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Predict Before You Print

Know how your FDM parts will perform before you print.

NoviPath uses GrabCAD Print Pro toolpath data to predict load capacity and identify potential failure locations before committing to a build.

Explore NoviPath for Your FDM Applications

Request trial access or pricing information and learn more about using toolpath-aware simulation in your additive manufacturing workflow.

See NoviPath Predictions Put to the Test

How closely can simulation predict the performance of an FDM part? Watch real parts undergo destructive load testing and compare the results with NoviPath predictions for load capacity and failure location.
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Why Toolpath-Aware Simulation Matters

FDM parts are built layer by layer, creating directional behavior that generic simulation may not fully capture. NoviPath uses toolpath information from GrabCAD Print Pro to account for how the part is manufactured.
 
  • Predict load capacity: Evaluate expected part performance under defined loading conditions before printing.
  • Identify potential failure locations: See where a part is predicted to fail before moving to physical validation.
  • Simulate using actual print data: Use GrabCAD Print Pro toolpath information rather than relying solely on idealized part geometry.

Predicted in Simulation. Validated Through Physical Testing

Two documented case studies:

Load Case 1: 700 kg Target

  • An optimized part successfully supported the 700 kg target load. NoviPath simulation predicted an 856 kg capacity and the location where the part would ultimately fail. 

Load Case 2: 300 kg Target

  • In the second load case, the part was tested at 200 kg and 280 kg before failing at 300 kg, compared with NoviPath's 285 kg prediction.

Failure Location Validation

  • Physical testing also demonstrated NoviPath's ability to predict where the printed part would fail, providing validation beyond load capacity alone.
The 3D printed part on the left versus the design in GrabCAD Print Pro on the right.

From Print Preparation to Performance Prediction

Connect print preparation with toolpath-aware simulation to evaluate FDM part performance before printing.

 

 

Screenshot of Step 1 in the NoviPath workflow.

Step 1: Prepare

Prepare the part and generate the print toolpath in GrabCAD Print Pro.

Screenshot of Step 2 in the NoviPath workflow.

Step 2: Simulate

Use NoviPath to perform toolpath-aware FDM analysis.

Screenshot of Step 3 in the NoviPath workflow.

Step 3: Evaluate

Review predicted part performance and failure behavior before printing.

Screenshot of Step 1 in the NoviPath workflow.

Prepare the part and generate the print toolpath in GrabCAD Print Pro.

Screenshot of Step 2 in the NoviPath workflow.

Use NoviPath to perform toolpath-aware FDM analysis.

Screenshot of Step 3 in the NoviPath workflow.

Review predicted part performance and failure behavior before printing.