Policy for 3D printing

Who Can Print?

The 3D printer is available for use by Geography students, faculty, and staff. Printing is done on a first-come, first-serve basis with priority given to course projects and research application deadlines.

Terms of Use and Copyright

Projects utilizing the Sharpe Innovation Commons 3D printers must do so for lawful purposes. Users must abide by all applicable laws, departmental and University policies. The Department of Geography and the Sharpe Innovation Commons staff reserve the right to decline any print request for any reason.

The Ohio State University abides by the copyright laws of the United States (Title 17, U.S. Code). These laws govern photocopying or creating other reproductions of copyrighted materials. All users of the 3D printers must follow all copyright laws. For more information, please visit the University Libraries website regarding Copyright Basics.

The 3D printer may not be used to create material that is:

  1. Prohibited by local, state, or federal law
  2. Unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others. (Such use may violate the terms of use of the manufacturer)
  3. Obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the University environment
  4. In violation of another’s intellectual property rights. For example, the printer may not be used to reproduce material subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection.

Geography Rights and Responsibilities

The Department of Geography reserves the right to:

  1. Decline any print request for any reason.
  2. Refuse any 3D print request and use staff discretion to organize the print queue for overall efficient output and priorities.
  3. Photograph all 3D objects printed; publicly share user-submitted information in conjunction with institutional data policies and photographs related to print jobs. Images and information will be used for monitoring, marketing, and reporting outcomes.
  4. Gather feedback to better understand uses and needs
  5. Implement additional requirements to streamline the process of vetting, printing, and reporting.

Cost of 3D Printing

The user is responsible for all errors that occur during printing involving the stereolithographic (.stl) file and design of the model. If the object does not print correctly due to design errors, it is the responsibility of the user to pay for the object (either cost of ruined filament or repairs to the machine). At the moment, printing is free to Geography students, faculty, and staff. After an evaluation period, this may be adjusted due to demand. At that time, a fee structure will be put in place.  

Charges associated with misuse of the equipment

  1. Using unapproved filament in the printers - $25
  2. Producing fire or excessive smoke that requires staff intervention
    1. First instance: $25
    2. Second instance: $50
    3. Third instance: $100
    4. Additional instances will result in a permanent ban from printer usage
  3. Damage to machine – cost of repair/replacement
  4. Loss or damage to extruder head – cost of repair or replacement