Innovation Studio (Old)

Policies & Procedures

Policies

• 3D printing is available for free to all current UCO students, staff, and faculty.
• Designs must adhere to the UCO Technology and Network Usage Policy.
• We reserve the right to refuse a print request for any object that may pose a danger to others, including edged cutting devices, weapons, weapon parts, or weapon accessories. This right of refusal also includes replicas and prototypes.
• Patrons can produce their own designs or download designs from online Design Sites. Files should be in .stl or .obj format.
• We reserve the right to refuse any print request without a clear indication of the requesting patron having permission to print the file. Such permission typically takes one of three forms:
  • The file was created by the patron, who is the copyright holder.
  • The file is in the public domain or is licensed under Creative Commons or a similar open copyright arrangement.
  • The file was purchased. Proof of purchase may be required.
• Chambers Library is not responsible for the finished print results.
• Multiple files can be sent in together as a .zip file if they are all parts of a single finished object. Otherwise, please send each file as a separate submission. Do not include extraneous files in a .zip.
• Our limit for total print length is 10 hours per submission.
• Patrons should submit one print request at a time. Once the first submission is printed and picked up, a new request can be submitted.
• Models not picked up after 1 week become the property of Chambers Library unless prior arrangements have been made.
• We reserve the right to grant exceptions to these policies for academic submissions that are part of a class assignment.

Procedures

• Staff will contact you within 5 business days (Mon-Fri) to note design approval and offer appointment choices (if you selected to be present at the print). Call 974-5154 if you have not been contacted.
• Staff will print the files exactly as sent, without modifications such as scaling up or down. If your print needs to be a different size, use 3D Design Software to change it before submitting the file.
• After approval and appointment booking, your print will be placed in the queue.
• If you are not present at printing, staff will contact you when print is completed and provide directions for pickup

FAQs

• How does a 3D printer work? Prints are made by rendering a physical object from a digital model, using the process of fused filament fabrication. The computer moves a heated nozzle that feeds plastic filament building layer upon layer from the base of the item up. CNN Explains: 3-D Printing
• Do I create my digital model on the 3D printer computer? Not at this time.The computer is dedicated to the printer and has the printing software Simplify, that will slice (read and print).stl or .obj files.
• Does the Library have 3D design software I can use? Scuptris is available on computers in the Innovation Studio. The Virtual Reality computer has Media and Blocks. You can book the Virtual Reality computer to use the software. 
• How detailed are the 3D prints? Detailed print can be achieved. However, the more intricacy required, the longer the print time, regardless of size. A minimum scale is determined by the combined dimensions of the width, height, and depth. Minimum size subject to Innovation Studio staff approval.
• Who can pick up my model? It must be picked up by individual who submitted the design, using a valid photo ID.
• What colors can I use? At this time, specific filament colors are not available for request.
• What if the print is rough? Rough areas can happen, but we can work with you on delicate projects. Tools for smoothing are available and fine sandpaper will help.