LibGuides: Maker Space: Getting Started

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing or additive manufacturing is the construction of a three-dimensional object from a CAD model or a digital 3D model. It can be done in a variety of processes in which material is deposited, joined or solidified under computer control, with material being added together (such as plastics, liquids or powder grains being fused), typically layer by layer.

3D printing - Wikipedia

Step 1. Prepare

Option 1: Use an Existing 3D Model
Thingiverse contains more than 2.5 million 3D models, and that number is growing every day. Check out all the incredible objects people have created and get inspired to make your own!

Option 2: Create Your Own 3D Model
Want to make your own 3D model? We recommend using TinkerCad, a free web app for 3D design, electronics, and coding.

AutoCAD, a more advanced 2D and 3D computer-aided-design (CAD) software application is also available for members of the CCSU community with valid credentials.

Step 2. Submit

Use the 3D Print Submission Form to upload your file for printing.
Your file should be saved as either an .stl or a .MakerBot file.

Step 3. Pick Up

A library staff member will review your submission and--assuming everything is in order--your job will be released to one of our two printers.

You will be notified when your print job is complete and can come in to EB209 to pick up your project.

Policies

Access, Time and Material

Access
Use of the Maker Space is limited to members of the CCSU community with a valid university ID (Blue Chip Card). This includes, faculty, staff, and students.

Duration of Printing
Jobs that require more than four hours to print will be rejected so as to allow for more equal access to the printers. If it is determined that your job will exceed this limit, you will be notified. You may resubmit the job at a smaller scale or infill.

Material Use
Jobs that require more than 100 grams of filament will be rejected so as to allow for more equal use of materials. Users will be limited to a maximum of 500 grams of filament per month.

Usage Limitations^[1]

Intellectual Property
In using the Maker Space, I agree to the following statement on intellectual property: "I warrant that I am authorized to use the applicable files, data, images, or any other materials (collectively "Content") in the Maker Space and that the use of the Content will not infringe upon any third-party's copyright, patent, trademark trade secret or other proprietary or intellectual property rights."

Safety and Security
In keeping the CCSU Violence Free Campus Policy, the production of items that pose a threat to anyone (i.e., weapons) is strictly prohibited.

Respect and Professionalism
In keeping with CCSU's commitment to a campus environment that fosters respect for the dignity, rights and aspirations of each member of the University community, we ask that you use common sense in your use of the MakerSpace.

[1] These policies are adapted from the policies of the MakerSpace of NCSU Libraries http://www.lib.ncsu.edu/makerspace/policies

Maker Space: Getting Started