Prototyping Studio

Studio Policies

Patrons and users are responsible for the following:

• Leave the room in good condition for the next patrons, including resetting the room and placing trash in trash bins.
• Report any problems or issues with the space or equipment a Studio staff member immediately.
• Don’t leave your personal property unattended, including library materials that have been checked out. The Library is not liable for loss/damage to personal property.

Personal Data and Information

• Studios equipment is preloaded with available applications, and temporary storage space is available during your booking. Long-term storage is not guaranteed. We are not responsible for, nor can we recover, lost data.

General Policies

• Equipment owned by the University Libraries should not be removed from the Studio without prior approval from management.
• Studios are not intended to provide privacy. Library staff may enter the rooms as needed for security, maintenance, or other reasons.
• Library Management reserves the right to resolve schedule problems by adjusting reservations or schedules.
• Patrons must follow all directives from library staff, including orders to leave the building in the situation in which the library needs to close early.

Repeated violations of these policies could result in administrative action, including – but not limited to – deletion of reservations or removal of an individual’s ability to make Studios reservations.

Please note, Studios’ management does not guarantee the availability of all advertised hardware or software. Some advanced equipment may require consultation with the Studio manager before it will be made available.

3D Printing Rules and Policies

• Free Printing! Class and academic projects will observe unlimited printing. Personal projects may incur restrictions-contact us for details.
• Staff operates all machines and equipment. For your own safety, the door to the 3D printers will remain closed when the Studio is not open. Do not ask library staff to let you into the back room when we are closed.
• Prints should be under 500 grams in material volume. Prints over 500 grams will need to be scaled down or broken into parts. If your print has to be 500 grams or larger, you must request permission from the manager.
• Please allow 1-2 weeks lead time for completing your print. The Studio strives to accommodate all patrons of the University, which may lead to delays. We provide an estimate of how long it might take to print your model but that estimate is subject to change. 
• Color requests are not guaranteed. If you have a color preference for your finished print, please indicate your preference to us when you submit a file. We cannot guarantee that your print will be the color you prefer.
  
• One print at a time. You can submit combined models in one file in at a time, as long as the combined objects fit within the constraints of our print beds.
• No Weapons. The Studio will not print anything that resembles or can function as a weapon.
• No email submissions. We will not accept files over email. 

3D printing can be intimidating, so here are some resources that represent a wide range of helpful software to 3D printers of all skill levels.

Introductions to 3D printing

• SHAPEWAYS – Tutorials for 3D modeling in different software, creating models to be printed, and modeling basics.
• Autodesk – Online YouTube tutorials made by the company. More video tutorials can be found by viewing Autodesk Education’s other YouTube videos. 

3D Design:

• Tinkercad by Autodesk – A free web-based 3D digital modeling tool that allows you to create shapes and models. It also allows you to import vector shapes and extrude them into 3D models.
  • Tinkercad Tutorial
• Sketchup Make – A free 3D modeling software that you easily extrude custom shapes and designs.
  • Sketchup Tutorials

3D model repositories:

• Thingiverse – A website with a library of pre-designed 3D printable models available for download.
• GrabCAD – A website of free pre-made CAD files available for download.

Who can use the Studios? Does it cost anything?

Our services and spaces are available for everyone at no cost. For 3D printing, there is a 2,000 grams cap on how much material you can print each semester for personal projects. Academic printing is unlimited. 

How do I get something 3D scanned?

Make an appointment through this website.

Can I 3D scan myself or another person?

Yes, we can scan human subjects but there are safety considerations. It is not recommended for people with light sensitivities, epilepsy, or similar conditions. The subject needs to be still for long periods of time and might need to stand for long periods of time. It can take multiple hours to complete these scans so please plan accordingly. 

If you have other questions about 3D scanning human subjects, please schedule a consultation with the Studio manager or visit the 3D Scanning Studio webpage. 

How do I submit something to be 3D printed, laser cut, or manufactured on another machine?

Bring a file of your model, design, or project on a USB drive to the studio. If you don't have a USB drive we have some you can borrow. The student worker will load your file into our queue, ask you some questions about your project, and prepare it for manufacturing. 

We do not accept file submissions online, remotely, or through email.

What is the largest size model I can print?

Our largest FDM print bed is about 11.5 x 11.5 x 10.5 inches. Our standard FDM print volume is about 9 x 8 x 8 inches. The resin printer’s build volume is 145 × 145 × 175 mm. 

How many prints can I submit at once?

You can submit one file at a time. If you have multiple models that you want printed at once, combine them into one file before submitting. Be aware of scales and sizes of models combined into one file. We can't 3D print anything that needs over 500 grams of material at one time. 

How long does it take to print at the studio?

Depending on demand, you can expect to pick up your print between 1-3 days after submitting. When we’re busy you can expect about 1-2 weeks. Please note that these estimates are flexible and not guaranteed. 

For actual print time - which starts once your model is loaded onto a printer - it takes about 1-14 hours, depending on the size and design of the model.

Can I use the printers on my own?

Due to safety and security concerns, only Studios staff can operate the printers, laser cutters, and other manufacturing machines.

Is my project or print ready to be picked up yet?

Please stop by the Studio to ask in person about the status of your project if it's taking longer than expected to finish it. You receive an automated email when your project is completed and ready to be picked up. 

Where can I learn 3D modeling and printing?

There are loads of tutorials and accessible software out there for 3D design. Check the Prototyping Studio website for a list to get started. 

The Studios offer workshops on a variety of topics and technologies. Visit calendar.lib.vt.edu/events to find and register for upcoming workshops.

Are there other spaces on campus that have 3D printers?

Yes, here is a list of makerspaces on campus (link). Some may not have 3D printers, some may restrict access to a certain group of people, and others may have costs attached to their services.

If you have other inquiries that aren't included in this list, email us at protostudio@vt.edu or schedule a consultation through this link. Look for a topic that you feel is relevant to your question or project, then pick a date and time for your appointment. If you're not sure what topic makes the most sense for you, choose "Maker Skills."