Cloud and API-based 3D engineering platform provider Metafold has announced new features aimed at promoting wider acceptance of 3D printing and lightweighting as alternatives to conventional manufacturing methods.
The update incorporates compression simulation, conformal mapping for lattice structures, and substantial alterations to both the user interface (UI) and API. These changes aim to improve accessibility for engineers and software developers involved in additive manufacturing design. Additional features comprise template workflows, extended support for import and export file formats, improved project management capabilities for teams, and a revamp of the software architecture to expedite releases of new features in the future.
“Additive manufacturing shouldn’t be so hard, yet the mind-boggling geometric complexities have prevented companies from adopting advanced 3D printing capabilities,” shared Dr. Elissa Ross, Co-Founder and CEO of Metafold. “With our new release, we’re trying to help more companies see all the benefits of additive manufacturing by making our breakthrough geometry kernel accessible to more engineers and more software developers. They can create new shoes, explore biotech developments, or make heat exchange advancements and other innovations while leaving the mathematical intricacies to Metafold.”
Note: Imagery from this article includes Transform complex lattices to perfectly fit part boundaries without sacrificing design intent. Courtesy by Metafold.
Simplifying additive manufacturing
A major advancement is the implementation of one-click simulation for 3D engineered parts, guaranteeing high accuracy in predictive performance for mechanical compression. This simulation enables engineers to quickly evaluate and finalize designs without the need for physical test prints or external simulation tools. Conformal mapping, which is smoothly integrated into Metafold, simplifies the process of mapping lattice cells to a part boundary. By enabling engineers to focus on product design, Metafold takes on the responsibility of effectively handling complex geometry.
Designers find value in the updated user interface, which offers a more user-friendly workspace, reducing the mental effort associated with software navigation and affording more time for creative idea generation. The improved API, built on modern web standards, not only provides more examples but also broadens the accessibility to cutting-edge geometry processing capabilities. It has the potential to speed up the time it takes for web-based applications that handle complex geometry to reach the market.
“The Additive industry is at a critical juncture where design and simulation don’t meet the capabilities of the technology,” commented Jacques Perrault, a 3D Design Pioneer and Influencer. “Metafold’s innovative approach confronts the established order, introducing a new category of additive software that’s scalable and powered by the cloud.”
Metafold is currently providing open beta access to simulation capabilities for the free edition of the Metafold Platform, with a limit of three simulations per month. The Professional edition will also include simulation and conformal mapping in the future. To explore the open beta, click here.
The ease of additive design and simulation
Meltio, a developer of metal 3D printers, recently introduced the Meltio Space software and the Meltio Robot Cell in response to increased demand for the Meltio Engine Robot Integration. The Meltio Robot Cell provides a safer and more efficient solution for 3D printing metal parts. The Meltio Space, a user-friendly toolpath generator, is compatible with a variety of robotic brands and supports both planar and nonplanar toolpaths. The software minimizes errors and ensures accurate 3D printing by simulating robot movements as described here.
Engineering software developer nTop recently released a software update, nTop 4, to address challenges in additive manufacturing design and production. The update includes Field Optimization, a generative design technology that streamlines the AM design process by managing complex parameters and enhancing part performance. The Implicit Interop feature reduces file sizes and facilitates seamless data transfer, eliminating data exchange bottlenecks. nTop Automate, now available for Linux, improves design automation and enables more cost-effective cloud computing. Users also have access to nTop Accelerate, which offers personalized training and workshops.
Read all the 3D Printing Industry coverage from Formnext 2023.
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