Simplify3D replaces the Repetier-Host and Slic3r packages and allows importing of different files, scaling a model up or down, repairing the model code, creating Gcode and, of course, starting 3D printing. Introduced by German RepRap, this Simplify3D enables printers, such as the low-cost 3D printer NEO, to achieve printing results comparable to more expensive 3D printers.

The software, especially the slicing function, has a big influence on the print quality. Simplify3D incorporates fast slicing algorithms that quickly create clean Gcodes, even of  the most complex models. The animated print previewer shows how the model would be printed layer by layer. This allows fixing or improving the model before starting the actual print. The software also supports dual extruders and multi model printing. The latter option allows the placement of a number of models simultaneously on the print bed, each with its own set of print parameters. The user has complete control where and how much support material is used. This reduces the print time and material used. Parameters can even be changed within a model allowing to change the fill density to make some parts stronger. Moreover, the layer height can be varied within the model and the print speed and temperature is adjustable.

Engineers at German RepRap printed two test bunnies on the NEO, one using Repetier-Host and Slic3r, the other with Simplify3D (see photo). The ears of the bunny turned out more ragged using the Slic3r software. The Simplify3D version looks a lot cleaner overall.

Software profiles are available for the German RepRap 3D printers X400, PRotos V2 and the NEO for download.

The software supports STL- and OBJ-files and is available for Windows, MAC and Linux.

German RepRap
www.germanreprap.com