GET CREATIVE in the Technology Showcase!

Equipped with Cricuit vinyl cutters, sewing and embroidery machines, a Glowforge laster cutter and four Ultimaker 3D printers for use by current GVSU students, faculty, and staff, the Technology Showcase is a space where you can design and create!

COST

Current GVSU students, faculty, and staff can submit a 3D print request for FREE with a current and valid GVSU ID.

CONTACT

Have a question about 3D printing in the TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE at GVSU?

[email protected]
(616) 331-9536*

* Note phone hours only available during showcase open hours.

HOURS

FALL/WINTER SEMESTERS

  • Monday – Thursday
    • 10:00 am – 9:00 p.m.
  • Friday
    • 10:00 am – 5:00 p.m.

SUMMER

  • Monday through Friday
    • 10:00 am – 5:00 p.m.
3D Printing at GVSU

3D PRINTING POLICY

We believe in artistic expression, however, no one will be permitted to use the 3D printers to create material that is:

  1. Prohibited by local, state or federal law.
  2. Unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses a threat to the well-being of others.
  3. Obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the university's educational environment.
  4. In violation of another person's intellectual property rights.

Our 3D printing services may only be used for lawful purposes.

All students, faculty, and staff must present a valid GVSU ID and email address, along with a valid 3D print file, in person to submit a print request. 

To ensure capacity and availability of printing to the GVSU community, singular files must be under 12 hours when submitted. For class assignments or educational prints, students may submit a state of reasoning if believed that a special circumstance requires more time. 

In one single order, each file request is limited to 5 similar/related files. (For example, 5 parts of a file that you’re making, or 5 replicas of a keychain.)

All patrons must pick up their previous order prior to submitting a new order. There may not be two orders for the same person in the queue at one time.

Class or educational prints require at least 3 business days (Monday through Friday, not including the day submitted) to assure that they can be completed before the assignment due date. An electronic submission of the assignment proof will be needed.

The TECHNOLOGY SHOWCASE reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.

How to Submit a 3D Print Request

Step 1: Prepare a 3D Print File in .STL Format

Step 2: Visit the Showcase to Submit your Print Request

Step 3: Wait for Email indicating your Print is Ready

Step 4: Visit the Showcase and Pick up your Print

Step 5: Enjoy your Creation!

What type of filament is available in the showcase makerspace?

  • PLA (Polylactic Acid) 

How large of a print do you support?

  • The 3D object cannot be larger than 215 x 215 x 300 mm (7.5 x 7.5 x 12 inches).

How do I print something?

  • Students, faculty, or staff with a valid GVSU ID can enter into the showcase during open hours to submit a request.

  • An .stl file is required.

Can you design files for me?

  • Unfortunately, not at this time. Thingiverse is the easiest way to find a file. Students, faculty, and staff can also come to the showcase and discuss their idea or project.

How can I get in contact with the showcase to ask questions about 3D printing?

3D Printing Guidelines for Class Assignments

  • Only .stl files are accepted

  • A maximum of 5 files is allowed in a single order

  • A maximum of 12 hours of print time will be allowed (longer print times by justification can be requested)

  • Students new to 3D printing can use a simple CAD (computer-aided design) software like tinkercad.com to design a file

  • 3D printing files that are custom and personalized, rather than prefabricated files or designs from sites such as Thingiverse are encouraged 

  • Students will be required to submit an electronic proof of the assignment, whether that’s through an assignment outline, or a specific summary that’s been included on the syllabus, etc.

  • Faculty planning on utilizing the Technology Showcase’s 3D printing services for an entire class, please review the following:

    • Our Printers

      • Please be courteous to the showcase staff by providing at least 3 rotational due dates for your projects if classes are large or if multiple sections or classes will be working on assignments.

    • Keep in Mind the Time

      • Due to a large demand for our services, we have regulated each print file to be under 12 hours of print-time. It can help students to keep their files small-scaled. If a student (or faculty/staff member) feels that they have a special circumstance that should be allotted more printing time, they can submit a statement of reasoning to the Technology Showcase at: [email protected]

    • The Sooner, The Better

      • The sooner that the students receive the project, the quicker the showcase can ensure that the projects will be done. Encourage Students to come in as early as possible to ensure that their print can be completed. For large style classrooms, about 2 months will provide plenty of time for the students to submit their projects and get them back. For smaller classes, one month is ample time as well. It’s better to err on the side of caution and receive it early, rather than late.  

    • Have a Reserved Solution

      • It does occur where prints cannot be completed on extremely short deadlines. If that does occur, feel free to contact one of our team members at: [email protected]

    • We are excited to help your classes with innovative projects in the showcase, so please reach out if you need any assistance with understanding how the 3D printing process works as well!


Page last modified April 11, 2024
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