Central Michigan University (CMU) has upgraded its MakerBot Innovation Center, which was launched a decade ago as the Midwest’s first public university 3D printing lab. “Over time, it became clear that the space needed some refreshing, and technology has also improved since we got those printers,” said Scott de Brestian, chairperson and associate professor of art history.
Thanks to funding from the Go Grants initiative, CMU’s newly re-named Art and Design 3D Printing Technology Center (AD3PT Center) now includes 15 new Bambu Lab X1E 3D printers, which allow for faster and more efficient printing, as well as the ability to capture time-lapse photos and videos to document the creation of each print.
“In terms of speed and quality, they are vastly more capable than the previous generation of printers,” said de Brestian. “It’s great for rapid prototyping. And something that has potential to expose students to ideas and worlds that they would not otherwise be able to engage with other than on a screen.”
Located inside Wightman Hall, the AD3PT Center is a collaboration between the College of the Arts and Media and the Department of Art and Design, and is available for use by any current student, faculty member, or staff member.
Clients will also see a more cost-friendly pricing structure. “We’re substantially reducing our prices because the Bambu printer filament is cheaper than what we were using,” said de Brestain.
Using the AD3PT Center is easier than ever. After a client submits their design file through the online AD3PT Print Request form, they’ll receive an estimated printing cost based on the amount of filament used. Once approved, the item goes to print, and the client will receive an email notification when it’s ready for pickup.
