Academics & Researchers


No matter who we're working with, at Presto Proto, we view ourselves as a collaborative business. We know that many universities have a 3D printer or even a lab. We are not here to compete with those resources, we're here to supplement them. To date, the main  services we provide for researchers are:

3D Modeling & CAD Design:

  • Scan cleanup (see photos)
    Top flower is after cleaning the scan
    Bottom flower is the raw scan
  • Functional tools
    - creation of new tools
    - creating cost saving replacements of existing tools

Specialized 3D Printing:

  • Advanced Materials
    - Flexible
    - High heat resistance
    - Chemical resistance
    - Aerospace & engineering grade materials (for function, display, & research testing)
  • High detailed resin
    - extremely accurate (10 microns on z-axis)
    - can be hand painted
    - fully automated multicolor coming soon
  • Visual Outreach & Communication Pieces
    - Enhanced data displays
    (ex: topographic 3D print with data overlay)
    - Enlarged, color-mapped specimens

Eliminate Time Sinks

In our experience, even though universities may have a 3D printing lab, they don't have 3D modeling teams there to assist you with necessary 3D modeling assistance.  In other cases, the 3D printing lab doesn't have enough printers to do high volume work. Since we are a print farm and design firm, we can provide both high volume printing and 3D modeling services, allowing you to focus on your research.

Create New Tools & Save on Existing Ones

We understand that Academics are often in need of extremely niche tools for their research, and are left with one overpriced option to purchase these tools.

Our main work focuses on improving and replacing parts in industrial settings, and can easily replicate, improve, or create new tools that will save you money and can improve the existing process.

At an Affordable Price

We call our pricing model the "Make Sense" price. We are not going to charge pennies and send a part that will only function once, nor will we overcharge you for aerospace grade materials for a simple desk organizer.

Design work is charged by the hour and print work is charged by the amount and type of materials necessary for your project.

So, how can we help?

  • Design Something

    Use this link for all projects that need some design consideration.

    Design for me 

  • Print Something

    If you already have a file ready to be printed but need our advanced printing processes & materials, please use this link.

    Print for me 

  • Try Something New

    Our favorite part about working with academics and researchers is you are on the cutting edge of your field and this means you often have a need for something that's never been done before. We would love to use our expertise to brainstorm ideas to make it happen!

    Let's discuss