My Wishlist Dozen

[rdupre]

I've been using Simplify3d for 3/4 months now and still learning it. I have compiled my top requested features. If any of these are already in the software, please let me know.

Thanks,
Ron Dupre

1. Allow G-Code entered under the Communications Tab to be lower case as well as upper case. Or give the option as in MatterControl should G-Code require use of lower case in the future.
○ Although G-Code is specified to be in Upper Case, many techinical individuals enter data in lower case as habit
○ Passing G-Code commands to the machine should be a minor change. Just use a .ToUpper method or some similar function when grabbing data from the input box.

2. Put a input box to send commands from the Jog Controls Tab. Having it only on the Communication Tab disrupts workflow. Since Jog Control tab is where you have direct control of the machine, it makes sense to be able to type in G-Code commands there.

3. Create audible notifications for selected events (Temp reached, Print Stop, Alarm for error etc.) for Marlin firmware ala Repetier Host.

4. Put in a G-Code editor.
○ Access it through the preview mode.
○ Allow for tweaking of G-code
○ Update preview with any G-code changes

5. Put in a priming line option.
○ Often the hot end will ooze filament when moving to home before printing; empting the nozzle and then will take several seconds to start extruding during the print.
○ When using a raft or brim, this isn't an issue, but printing with neither of these is.

6. Create a reference manual. The community and videos are good, but not the complete solution for a paid, professional application. The manual should include:
○ A description of workflow
○ Definition of all commands and options
○ A description of when and how to use each command and option
○ Strategies for successful printing (i.e. large flat surfaces, support usage, long prints, etc.)
○ Info on how one command or option relate to others

7. Include the ability to view and change Arduino firmware settings like in Repetier Host.
○ It would be handy for those who do not have an LCD on their printer
○ This allows one to try out different settings, then when everything is to satisfaction, the changes could be uploaded via Arduino IDE one time.

8. Provide a more accurate print time estimate.
○ Include factors like extraction time, retraction vertical lift, etc.
○ Keep track of heating times to add to time estimate.

9. Add an option to optimally place an object on the build plate.
○ Sometimes models come in at an awkward angle and must be flattened onto the build plate using the Place Surface on Bed option
○ Adding an option to drop the object according to various conditions
§ Largest flat side
§ Least amount of support
§ Orientation for strength
§ Other options not listed above

10. Add a quick bed leveling print
○ This would be a bed sized outline about 3-5 layers
○ Having a Simplif3D standard print would increase reliability and consistency

11. Add option to print lily pads or mouse ears, configurable for size similar to the manual placement of support structures
○ This will allow placement of additional structures to help prevent lifting with hard to print filaments

12. Add the ability to filter out M105 temperature commands and messages from the Communications window. Also add the ability to clear and/or pause the Communications window if desired.
○ The constant refresh of the temperature notifications makes it difficult to see other commands sent to the printer.
○ The Verbose box is a good start, but there is no documentation that tells which commands and notifications are filtered. It looks like M303 shows up when the verbose box is unchecked and the M205 command does not.
○ The ability to clear and pause the Communications window is handy when setting up or trouble shooting the printer

[OzStevens]

So as not to repeat what others have written, I'll just say: I do wish there was a way to adjust retraction while printing the part, from the "Machine Control Panel".

Just like jogging the print head to adjust for height changes while printing, to be able to adjust the filament retraction during the printing would help with strings etc, then the person can make note of what works and refine the "pre-printing" setup.

Please, please, please.


Ozzy

[JohnOCFII]

I've been using Simplify3d for 3/4 months now and still learning it. I have compiled my top requested features. If any of these are already in the software, please let me know.

Thanks,
Ron Dupre

1. Allow G-Code entered under the Communications Tab to be lower case as well as upper case. Or give the option as in MatterControl should G-Code require use of lower case in the future.
○ Although G-Code is specified to be in Upper Case, many techinical individuals enter data in lower case as habit
○ Passing G-Code commands to the machine should be a minor change. Just use a .ToUpper method or some similar function when grabbing data from the input box.

2. Put a input box to send commands from the Jog Controls Tab. Having it only on the Communication Tab disrupts workflow. Since Jog Control tab is where you have direct control of the machine, it makes sense to be able to type in G-Code commands there.

3. Create audible notifications for selected events (Temp reached, Print Stop, Alarm for error etc.) for Marlin firmware ala Repetier Host.

12. Add the ability to filter out M105 temperature commands and messages from the Communications window. Also add the ability to clear and/or pause the Communications window if desired.
○ The constant refresh of the temperature notifications makes it difficult to see other commands sent to the printer.
○ The Verbose box is a good start, but there is no documentation that tells which commands and notifications are filtered. It looks like M303 shows up when the verbose box is unchecked and the M205 command does not.
○ The ability to clear and pause the Communications window is handy when setting up or trouble shooting the printer

A very good list -- I especially echo requests: 1, 2, 3, and 12.

[dkightley]

Some of your ideas have already been requested on individual threads. Why not add your weight to those requests by adding your comments to the individual threads rather than hiding them in a "bucket" thread that may end up being overlooked.