CoreTechnologie releases open 4D_Additive v.1.3 software
May 4, 2021
Software manufacturer CoreTechnologie, headquartered in Mömbris, Germany, is set to launch its updated 4D_Additive v.1.3 software in early May 2021. The Additive Manufacturing tool, equipped with a number of new functions, is specifically dedicated to the current processes and higher requirements of small-batch production of additively manufactured parts.
For the first time, the software provides an application programming interface (API) for Hewlett Packard and Photocentric machines, enabling the process of sending the slicing data generated on the computer directly to the machines to take place in shorter times. Another addition is the revised texture module, which can be used to quickly and easily enhance the surfaces of CAD models, as well as STL bodies, with various surface textures. In addition to the option of applying your own designs, such as logos and QR codes, there are over 5,000 predefined patterns to choose from.
For Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) machines, the ‘nesting’ functions have been improved to enable fast, thermally-optimised filling of the build space. The new version uses AI algorithms to selectively fill free areas in the build space and ensure constant slice areas of individual layers. The improved calculation speed results from the use of all available processors of the computer. It is possible to prepare the nesting of parts manually and optionally define the degrees of freedom around X, Y and Z individually for each part.
The new position correction for SLS and SLM parts serves to avoid surface defects caused by zig-zag movements of the laser on the bottom and top slice layer of the parts. For manual positioning, the new software version offers an intelligent Powercopy function using a voxel representation of the models for high packing density.
An automatic repair function for scan data delivers closed and homogeneous STL models in the shortest possible time. The functions for cutting CAD and STL models have also been extensively revised, with various joining patterns such as pins or grooves now also available.
The software reads all CAD formats, as well as tessellated formats such as Catia, Nx, Solidworks, Creo, Step as well as STL, 3mf and Amf. Dimensions, tolerances and views, and all attributes and design elements from the CAD data are also displayed. By this means, all relevant information is available for the manufacturing process. The results of the preparation process can be saved as STL, 3mf, Amf, or exact Step models. After the multiprocessor based slicing – Sli, Slm and Slc formats, jpg and png bitmaps, or Svg vector graphics – can be saved.
The software follows the philosophy of a standardised, open system and, thus, is able to offer a solution for a multitude of processes with possibilities for customisation.
