Stratasys has partnered with generative design and simulation company Novineer to integrate its NoviPath solution into GrabCAD Print Pro.
The integration, Stratasys says, will enable a faster, more cost-effective way to design lighter, stronger parts with predictable performance. It should also reduce the need for physical testing for safety-critical, load-bearing applications.
Novineer’s technology will use GrabCAD toolpath data to simulate part behaviour in real-world applications. By accounting for build orientation, layer direction, infill patterns and material-specific properties, early customers have reported weight reductions of up to 35% on load-bearing parts.
Traditional finite element analysis tools treat 3D printed parts as uniform pieces, ignoring the layer-by-layer nature of material extrusion. This can make it more difficult for engineers to accurately predict how extruded parts will perform in real-world applications. Now, Stratasys and Novineer say users can expect accurate predictions of stiffness, strength, and failure behaviour.
NoviPath works with GrabCAD Print Pro, allowing users to launch simulations using the same toolpath data that will be used to print FDM parts. Engineers can define application-specific load cases and safety factors, identify likely failure locations, and iterate virtually until they meet performance requirements – all while staying within the Stratasys software environment. Initial support is expected for Stratasys FDM systems, including the F3300, F900, and Fortus 450mc, with a roadmap for additional platform expansion. The integration will offer a pre-validated material library, starting with Antero 800NA, FDM Nylon 12CF and ULTEM 9085 filament, with ongoing additions planned.
"Partnering with Stratasys embeds NoviPath’s toolpath-aware part simulation into GrabCAD Print Pro, bridging the gap between design intent and real-world part performance,” said Ali Tamijani, Ph.D., CEO and Co-Founder, Novineer, Inc. “Stratasys users can now predict stiffness, strength, and failure before they hit ‘print,’ cutting trial-and-error, time, and cost while qualifying more FDM™ parts. As the first OEM to launch this unique solution, Stratasys is redefining what material extrusion can deliver in a production setting.”
“Engineers often over-design FDM parts or rely on trial-and-error testing because they don’t have an easy and accessible simulation solution to predict part performance,” added Victor Gerdes, Vice President, Software, Stratasys. “Integrating Novineer’s simulation with GrabCAD Print Pro lets engineers predict how FDM parts will behave before printing the parts, saving time and costs. It’s a complete, validated workflow for polymer extrusion that no other 3D printer manufacturer offers today.”
FDM Performance Simulation in GrabCAD Print Pro is planned to be available in a joint Stratasys & Novineer early access pilot program in Q2 of 2026.
