Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
ReplicatorG, now provide tools that allow
easy scaling, repositioning, and duplicating
of CAD models before slicing. These usually
include a virtual environment that shows
how everything will fit into the printer's build
chamber.
The slicing program will provide an interface
to adjust a number of variables related to
print speed and quality, such as layer height,
maximum print-head speed, infill density,
number of “shells” surrounding the infill in
each layer, and whether or not to print sup-
port structures or “rafts.” Many slicing
engines have built-in profiles to get you
started, and most work well right out of the
box. Eventually, you'll probably want to ex-
periment with these settings to suit specific
geometry or design challenges.
A handy practice when getting familiar with
slicer settings is to use a
G-code visualizer
to
preview the print. A visualizer will display the
G-code commands as a series of lines to rep-
resent the print-head toolpaths. Scrolling
through the layers can help you learn how
the slicing software tackles the geometry of
the original object, and will reveal errors
without using up any plastic. Saving a series
of G-code “drafts” of a figure before actually
running a print job is a great way to gauge
the effect of adjustments to the various slicer
settings. If you're using ReplicatorG, grab
Pleasant 3D (for Mac, shown in
Figure 3-6
) or
GCode Viewer for Blender (cross-platform).
Both Pronterface and Repetier-Host have
built-in G-code viewing utilities.
Figure 3-6.
Visualizing G-code in Pleasant3D. The
interface allows you to scroll through the toolpaths
one layer at a time.
Printer Control/Client
Software
Finally, there's the
client
, which is basically
the printer's real-time control panel. It pro-
vides a software interface where you can
start, stop, or pause the printing process at
will, as well as set the temperature of the ex-
truder nozzle and the bed heater, if present.
The client will usually provide a set of direc-
tional buttons that allow you to incremen-
tally move the print head in any direction,
which can be useful for bed leveling, calibra-
tion, and manual zeroing.
Historically, many machines relied on Repli-
catorG for machine control. Recently,
though, some alternatives have appeared,
and the amount of innovation is impressive.
The Printrun suite (featuring Pronterface)
and Repetier-Host are the most actively de-
veloped and used. Ultimaker has been de-
veloping the open source Cura package
which is feature-packed and easy to use.
Some closed-source printers, such as
PP3DP's Up and MakerBot, ship with custom
client software that will usually include a
similar set of features.
In use, the essential function of the client is
to send toolpath instructions to the printer
