The first steps in the software

  1. The installation file of the slicing software can be found on the provided USB stick from Dreve. Connect it to the computer and run the file.

  2. When the software is started for the first time, you will be asked to enter a licence. It can also be found on the provided USB stick and can be read directly from the file. The software is now unlocked with the licence.
    Tip: The license allows the software to be activated on two computers.

  3. As soon as the licence has been entered, a printer must be selected in the software. Select the "Sonic XL 4K Dreve Edition" and make sure that the "Download optional data" option is selected. This feature ensures that the latest profiles from Dreve are available each time the software is launched.

  4. The software is now ready for operation. To load a model into the software, click on "Open file" and open the desired file. Additional models can be added by clicking on "Import file".
    Tip: Sample STL files for test prints can be found on the provided USB stick.

  5. Use the right and middle mouse buttons to move/rotate the view in the software.

  6. The left mouse button is used to select and move placed components.
    a) Clicking on the arrowheads moves components along individual axes.
    b) Clicking on the two-coloured squares moves the components within the respective plane.
    c)     Clicking on the arc-shaped lines rotates the components around the axes.
    Tip: Make sure that all components are sufficiently in contact with the build surface to prevent print errors and tears. If the components do not have a flat surface that can be placed directly on the build platform, use the "Support generation" function to secure the components using support structures.

  7. Once all components are positioned and aligned, the slicing process can be started by clicking on "start slicing". Make sure that the correct device and the desired print profile are selected in the upper part of the opening window. The designation and the storage location can be entered in the middle of the window.
    Tip: For some materials, there are several print profiles available for selection. Please check under "Profile" on the website to find the right profile for your planned print job.

  8. After clicking on "OK, start slicing", the file readable by the printer is created by the software. Afterwards, a window is displayed in which the designation of the file on the printer as well as the IP address of the printer for direct upload of the file can be entered. If the file is to be transferred to the printer via USB stick or the upload function in the web interface, the window can be closed. The file is located at the location specified in point 7.

  9. The work in the software is now completed and the software can be closed.

Terminology

Build job/print job

The build job is the designation of a single print process carried out by the printer.

Build platform

The build platform is the component on which the components to be printed are build. It can be taken out of the printer.

Calibration

Calibration is the adjustment of the build platform. For faultless print results, the platform must be precisely aligned in parallel to the tray bottom.

Cleaning and post-curing

Printed components must be further processed after printing. In the first step, they need to be cleaned to remove any excess resin. The following step is post-curing for ensuring the final material properties like hardness or biocompatibility.

IP address

The IP address is the unique designation of a device within a network. The address consists of four blocks of digits separated by dots. The IP address of the Sonic XL 4K is displayed in the upper left corner of the display.

Misprints/tears

Contamination of the resin by foreign particles or faulty processes can lead to misprints. Single areas or components may not be printed correctly or even tear off during the print process.

Phrozen 3D

Phrozen 3D is the slicing software for the Sonic XL 4K Qualified by Dreve.

Print profile

A print profile includes all necessary parameters for the processing of resin on a specific type of printer. These parameters include values like exposure times or dimensional stability factors. Dreve carefully developed and precisely set the print profiles for Sonic XL 4K Qualified by Dreve.

Slicer/slicing software

The slicer or slicing software is the tool required to create a file readable for the printer out of an STL file.

Support structures/supports

Support structures or supports are additional structures added in the slicer to connect components with the build platform.

Vat

The function of the vat is to collect dripping resin and it also serves as material reservoir during the print process.

Our experts

DIY: Having decided for 3D printing is an innovative step for your workflow. However, sometimes especially the implementation and getting started can be challenging, not only for beginners. Our experts for dental additive manufacturing and 3D print are glad to support you on your way. They guide you through the process so that you will succeed and get your parts printed.