Start Points..seam hiding?

[gatorNic]

Does Simplify3d have a Start Point setting like slic3r's "Nearest"?

Start Points is the same as Seam Position in slic3r. One of the seam position settings is called "Nearest", here is a description:

Nearest - This will try to choose a concave non-overhang vertex so that the seam is hidden in the inside of the concave angle. If no concave non-overhang vertices are available, it will choose a convex non-overhang vertex. If none are available, it will choose a non-overhang vertex. The choice among the candidates is operated so that the start point is the nearest to the previous extruder position. So this option will optimize for short travels.

The thing that intrigues me is the finding a concave area, since that would more effectively hide the retraction point. I see options for Simplify3d are 1. Use random star points for all perimeters, 2. Optimize start points for fastest printing speed, 3. Choose start point closest to location.

So those descriptions lead me to believe its not trying to hide anything by 1.just randomly placing around the surface, 2.placing based on speed, or 3.directing the seam all to one side.

thanks

[DarthRevan]

It seems as though you have a sound grasp of what the settings in Simplify3D do, in regards to positioning the seam. If you would like more information, I often find KeyboardWarrior's tip of day posts extremely helpful with understanding the settings. viewtopic.php?f=8&t=1941

[gatorNic]

Thanks for the link! I have used them to try different seam positions. I think I was just wondering how 'smart' the position of the random ones were. If it was taking into account concavity or if it truly was just placing them random or just for speed.

Because if not I think an algorithm to try and hide seams in concavity would be a good feature request.

[Rockscout]

Regarding "Choose Start point closest to specific location X:0 Y:0" setting. I've noticed this:
As your part builds up it chooses the start location closest to X:0 Y:0 Z:0, instead of X:0 Y:0 Z:current layer height.
In other words the start point is determined relative to a spot down on the build plate. This has the effect of making a curved seam line on most parts.
It would be easier for me to hide the seam line on my parts if that setting referenced the Z axis, instead of Z:0.
Is there any way around this? I'm 3D printing for profit, and a solution to this issue would be worth a lot to me. I'll give $100 to anyone with a solution that works inside simplify3D.

[CompoundCarl]

I did a few tests, and I don't think that's how it works at all. I think it is actually comparing to "X:0 Y:0 Z:current layer height" as you said, but you have to keep in mind that your model is made up of triangles. These triangles frequently create edges of your model that are not perfectly vertical, but instead have slight angles to them. If you enable the wireframe view in S3D, you'll see what I mean. So from my tests, the start point position is always closest to "X:0 Y:0 Z:current layer height", except it has to choose a position aligned with the edges of the triangles that make up your model. If those edges aren't vertical, it may give the perception that the seam line is curved or leaning. It all has to do with the edges of your model that are created by the STL triangles.

[Rockscout]

That would explain the seam's affinity for edges that I've noticed. I guess I should incorporate a seam slot into my designs, if I want it in an exact place. Thanks for your observation.