Feature Title:
• BuildOptimizer
• Automated Multi-Part Packing Based on Quantity, Orientation, and Volume Constraints selected by user. Codename: Velvety Okapi
Feature Description:
I’d like to request a feature for PreForm that automates the process of populating the build chamber with multiple models based on user-defined quantity targets, orientation constraints, and packing density or total volume goals.
Currently, this is a manual, time-intensive task—especially when managing several parts with different orientations and print quantities. This feature would dramatically streamline production workflows by enabling PreForm to handle the optimization automatically.
Proposed Functionality:
A new tool or interface within PreForm where the user can:
• Upload multiple part files
• Input desired print quantity per model
• Lock required orientations (optional per part)
• Set a target packing density and/or maximum build volume
Then, PreForm would:
• Automatically calculate how many units of each model to include in the build
• Select orientations (if not locked)
• Optimize spacing and arrangement
• Populate the build chamber with the most efficient combination possible based on the constraints.
Example Use Case:
• Part A: 100 units needed, must be face-down
• Part B: 50 units, any orientation
• Part C: 600 units, orientation locked
• Part D: 40 units, any orientation
• Target: 30% packing density, max 6L build volume
Example Use Case:
• Part A: 100 units needed, must be face-down
• Part B: 50 units, any orientation
• Part C: 600 units, orientation locked
• Part D: 40 units, any orientation
• Target: 30% packing density, max 6L build volume
PreForm would analyze the input and automatically determine the best number of each model to include—e.g., 10 of A, 20 of B, 100 of C, 8 of D—balancing part count, orientation rules, and volume efficiency without manual guesswork.
Expected Benefits:
• Significantly faster setup time for multi-part builds
• Improved material utilization and throughput
• Ideal for service providers handling high-mix, mid-volume SLS jobs
• Makes PreForm more powerful and competitive for production workflows
Priority Level:
High (would be used regularly in daily operations) for a service bureau style business handling many different clients orders/jobs per day.
Thank you for making an already great product, with a great user experience, and any consideration to add this feature or something like it.