By Melissa Donovan
Additive manufacturing (AM) involves complex plans and files. To combat this, advanced software solutions like building preparation software are utilized. The June issue of Industrial Print magazine looks at the functions and necessity of build preparation software. Here, we share specific solutions.
Amsis
Amsis launched a new version of its data preparation and simulation software, Genesis 3 in November 2023. The software is designed to reduce the need for support structures in overhang areas, optimize component surfaces, and enhance mechanical properties. According the company, Genesis 3 allows for complete digital control over the generation process of an AM component.
The software offers three different automated tools to prepare a build job. The user interface displays all available functions for build job strategies. Genesis 3 also offers material-specific, simulation-based thermal segmentation of down skins. The software’s simulation-based hatching design provides an optimal hatch orientation and sequence to improve heat balance for every application. Support structures are generated automatically with the user receiving a preview of the exposure pattern in various displays.
Autodesk
Autodesk Fusion is an integrated design and make offering, while Autodesk Netfabb is a standalone offering. Using Autodesk Fusion as an integrated solution means any changes made to the design flow downstream to build/preparation, so manufacturing engineers do not have to repeat their work on part orientation, nesting, support generation, slicing, and tool pathing. Everything updates automatically based on a single source of truth.
CADS Additive
AM-Studio is a high-end AM solution that guides the user step-by-step through the entire manufacturing process—including the post processing. Highly-developed algorithms and automatisms support the analysis of components, the creation of support geometries, as well as during slicing and hatching.
Dyndrite Corporation
Dyndrite LPBF Pro is a new laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) application that gives material, quality, process, and applications engineers performance and control to solve their toughest geometry and compute challenges, and streamline print preparation processes. Thanks to GPU and multi-threaded processing, Python APIs, and the ability to connect with third-party applications including MES/ERP systems, simulation tools, and in-situ monitoring software, Dyndrite LPBF Pro helps facilitate a world-class manufacturing ecosystem. The software also allows for various file type exports to integrate with LPBF machines from OEMs such as Aconity 3D, EOS, Nikon SLM Solutions, and Renishaw.
Formlabs
Formlabs PreForm software makes it easy for users to prepare three-dimensional (3D) models for quick and convenient printing. PreForm can be used to prepare prints for all Formlabs printers including the stereolithography (SLA) line as well as the selective laser sintering (SLS) line. With PreForm and Fleet Control software, users can manage a single printer or an entire fleet from the cloud, and automate and optimize processes.
PreForm’s simple layout makes it user friendly while still packing powerful features. With many integrations, Formlabs also partnered with CAD software providers to streamline the process of importing design files to PreForm and preparing parts for printing with just a few clicks. Additionally, PreForm is free, so users never need to worry about licenses, annual fees, or installation limits.
Materialise
Materialise Magics offers a full suite of tools ranging from advanced editing, file fixing, build preparation, simulation, and file slicing. It also offers the highest compatibility with files and machines in the industry, according to Materialise. It is agnostic on the input side for file handling and agnostic on the output side for machine integrations. Any machine vendor can integrate with Materialise Magics if needed. It integrates with other software such as design software, external simulation software, and MES/PLM systems. Magics also provides a user-friendly interface that can be used by both newcomers as well as seasoned professionals, offering advanced features such as automated support generation, quality control, and simulation. Magics includes features that allow an organization to focus on sustainability by accounting for the use of materials, energy, and machine output.
Oqton
3DXpert is a one-stop-shop for AM. Streamline workflow, maximize efficiency, and avoid costly errors, by completing all AM processes in the same software environment, including DfAM, build preparation, simulation, and inspection.
According to the company, achieve up to 75 percent faster file processing time with CAD to slice workflows. No more compromising data integrity of mechanically designed parts to STLs. 3DXpert is built on a CAD engine—making history-based, parametric build preparation the new standard in AM. Hybrid DfAM combines the power of solid, mesh, and implicit (voxel-based) modeling.
Essential Part of Today
Whether an integrated or standalone solution, build preparation software is an essential part of the 3D printing puzzle. It streamlines the print process, especially as larger file sizes and build volumes become the norm.
Jun2024, Industrial Print Magazine
