DesignSpark Mechanical gets 3D print slicing in v4 upgraded

The slicing software – used to prepare files for layer-based 3D printing – is Ultimaker’s popular ‘Cura’, which is open-source. “This feature is the result of collaboration between RS and Ultimaker, one of the biggest 3D printing companies in the world,” said RS. “The feature enables users to optimise their designs using tested profiles for 3D printers and materials.”

The blend (or loft) tool that enables creation of rotational, periodic or sheet metal blends.

On top of this, auto-save has been added, errors in solid body geometry can be analysed and fixed, and there are enhancements to existing tools.

There is support for 4K and ultra-HD monitors, and switching between multiple graphics-rendering drivers and modes.

3D geometry can now be exported into the DreamWorks open-source OpenVDB file format.

Czech, Dutch, Finnish, Hungarian, Korean, Malay, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish, Thai and Turkish language options are now available.

“This version of DesignSpark Mechanical raises the bar for free and low-cost 3D CAD modelling tools in terms of usability and performance,” claimed RS v-p Mike Bray. “Our software is absolutely free for use – not just for our customers, but for everyone. Our fundamental aim is to reduce barriers for engineers, removing prohibitive costs that can often stop many of the best ideas from becoming reality.”

RS aims DesignSpark Mechanical at mechanical and electronic engineers working in companies of any size, as well a students and professional designers.

Version 4.0 is the first update for three years, of the tool originally developed with SpaceClaim.

Download DesignSpark Mechanical here.