Detection and Variable support density

[serpentineocean]

I deal with a lot of larger flat surfaces that need a fairly dense support to create a half decent top surface (generally don't use infill for strength, just top surface support). And currently I do my best to split model processes up solely on the need for top support infill. So a dynamically adjusting infill (and even support) option would be a leap forward.

Also, for non mechanical models, there should also be an automatic detection and support structure option for inside the model, like there is for outside (detect x overhang angle, and print support only for that spot)?

So, Say you have 4"x4" flat surface at the top of your model... By default you have to set a good infill on a single process to cover the entire top surface of that model, say Wiggle at 30%... This gives you a print time of 5 hours. Currently, I break up my model into different processes so at the bottom, i use a 10%, then near the top i switch to a 20% for a few layers, then a 30% a few layers before the top. This cuts down on my print time pretty well, maybe down to 3 hours, or 2.5 And I think this is something that could be automated inside S3D for both internal structures and external support.

And then to REALLY cut down on time and materials, maybe it would be possible to use a diagonal-overhanging support structure (at a variable rate, but lets say 40 degrees), you can cone that 4"x4" complete support down to the bottom at to maybe a few mm, using different process further down as in the previous example to lower the print time to less than 2 hours. Maybe you can even have multiple bases? (this is kind of similar to how others do the tree/root supports)