Kansas State University students are using 3-D printers to make their ideas come to life.

Two architecture professors are using the printers to help students explore the limits of gravity and to challenge themselves as designers. Engineering students create parts, tools and prototypes for research and student projects. They even use the printers to design robots.

Eric Wagner is a research technician for the department of mechanical and nuclear engineering and manages a large printer. He says the printer helps researchers check their design and make sure it is going to work before they invest the time and money to make the final product.

He says the larger printer runs nearly 24 hours a day. When classes aren’t in session, it generates revenue by creating pieces for companies and industry.