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Funding provided by the Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library (SRFOL), with an additional 1/3 matching funds provided by the City of San Diego,
enabled the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center to purchase two 3D printers and to provide supplies
to facilitate the operation of a free 3D Printing Service for library patrons.
If you use or wish to support the Scripps Ranch Library's 3D Printing Service, please consider making a donation to the SRFOL
to help defray the costs of operating and maintaining the 3D printers.
Click (https://www.srfol.org/donate.htm)
for details about how to make a donation.
3D Print Submission Process
- Use tools on your own computer to create an .STL 3D print file.
- Click the following link to submit your 3D print file to the Scripps Ranch Library:
3D Print by Request Service
- Enter your full name and email address on the online submission form.
- Specify a desired color to print your part on the online submission form.
(If your desired color is not available, the print will default to black PLA.)
- Specify and attach your .STL print file to the online submission form.
- Click the "Submit" button on the submission form.
- You will receive an email message when your printed part is complete and ready for pickup.
- If there is a processing or printing error, the error message will be emailed to you.
- Go to the front desk at the Scripps Ranch Library and give them your name.
The library staff will bring your printed part to you.
- Completed prints must be collected within 2 weeks of the emailed notification.
General Information
- One print per person per week
- Print files must be in .STL format
- Prints must be under 200 grams; see FAQ (below) for more information
- Files are usually printed in under a week
- Both 3D printer models are Makerbot Replicator+
- Largest printed part dimensions are 6.5" (16.5 cm) tall; 7.6" (19.5 cm) deep; 11.6" (29.5 cm) wide
- Files will be printed in PLA filament
- A specific print color may be selected; supported colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, white, grey, and black
- If your desired color (and alternate color, if specified) is not available, the part will be printed in black
- Questions? Contact: scripps.ranch.library@gmail.com
3D Modelling Applications and Websites
You may use any modelling software on your own computer to create your .STL print file.
If you are unsure of what software to use, here are some suggestions:
- Click (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3D_printing)
for a general introduction to 3D printing.
- It is important to be aware of the limitations of 3D printers and what types of models can be produced.
Here are some good tips to keep in mind when creating a model:
Click (https://3dinsider.com/3d-printing-model-design/).
- Beginner 3D Printing Software
- Intermediate 3D Printing Software
- Advanced 3D Printing Software
- Fusion 360 (Free for Students; $60/month if not)
- Blender (Free)
- Difficult to learn; best for organic shapes; not specific to engineering models.
- Click (http://www.blender.org)
- Model Libraries
- A wide range of 3D print models and great websites to spark ideas.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- How much does it cost to print?
- There is no cost to patrons, who are not charged for the privilege of using the 3D printer.
All costs are borne by the Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library (SRFOL) with an additional 1/3 matching funds provided by the City of San Diego.
- How can I help support 3-D printing at the library?
- Is there a limit to how frequently patrons can submit print requests?
- Patrons are limited to one print per week.
- Is there a limit to how big the model can be?
- The printed part must fit within the maximum dimensions (6.5" (16.5 cm) tall; 7.6" (19.5 cm) deep; 11.6" (29.5 cm) wide)
and must weigh under 200 grams.
However, please be aware that larger prints are much more susceptible to failure than smaller prints.
If larger prints are needed, consider printing smaller portions of the part and glue them together.
- How big is a 200 gram 3D print?
- This is difficult to estimate; but with a typical infill it would create a model between the size of a baseball and a volleyball.
If the print is not very large with a high infill, it will most likely be fine.
- You can use a slicer (software) to get an exact amount.
Reducing infill is a very effective way to reduce weight.
- How do I use a slicer to calculate the weight of a part?
- What colors are available?
- Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, white, grey, and black.
- What are the print bed dimensions?
- 6.5" (16.5 cm) tall; 7.6" (19.5 cm) deep; 11.6" (29.5 cm) wide.
- Can I submit my own project settings?
- Yes.
Use the Additional Information section on the print submission form to request specific print settings.
- Do I need a library card in order to use the 3D Printing Service?
- A library card is not required.
The only requirements for ordering a 3D print at the Scripps Ranch Library are a valid email address
and a willingness to come to the Scripps Ranch Library to pick up the item.
- Can I watch 3D items actually get printed?
- Yes, the 3D printers are located in the Library's IDEA Lab.
Ask at the Circulation Desk for directions to the IDEA Lab.
7" Diameter Leafed Bowl
3D Printed at the
Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center
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