AdditiveM PBF [FDM & Standard Version] - User Manual

Welcome to the User Manual for AdditiveM PBF. This manual provides comprehensive guidance on how to effectively use the software for thermomechanical process modeling of powder bed fusion metal additive manufacturing.

Table of Contents

Introduction

AdditiveM PBF is comprehensive software designed to model the powder bed fusion (PBF) metal additive manufacturing process. This FDM and standard version includes capabilities for finite difference numerical method (FDM) and standard thermomechanical simulations at both large and microscale scales.

Key Features

  • Robust FDM simulations
  • Thermomechanical simulation at large and microscale
  • Elastoplastic Simulation considering linear strain hardening
  • Options for heat input
  • Live stream simulation
  • User-friendly interface
  • Comprehensive data export options and results post-processing

System Requirements

  • Operating System: Windows 10 or later
  • Processor: Intel i5 or higher
  • Memory: 32 GB RAM minimum (Recommended: 64 GB RAM)

Installation

Pre-Installation Checklist
  • Verify system requirements.
  • Ensure you have administrative rights on your computer.
  • (if needed) Disable antivirus software temporarily during installation.
Installation Steps
  1. Make sure that you are connected to the internet.
  2. Install the license [instruction will be provided by email].
  3. Locate the downloaded installer file.
  4. Double-click the installer to begin the installation process.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  6. Once the installation is complete, launch AdditiveM PBF from the desktop shortcut or Start menu.

Activation

Activating AdditiveM
  1. Upon first launch, you will be prompted to activate your software.
  2. Enter the license key provided during purchase.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the activation process.
Troubleshooting Activation Issues
  • Ensure you are connected to the internet.
  • Verify that your license key is correct.
  • Contact technical support if you encounter persistent issues (support@manufacture.technology).

Software Features

Process Modeling

AdditiveM PBF offers robust process modeling capabilities for powder bed fusion metal additive manufacturing. This includes:

  • Thermomechanical Simulation: Analyze thermal and mechanical behavior during the printing process.
  • Micro and Macro Scale Modeling: Simulate both microscale and macroscale features to ensure detailed analysis.
Live Stream Simulation

Live stream simulation in AdditiveM PBF allows real-time monitoring and analysis of the additive manufacturing process. Key features include:

  • Real-Time Data Visualization: Monitor temperature distribution, stress, and displacement as the printing process unfolds.
  • Dynamic Parameter Adjustment: Adjust print parameters on the fly to optimize the process and mitigate defects.
  • Interactive Interface: Engage with the simulation through an intuitive interface, enabling quick decisions and adjustments.

Using AdditiveM

Importing Data

To begin using AdditiveM PBF, the first step is to create a new project or open a project. The software supports its project format.

  1. Open a project: Navigate to the 'File' menu and select 'Open' to browse and import your project.
Running Simulations
  1. Select Simulation Scale: Choose between microscale and macroscale simulations depending on the level of detail required.
  2. Simulation Setup: Configure your simulation parameters, including thermomechanical properties, mesh sizes, and boundary conditions.
  3. STL File Import (only macroscale): For 3D models, use the 'STL File' tab to import and configure your 3D design files for simulation.
  4. Start Simulation: Click the 'Run' button to initiate the simulation. The software will process the data and simulate the additive manufacturing process based on the configured parameters.
Analyzing Results
  1. Visualization Tools: Use the built-in visualization tools to view temperature distribution, stress, displacement, and other critical parameters.
  2. Post-Processing Options: Access post-processing options to refine and analyze the results further, such as viewing specific layers or regions of the model.
  3. Graphical Analysis: Generate graphs and charts to visualize trends and specific data points over time, aiding in a deeper understanding of the simulation outcomes.
Exporting Data
  1. Export/Save Data Options: Go to the 'File' menu and select 'Export' to choose the format in which you want to save your data.
  2. Data Formats: The software supports various export formats, including Text, Excel, and image.

Advanced Features

AdditiveM PBF offers a range of advanced features that allow users to customize simulations to meet specific research and development needs. These features provide greater control over the simulation parameters and enable detailed analysis of the additive manufacturing process.

  • Adjusting Mesh Parameters: Customize the mesh size and configuration for both microscale and macroscale simulations to improve accuracy and computational efficiency.
  • Defining Material Properties: Input and modify the physical and mechanical properties of the materials used in the simulation.
  • Configuring Heat Source: Customize the heat source parameters to simulate various additive manufacturing techniques accurately.
  • Setting Boundary Conditions: Define the boundary conditions to simulate real-world manufacturing environments.
  • Applying Custom Print Patterns: Customize the print pattern for each layer to optimize the additive manufacturing process.
  • Live Stream Simulation: Utilize the live stream simulation feature to monitor the simulation process in real-time.
  • Multi-Layer Analysis: Perform detailed multi-layer simulation analysis to understand each layer's cumulative effects on the overall structure.

Getting Started

User Interface Overview

To begin your first project in AdditiveM PBF, you need to decide on the simulation scale—either microscale or macroscale. The microscale interface is tailored for detailed, small-scale simulations, while the macroscale interface is used for larger-scale, more comprehensive simulations. Below are the starting interfaces for both scales:

Microscale Interface

In the microscale interface, you can define the simulation domain dimensions, set the layer number, and create the meshed domain for thermomechanical simulations. This scale is ideal for high-resolution simulations focusing on smaller, intricate details.

Macroscale Interface

The macroscale interface allows you to import STL files, set up the base plate, and define supports. This scale is suitable for larger, more generalized simulations where overall structural integrity is the focus.

Understanding the AdditiveM PBF Interface

The AdditiveM PBF interface is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, enabling efficient navigation through various features and tools. Below is an overview of the interface's key components:

  • Toolbar: Provides quick access to essential functions and features.
  • Tabs: Allow you to switch between different stages of your project setup and analysis.
  • Project Info and 3D Model Panels: Display information about your current project and provide a workspace to manipulate your 3D model.
  • Sidebar (Right Panel): Provides detailed settings and options based on the selected simulation scale.
  • Navigation Controls: Allow you to move, rotate, and scale the model.

Maintenance and Updates

Updating AdditiveM

Keeping your AdditiveM software up to date is crucial for ensuring you have access to the latest features, improvements, and security patches. Here's how to update AdditiveM:

  1. Check for Updates: Regularly check the official AdditiveM website or use the in-software update checker under the 'Help' menu to see if a new version is available.
  2. Download the Update: If an update is available, download it from the official website or through the software’s update feature.
  3. Install the Update: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update. Ensure that all running instances of AdditiveM are closed before starting the update process to prevent any conflicts.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues while using AdditiveM, here are some common problems and their solutions:

  • Software Crashes: Ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for running AdditiveM. Update your graphics drivers and operating system to the latest versions.
  • Slow Performance: Optimize your simulation settings by reducing mesh size or limiting the number of layers. Ensure that your computer has adequate RAM and processing power.
  • License Issues: Verify that your license is active and not expired. If you encounter problems, contact the support team for assistance.
  • Missing Features: Ensure that you are using the latest version of AdditiveM. Some features may be specific to certain versions, so updating the software might resolve the issue.

Support

If you need further assistance, our technical support is here to help. Here’s how to contact us:

  • Email Support: Send an email to support@manufacture.technology with a detailed description of your issue. Include any relevant screenshots or error messages to help us understand your problem better.
  • Online Resources: Visit the AdditiveM support page on our website for FAQs, tutorials, and user guides that might help resolve your issue.

For any other inquiries or feedback, feel free to reach out to us. We are committed to providing the best support to ensure your success with AdditiveM.

Appendices

Glossary of Terms
  • Additive Manufacturing (AM): A process of joining materials to make objects from 3D model data, usually layer upon layer.
  • Finite Difference Method (FDM): A numerical method used to solve differential equations by approximating them with difference equations.
  • Macroscale: Refers to the large-scale structure of a material or system, as opposed to microscale.
  • Microscale: Refers to the small-scale structure of a material, often at the level of micrometers.
  • Mesh: A network of nodes and elements used in simulations to represent a physical domain.
Licensing Agreement

This section outlines the terms and conditions under which you can use AdditiveM. By installing and using the software, you agree to the following:

  • License Grant: MTP grants you a non-exclusive, non-transferable license to use AdditiveM on a single computer.
  • Restrictions: You may not reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble the software. You may not rent, lease, or lend the software.
  • Termination: This license is effective until terminated. You may terminate it by destroying all copies of the software. MTP may terminate it if you fail to comply with any terms or conditions of this agreement.

For the full licensing agreement, please refer to the Licensing Agreement Document.

License Pricing and Plans

Unlock the full potential of AdditiveM PBF Software with our flexible licensing options:

  • Student Licenses:
    • Monthly License: $19.19
    • Six-Month License: $109.99
    • Annual License: $199.99
  • Professional Licenses:
    • Monthly License: $69.19
    • Six-Month License: $379.99
    • Annual License: $699.99

Visit our website at AdditiveM PBF [FDM & Standard Version] to learn more about each plan and find the one that best suits your needs.