What is 3DP-TIPS: 3D Printing Training & Instructional Printing Support?
Despite the ubiquity of 3D printers, finding resources that match your class's needs can be challenging. The Fabrication Underground's 3DP-TIPS service may be the ideal solution. It stands out from traditional 3D printing services in several key ways:
Accessibility: Our resources are available to everyone at the University of Michigan.
Inclusivity: We welcome both beginners and advanced users.
Comprehensive Training: Our training and certification program is offered online via Canvas.
Certification: Students who complete the online certification receive a 'Certificate of Completion' in PDF format.
Hands-On Experience: Students gain hands-on experience with additive technologies.
Flexibility: Students manage their own time through our reservation system.
Why Choose the Fabrication Underground?
We have worked diligently to make our 3DP-TIPS service affordable, user-friendly, and transparent. Your students will have access to well-maintained equipment and trained staff to assist them. Our available 3DP-TIPS printers include:
Additionally, we offer in-person workshops and access to other resources such as a laser cutter, electronics workbenches, and a woodshop.
How Does it Work?
Faculty approval is required to use the 3DP-TIPS service as it operates on a cost recovery model.
Registration and Access:
Upon registering your class, you will receive an access code and a link to the 3DP-TIPS Dashboard. This portal allows you to view registered classes, monitor remaining hours, add additional time, and track 3D printer utilization.
You can register additional courses and use different shortcodes for each. Print time is added in 12-hour blocks on the machines of your choice, with the total cost dynamically updated. After confirming your order, you and your administrative contact will receive an invoice and instructions to share with your students.
Prusa MK 4 Student Access:
Equipment, including the Prusa MK 4, is reserved in 3-hour blocks: 9:00 to 12:00, 12:00 to 3:00, 3:00 to 6:00, and 6:00 to 9:00. To reserve time on the Prusa MK 4, students need an access code and the appropriate certification.
Students select their preferred date and time. The reserved 3D printer hours will be deducted from your class's total. Students can cancel up to 3 hours prior to their appointment, restoring the deducted time.
If there isn’t enough reserved time to cover a student’s request, it will be rejected. If a student doesn’t reserve adequate time or the print job exceeds the 9:00 pm deadline, the print will be canceled.
Form 3 Auto and BigRep Job Submissions:
For print time on the Form 3 Auto and/or BigRep 3D printers, students can submit jobs for review, approval, and printing. This service allows for iterative design, with print time deducted from the reserved hours, eliminating the need for invoices or shortcodes for students.
Students require an access code with sufficient print time and the appropriate certification. Risky setups will be rejected and failed prints are charged against your reservation, so we encourage students to ask questions and actively participate.
To get started, create an account by completing the 3DP-TIPS Registration form, which will register your course and provide shortcode details.
Within a few minutes, you will receive a confirmation email with your access code and a link to the 3DP-TIPS Dashboard. This dashboard allows you to view your courses, add additional courses, manage time, and monitor the utilization of 3D printing resources.
Steps to Get Started:
Register your class by completing the 3DP-TIPS Registration form.
Review your reservations or add more time by logging into the 3DP-TIPS Dashboard.
We are here to help
If you have questions please stop by the Fabrication Underground or email dc-fabrication@umich.edu.