AM Simulation Software Reduces Process Iterations Necessary To Meet Engineering Criteria
Teton Simulation Software, a pioneer in technology for 3D printing, has launched its inaugural software product, Smart Slice for Ultimaker Essentials. The new solution has been created to solve a major problem in the fused-filament fabrication (FFF) additive manufacturing process. When a part is 3D printed, there is a large amount of uncertainty in knowing if the part will perform as intended under end use conditions. This leads to numerous build and break iterations resulting in excessive print times and wasted material use. Smart Slice optimizes print settings, dramatically reducing this costly cycle. The software is seamlessly integrated into Ultimaker’s Cura Enterprise, making it the perfect choice for existing IT infrastructures. The subscription-based offering utilizes patent-pending cloud technology built by Teton over the past four years.
For any 3D printed project, it is common that anywhere between 5 and 50 iterations are necessary to produce a part that meets end use requirements. These costly iterations drastically reduce the advantages of using 3D printing, slowing the overall adoption and growth of the industry. Now the iterations can be made virtually within the Smart Slice software, very quickly, very reliably and very inexpensively.
“Teton’s Smart Slice brings engineering grade part simulation to Cura as an exclusive marketplace plugin for Ultimaker Essentials users. Using the integration options of our open and pluggable platform it will make sure parts still meet their engineering criteria, but need less material and therefore saving valuable time and costs. The cooperation with Teton and the integration of their innovative solution are a prime example of how we will be continuously adding value for our professional customers.” says Paul Heijmans – Senior VP Software at Ultimaker.
Smart Slice has a unique application in the Jigs and Fixtures market. In this sector, broken tools can bring production lines down and traditional manufacturing methods require days or weeks to obtain replacements – leading many companies to use additive manufacturing to replace the broken components. Using Smart Slice in this setting accelerates tool replacement, helping to get production back up and running quickly.
Teton’s focus is on simplicity and speed. Unlike many traditional ‘simulation’ products, Smart Slice is very easy to use and is extremely fast. This allows any user to quickly iterate and validate using the software rather than print unnecessary, wasted parts. Additionally, Smart Slice can automatically optimize parameters so a user can identify the settings that yield the fastest print by minimizing time and material while meeting performance requirements.
“Our Smart Slice technology was built from the ground up to give 3D printer operators near instant feedback on the viability of their project. There is simply no other solution in the industry that can provide lightning-fast, accurate feedback on the ‘as printed’ state of a part. Plus, our optimization feature takes the guesswork out of determining the right slicing parameters. We do all the work, so the user doesn’t have to. All of this capability is provided within the slicer making it very easy to use.” says Mike Kmetz – CEO at Teton Simulation Software.
As an approved plug-in to Ultimaker’s Essential package, Teton’s Smart Slice has met their IT audit requirements making it appropriate for any organization and is available on a 30-day free trial.is available.
For more information: www.tetonsim.com
