Software detects and flags errors during 3D printing jobs

PrintWatch monitors parts being 3D-printed and alerts the operator if an error occurs.

PrintWatch is an error-detection software package and API from printpal.io that monitors parts being 3D-printed in real time and identifies and tracks defects. If a problem arises, the software halts the print job.

According to the Chicago-based developer, these actions prevent a printer from continuing to build a defective part for long periods of time, which wastes material and could damage the printer or the facility that houses it.

In operation, PrintWatch shoots a video of the building process with a camera fixed near the printing area. The streamed video is run through a machine-learning model that spots defects of various sizes, shapes, colors, materials, lightings, and settings. When a defect is positively identified, the software begins to track its development. If it is clear that the defect is worsening, PrintWatch halts the process and alerts the operator. The tracking system helps prevent any false-positives from triggering action from the software.

PrintWatch runs the computationally heavy machine-learning models in the Cloud, meaning any internet-enabled device can access the API.