Sketchfab is an online platform for hosting and sharing 3D models. Models may be annotated, color-coded, and have voice overs or audio to serve as teaching tools. Here's a listing of a few institutional Sketchfab accounts that have anatomical models available for teaching and learning.
An interactive website which supports generating anatomical diagrams and animations of the human body. The Anatomography website is maintained by the DBCLS (Database Center for Life Science) non-profit research institute located at the University of Tokyo.
The NIH 3D Print Exchange provides models in formats that are readily compatible with 3D printers, and offers a unique set of tools to create and share 3D-printable models related to biomedical science.
MorphoMuseuM is a peer reviewed journal that publishes 3D models of vertebrates, including models of type specimens, anatomy atlases, reconstruction of deformed or damaged specimens, and 3D datasets. Acceptable 3D file types are .ply, .vtk, and .st
Blender is a free and open source 3D creation suite. It supports the entirety of the 3D pipeline—modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing and motion tracking, even video editing and game creation.
Slicing Software
A slicer program converts your 3D scans/models into files that contain instructions that your 3D printer can easily understand, thus making them ready for printing.
Design a model in standard CAD software, then import the STL or OBJ file into the print preparation software, PreForm. Get your model ready in minutes, upload to the printer, and let it build.
The Engineering Library owns a MakerBot Replicator Mini, using the MakerBot Print software, to print models up to 4″ x 4″ x 5″. Larger models must be printed using the Engineering Technology Centers.
The Engineering Technology Centers offers two levels of 3D printing.
- Basic 3D Printing provided by the Engineering Electronics Shop using consumer grade 3D printing services via Makerbot 3D.
- Advanced 3D Printing provided by the Engineering Machine Shop using advanced additive printing techniques by optimizing resolution, slicing, materials, and build orientation with the use of commercial grade 3D printers.