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3D Printing

Resources to support 3d printing, or additive manufacturing, at Penn State

An introduction to 3D scanning

3D scanning is a process that collects data on any physical object or space and uses that data to create a digital three-dimensional model. At present, the University Libraries at the Schuylkill campus is investigating the utility of having a 3D laser scanner available to the campus as a library service. Much like 2D scanning of documents and books, the 3D scanner will provide a space for students, faculty, and staff to scan objects both for research and instruction.

3d Scanning equipment locations

The MakerCommons at University Park campus in the University Libraries Knowledge Commons

  • MakerBot Digitizer – Good for scanning: non-shiny objects under 8 inches with medium-level detail
  • MakerWare for Digitizer software available on all Media Commons iMac computers

 The Schuylkill campus library has a NextEngine 3D Laser Scanner.