Minnesota based industrial 3D printing specialist Stratasys has issued an SDK that can integrate its 3D printers into enterprise software systems. The new SDK extends industry-standard protocols with new features and remote capabilities.

The GrabCAD SDK includes a set of application programming interfaces for two-way connectivity between Stratasys FDM 3D printers and enterprise software applications. With the program, users can integrate, manage, and support additive manufacturing for production of end-use parts.

Stratasys has previously introduced support for MTConnect, an industry-standard protocol that enables customers to communicate factory data. According to Stratasys, its new SDK features additional capabilities for sending and receiving printer commands and for remote monitoring. The SDK is designed to support Industry 4.0 requirements for more sophisticated two-way integration.

Initial partners for the GrabCAD SDK program include Link3D, a specialist in additive workflow and manufacturing execution system software, and Identify3D, which provides software that enables security, usage control and traceability of design and manufacturing data across the digital supply chain.

“The Industrial IoT transformation is underway as leading manufacturers seek to adopt a more digital, agile way of operating,” said Greg Gorbach, vice president of digitisation and IoT at ARC Advisory Group. “At the heart of IIoT is data and connectivity. For 3D printing to achieve its full potential on the shop floor, companies need an easy, secure, scalable way for additive manufacturing systems to integrate into Industry 4.0 initiatives in production environments.”

“Additive manufacturing enables almost anything to be manufactured almost anywhere quickly, and that is the kind of agility our customers need in a world of supply chain disruption,” said Dick Anderson, senior vice president for manufacturing at Stratasys. “Stratasys is committed to enable full integration with the smart factory to give our customers the speed and agility benefits that only additive manufacturing can provide.”

The first two available SDK packages enable customers and partners to integrate with GrabCAD Print software and Stratasys manufacturing systems including the F900, Fortus 450mc, and Stratasys F123 Series of FDM 3D printers.