3DPrinterOS is a cloud-based operating system developed to reduce many of the hassles associated with consumer-based 3D printing, particularly the hassle of interoperability among various 3D printers. As a single platform, 3DPrinterOS software will enable users to not only 3D print from virtually anywhere but it also provides a means by which the maker community can collaborate with each other on multiple 3D designs. Because the platform is cloud-based, anyone with a 3D printer can connect it to the 3DPrinterOS platform from any Web-enabled device, anywhere in the world.

This is an interesting concept. For the moment, the developers of 3DPrinterOS are focused on desktop 3D printers. But you never know, some of the larger additive manufacturing vendors may introduce something like this in the future.

The news for 3DPrinterOS is that the company has an agreement with Rapide 3D, an Australian owned 3D printer manufacturer based in Shenzhen, China, to bundle its operating system with Rapid 3D’s entire suite of printers. Starting with the Rapide 200 and 200 XL, Rapide owners will have access out the box to all the features of 3DPrinterOS. Rapide users will be able to connect their printers to the cloud through Windows, Mac, Ubuntu or Raspberry Pi.

Since opening to the general public in mid-March, 3DPrinterOS has seen over 4000 hours of printing across 1200+ printers in 68 different countries and 517 cities. 3DPrinterOS’ operating system opens up new possibilities with their app engine, which powers features such as “Magic Fix” that can analyze, repair and orientate files for printing on specific machines, reducing the chances of failure and wasted material for new users.

Users will be able to manage, edit, fix, slice, share and print objects through a phone, tablet, computer or any other smart device. Connecting Rapide printers to the cloud also gives remote control and live viewing of printers from anywhere there’s an Internet connection available. Rapide owners will get expanded access to cloud storage for their files, walkthrough videos, customer support and other materials to help get more out of their printers.

Leslie Langnau
llangnau@wtwhmedia.com