Software validates and optimizes 3D printing parameters

Teton Simulation’s SmartSlice software virtually validates and optimizes 3D printing parameters. It embeds in existing slicer programs and is fast and simple to use, says the company.

The CAE (computer-aided engineering) software is designed for prototyping jobs performed on FFF (fused filament fabrication)-style printers. It validates the structural performance of a part and tells the user how strong and stiff the part will be, taking into account the filament the part is printed from, the part’s orientation to the build plate, and the print settings.

Without simulation software, the only way to evaluate the performance of a given design is to print a physical prototype and test it, explains Teton. The primary advantage of using virtual prototyping is it allows users to explore many different designs and do so in a fraction of the time required with physical prototyping.