There’s a new and quite beautiful rendering system for GCODE visualization.
When you prepare a 3D print in slicing software, there’s usually a 3D viewable preview. It’s quite important to review the preview, because it can often show flaws in the job — does the first layer actually touch all of the plate? Did you really want that brim? Oops, someone left “Fuzzy Skin” enabled.
Many slicers offer a slider to move up and down in the preview as a cross-section to provide more visual cues, and there’s often a “play” button. The play button runs a simulation of the print, layer by layer. However, I find these often too slow and not particularly useful.
Now there may be a solution: Create Inc has developed a Blender add-on to perform amazingly beautiful simulations of GCODE execution. The add-on is called “Stich3R”, a “GCODE Renderer”. They explain:
“This Blender Addon Takes PrusaSlicer or OrcaSlicer GCODE, processes it and converts it into a renderable 3D model. It takes into account various heights and widths of the GCODE and delivers a very realistic looking model.”
The add-on leverages the free and open source Blender 3D modeling tool’s rendering capabilities to produce a video of the print taking place. While simulated, it appears quite realistic.
The simulation can highlight (or not) a series of structural features, such as infill, top surfaces, overhangs, etc. It’s your choice when generating the simulation.
Stich3R also includes multimaterial support, meaning the simulation will actually show the differently colored sections of the print correctly.
Blender is, of course, free for download, and many 3D printer operators use it for developing 3D models. The add-on is priced at US$25 one-time charge, and is available for purchase at the Blender Market.
Via Blender Market
