Simplify3D develops universal 3D printing software, and they’ve just released a 3.0 version of their popular software that includes over 40 new features. This is the biggest release for Simplify3D’s software since its initial launch back in 2013. Users will appreciate improvements to the user interface, which helps to simplify the 3D printing process, and new tools have been designed to enhance the quality of even the most complex models. There are several important new features included with the 3.0 software, including a Dual Extrusion Wizard, six infill pattern options, a fast slicer, important interface updates, smarter printer profile settings and support for over 125 different 3D printers.
The Dual Extrusion Wizard simplifies the process of configuring a dual extrusion print. Users can easily create a two-color prints by choosing a variety of “ooze shield” shapes to envelop their part during construction and provide high definition between colors. The six infill pattern options offered by Simplify3D 3.0 allow users to build up the interior of their part however they choose, including the popular triangle infill and honeycomb patterns. The software also allows for parts to be stronger and aesthetically well constructed. This software’s slicer is three times faster and uses cutting edge algorithms to speed things up, while maintaining the integrity of the part.
Simplify3D CEO Clayton Webster says,“Version 3.0 blurs the boundaries between the output of desktop and industrial 3D printers. Our users constantly astound us with what they are able to create, and we’re committed to providing the tools they need to bring their ideas to life. Their work inspires everything we do.” Webster adds, “faster slicing helps with complex models and multi-part jobs, but it also allows for faster iteration. Combined with our realistic animated Preview Mode, this allows our users to make small settings changes and instantly see how they will affect the final print.”
Learning from the original software’s interface, Simplify3D has made some changes that make the new 3.0 software easier to use and more intuitive for users. New grouping options make it very simple to work with multiple parts and model manipulation is even simpler than before. A new keyboard shortcuts option improves navigation and an “undo” button saves a lot of frustration in the design and printer prep process. Also, multiple coloring options have been added to the Preview Mode, allowing users to better visualize their built sequences by feature type, active toolhead, and by speed.
Additional Features:
- Improved print quality. Features such as “Avoid Crossing Outlines” help reduce oozing, while “Non-Stationary Retractions” reduces defects (a.k.a. “zits”) on the outer surface of the printed model. These fine-tuning controls truly make the difference between a good print and a great print.
- Smarter printer profile system. Everyone modifies their print settings to achieve just the right balance for their printer, but now Simplify3D allows you to save your unique printer settings. Users can create a brand new printer profile system that streamlines the process of adding and saving profiles. Users with multiple 3D printers will find this feature particularly useful. Also, an instantly updated cloud based storage system communicates with a desktop software assuring that all profiles are up-to-date.
- Support for 25 new printers. In addition to the 100 3D printers Simplify3D already supports, they’ve added 25 new ones, including: Bonsai Lab’s BS01, bq’s Prusa i3 Hephestos and Witbox, the DeltaMaker 3D Printer, the FusionTech ideaPrinter F100, the gCreate gMax 1.5 XT, German RepRap’s PRotos V3 and X350, the LulzBot Mini and TAZ 5, the Malyan M180, the Mankati Fullscale XT, the MendelMax 3.0, the Printrbot Plus Single and Dual, the Rostock MAX v2, the Sharebot Kiwi-3D, Dual, and XXL, the Solidoodle 4, Press, and Workbench, the Tumaker Voladora, and the Ultimaker 2 Go and Extended.
Webster is excited about the new release, saying, “We’re fortunate to have passionate users who provided many ideas that have been incorporated into the new release. Their feedback is invaluable to our development process, and we can’t wait to see what they will accomplish with these exciting new tools.”
All existing Simplify3D customers can upgrade to the 3.0 version for free. To learn more about Simplify3D 3.0 visit the software page here or check out the company’s blogpost on the topic. Other resources that may be helpful are: the Version 3.0 FAQ , a list of all of the changes made in the software, and updated tutorials made for the new software.
