DESKTOP METAL launched an analytical software platform for 3D-printed parts. The Live Inspect program, part of the Live Suite software portfolio, allows manufacturers to analyze features on a 3D scan — e.g., holes, slots, and planar surfaces — and provides tolerance analysis according to standard geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) norms and practices. Live Inspect then automatically applies feature-level scan adjustments that correct for deviations identified by the tolerance-based scan analysis.
Many users of additive technologies use 3D scanners to verify part tolerances. While some tools may provide analysis of these scans, Live Inspect both analyzes and corrects for 3D printing variations. “Our team developed Live Inspect with the goal of delivering 3D printed results as true to CAD designs as possible,” stated Desktop Metal CEO Ric Fulop. “This solution can affect how compensation is applied to 3D scans through user-identified datums that allows them to fine tune prints and hit higher tolerances in production.”
Desktop Metal develops and supplies 3D printers for mass production, along with materials and software for additive manufacturing metal parts, polymers, and ceramics.
For users of Team DM binder jetting platforms, Live Inspect enhances the capabilities of Live Sinter, Desktop Metal’s revolutionary sintering simulation and compensation software. Live Inspect is not just a solution for powder metal shrinkage and distortion due to density variations, gravity, and friction during sintering; it can aid in the manufacturing of polymer parts that experience warping due to curing and thermal effects; or sandcasting cores swelling due to microwave curing. The software will be available as an added feature bundled with Live Sinter for metal binder jetting operators as well as a stand-alone option for users of other platforms and additive technologies.
Learn more at TeamDM.com/LiveInspect