserve the right to deny use of materials that are incompatible, unsafe, or unsuitable for the equipment.
Users are responsible for ensuring their files are prepared appropriately for 3D printing and print settings to align with approved materials and equipment capabilities. If there is uncertainty regarding material compatibility or file readiness, students should consult with IML staff prior to printing.
Once a print file has been properly prepared, users must complete a 3D print submission slip prior to printing.
The slip must include:
First and Last Name
CIA Email Address
Duration of the print
Total grams of material used (includes supports)
Completed slips can be placed in the label holder on the specific Bambu Lab printer being used.
The completed 3D printed item and corresponding submission slip will be transferred to the IML Equipment Checkout. Items will be held for pickup following payment processing. Users are responsible for retrieving completed prints within a reasonable timeframe. Unclaimed items may be removed or discarded after two weeks.
Recording Studio
The Recording Studio is a sound-proof and acoustically treated studio designed for podcast production and voice over recording.
Posted signage within Recording Studio outlines steps for using the space and specific equipment.
At the conclusion of use, users must:
Save and export all recordings
Log out of systems and close all applications
Power down equipment as directed by signage
Return the studio to its default configuration
Remove all personal materials
All use of the Recording Studio is subject to maximum occupancy and capacity limited as determined by fire code and life-safety requirements. Recording Studio’s maximum capacity is 4. Users are responsible for ensuring that all participants, crew, and observers remain within approved capacity limits. Exceeding capacity may result in immediate suspension of use.
Research + Design Lab
Research + Design Lab is designed for testing, research, and experimentation with digital products including mobile devices, consoles, controllers, and VR headsets.
Posted signage within the Research + Design Lab outlines steps for using the space and specific equipment.
At the conclusion of use, users must:
Save and export all recordings
Log out of systems and close all applications
Power down equipment as directed by signage
Return the studio to its default configuration
Remove all personal materials
All use of the Research + Design Lab is subject to maximum occupancy and capacity limited as determined by fire code and life-safety requirements. Research + Design Lab’s maximum capacity is 36. Users are responsible for ensuring that all participants, crew, and observers remain within approved capacity limits. Exceeding capacity may result in immediate suspension of use.
Copier Use Policy
Only approved paper types and sizes may be used.
Users may not attempt to clear paper jams or service the copier. Inform the IML Equipment Checkout to assist.
Large print jobs (over 50 pages) must be scheduled in advance to avoid disrupting other users. Large print jobs may be directed to the Digital Output Center.
Users are responsible for retrieving all printed materials and maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive documents.
The copier may not be used for mass printing of event flyers or promotional materials.
Color printing should be limited to essential needs.
Copier malfunctions or low supplies (paper, toner) must be reported to the IML Equipment Checkout.
Tier 2
Use of Tier 2 Studios + Labs
Tier 2 studios and labs have more advanced workflows and higher risk or higher-complexity activities compared to Tier 1 spaces. Use of these spaces requires additional preparation, consultation, or training to ensure safe, effective, and responsible operation.
Tier 2 studios and labs:
Require more extensive consultation or formal training (for independent use), typically ranging from 30 minutes to one hour, prior to use.
May require IML staff assistance for setup
Leonard Krieger Fund of the Cleveland Foundation Interactive Media Gallery
The Interactive Media Gallery is a space designed for exhibitions, installations, critiques, screenings, and community-engaged media projects. It supports a wide range of use cases, including temporary and long-term installations, digital displays, and shared VR experiences.
Due to the unique, variable, and installation-based nature of Gallery use, this space requires advance planning, consultation and coordination with IML staff.
The consultation is used to:
Review the proposed project, exhibition or installation
Assess technical, spatial and safety requirements
Identify equipment, staffing or facility support needs
Determine feasibility within the Gallery’s capabilities and schedule
Additional IML staff support may be required depending on the scope, duration, and complexity of the project.
Any installations involving the following must be reviewed and approved during consultation:
Wet media
Projection
Sound
Interactive or powered elements
Artists and users are responsible for:
Coordinating setup and takedown with IML staff
Restoring the Gallery to its original condition following use
Personal equipment or additional technology may require prior approval before installation. Food and drink arrangements must be communicated in advance and approved as part of the project plan.
All use of the Interactive Media Gallery is subject to maximum occupancy and capacity limited as determined by fire code and life-safety requirements. Interactive Media Gallery’s maximum capacity is 39. Users are responsible for ensuring that all participants, crew, and observers remain within approved capacity limits. Exceeding capacity may result in immediate suspension of use.
Rapid Prototyping Lab – Laser Cutter + CNC Mill
The Rapid Prototyping Lab is a fabrication-focused space designed for hands-on experimentation, model building, and iterative design. The lab supports projects involving 3D printing, laser cutting, soldering, and CNC milling.
Laser Cutter and CNC mill use involve higher complexity and safety risks therefore require an hour-long training prior to use. The Rapid Prototyping Lab can be reserved for individual machine use. A booking reservation is required before use.
Only pre-approved materials may be used in the laser cutter and CNC mill. If a user is unsure whether a material is approved, they must contact the IML Operations Manager.
Proper PPE (such as safety glasses) is required for CNC mill use. Optional PPE for laser cutter use is available in IML Equipment Checkout. Users must never bypass safety interlocks or operate equipment with covers removed. Users must remain with the CNC mill and laser cutter for the full duration of use in the case of an error.
Users are responsible for:
Cleaning work areas after use
Returning tools to their proper locations
Tier 3 (Longer Certification/Training Needed or Additional Assistance Needed)
Use of Tier 3 Studios + Labs
Tier 3 studios and lab are reserved for high-complexity, workflows within the IML. These spaces require extended training, certification or ongoing IML staff assistance to ensure safe operation, technical success and protection of specialized equipment.
Tier 3 Studios and Labs:
Require longer or multi-stage training and/or certification prior to use
May require direct IML staff involvement throughout setup, operation or teardown
Require reservations and approval in advance
May have limited availability based on staffing, equipment readiness or project scope
Digital Capture Studio – Movella Motion Capture
Digital Capture Studio is a space designed for photography, artwork documentation, 3D scanning, and photogrammetry workflows. Use of the Movella Motion Capture suits is also available to use in the studio as well as off-site.
Use of the Movella motion capture suits may recommend a completion of training prior to use via booking a consultation.
Training my include:
Orientation to motion capture workflows
Suit handling, fitting, and hygiene protocols
Calibration and data capture considerations
File management and post-capture expectations
All Movella motion capture use requires an approved reservation submitted in advance. Same-day or walk-up access is not permitted. Movella motion capture suits and related components are managed through IML Equipment Checkout and may only be issues to authorized users.
Experience + Edit Center – 3D Screenings + Roto Haptic Chairs
The Experience + Edit Center is a space designed for 2D and 3D film and video screenings, post-production workflows, and shared VR experiences.
3D screenings and use of the Roto Haptic Chairs involve additional set up requirements beyond standard 3D screenings or post-production workflows. Due to the technical complexity of the setup and the potential need for direct IML staff support.
Use of the Experience + Edit Center requires an advance consultation to review the scope of the screening or experience planned. Same-day or walk-up access is not permitted.
This consultation will also be used to:
Confirm content format and technical requirements
Assess system configuration needs
Determine whether staff-led setup or operation is required
Establish timing for setup, testing and teardown
Additional training or orientation may be required prior to independent use, depending on the scope of the request.
All use of the Experience + Edit Center is subject to maximum occupancy and capacity limited as determined by fire code and life-safety requirements. Experience + Edit Center’s maximum capacity is 20. Users are responsible for ensuring that all participants, crew, and observers remain within approved capacity limits. Exceeding capacity may result in immediate suspension of use.
Rapid Prototyping Lab – Stratasys 3D Printer
The Rapid Prototyping Lab is a fabrication-focused space designed for hands-on experimentation, model building, and iterative design. The Rapid Prototyping hosts a Stratasys 3D printer intended for high-resolution, complex or specialized 3D printing workflows that exceed the capabilities of the Bambu Lab printers. Due to the technical complexity, material requirements, and operational risk associated with this equipment, the 3D printer is operated by IML staff only.
Users must consult with IML staff to prepare, submit, and process print jobs. Unauthorized use of the Stratasys printer is not permitted. All Stratasys print jobs must be scheduled in advance.
Materials used in the Stratasys printer are managed exclusively by IML staff. Personal materials are not permitted unless explicitly approved by IML staff as part of a specific project.
Upon completion, finished prints will be transferred to IML Equipment Checkout for pickup. Users are responsible for retrieving completed prints within two weeks.
XR Studio
The XR Studio is a virtual production stage designed to support advanced media workflows. XR Studio general use includes approved activities that do not involve motion capture or Unreal Engine integrations such as:
Presentations and reviews
Artwork installations and exhibitions
2D, untracked video shoots
360-degree video shoots
Other use cases approved by IML staff
Unreal Engine integrations
OptiTrack Motion Capture
Use of the XR Studio requires completion of training for independent use, or the user must be accompanied by a trained IML staff member for the duration of use. Users who have not completed the required training may only access the XR Studio with direct supervision and collaboration with trained IML staff or Faculty members.
Opti-Track motion capture sessions require setup and calibration prior to use. Please refer to the hygiene policy under building procedures for OptiTrack suit use.
Bookings must be submitted at least two weeks in advance. Approval is contingent upon:
Space availability
Completion of the required training
Staff availability if applicable
Same-day or walk-up access is not permitted. XR Studio use may require extended setup and teardown time.
Use of the XR Studio is not permitted for projects that involve:
Pornographic or explicit sexual content
Sexually exploitative content
Content that depicts or promotes cruelty, harm, or exploitation of humans or animals
Content that promotes hate, harassment, or discrimination toward individuals or groups
Activities that violate CIA, MCC, or local/state/federal laws
Activities that compromise the safety, structural integrity or function of the XR Studio infrastructure
All XR Studio projects are subject to review during consultation and booking approval. IML Staff reserve the right to determine whether proposed content falls under these categories. If concerns arise about content, IML staff may request additional information, require modifications to the project or deny use of the XR Studio.
To protect personnel, equipment and facility infrastructure, the following activities are strictly prohibited in the XR Studio during use:
Lean objects against the LED wall
Attach materials, tape, or fasteners to LED panels
Attempt to service, troubleshoot, or modify LED systems
No liquids of any kind are permitted on the LED floor. Prohibited liquids include, but are not limited to:
Water (including bottled water)
Coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks
Alcoholic beverages
Fake blood, stage blood, or theatrical blood products
Other theatrical or film substances including fake sweat
Paints, inks and dyes
Cleaning solutions or solvents
Adhesives, resins or liquid bonding agents
Cosmetics such as nail polish, makeup, removers or setting sprays
Any other liquid based art or production materials
No food or drink is permitted in the XR Studio. The green room is excluded from this rule.
Any project requiring liquids, simulated liquids, or atmospheric effects must be reviewed and approved during a consultation with IML staff. In most cases, such effects are not permitted in the XR Studio.
Any spill, leak, suspected liquid contact or damage (such as scratches) on the LED floor; wall or studio infrastructure must be reported immediately to IML staff.
Only authorized IML staff may climb, access or work at height on the LED wall or supporting structures. Only authorized IML staff may remove, adjust, or replace LED panels or related hardware.
Do not block or attempt to block vents in the XR Studio.
All use of the XR Studio is subject to maximum occupancy and capacity limited as determined by fire code and life-safety requirements. XR Studio’s maximum capacity is 48. Users are responsible for ensuring that all participants, crew, and observers remain within approved capacity limits. Exceeding capacity may result in immediate suspension of use.