Nodi's Major Update: Implicit Modeling Empowers Design for Additive Manufacturing

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March 6, 2026 Applications 9904

Nodi adds implicit modeling for DfAM, TPMS lattices for lightweight 3DP; desktop in dev.

The node-based 3D modeling platform Nodi has recently launched a major upgrade, introducing implicit modeling capabilities specifically for design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) workflows. This new feature helps users more flexibly control internal structures and material properties.

The update allows users to define shapes using mathematical functions, replacing traditional boundary representation (B-rep) or polygon meshes. In implicit modeling, functions calculate signed distances between points in space and the shape, enabling stable execution of operations such as Boolean unions, fillets, and thickness adjustments—tasks that often fail in traditional CAD environments.

The new functionality supports the generation of TPMS lattice structures, widely used in lightweight 3D printed designs. Nodi demonstrated this application through a collaboration with YOKOITO Inc., using MultiJet Fusion to print a drone shell that combines thin walls with complex lattice patterns, significantly enhancing structural strength with minimal added weight.

Additionally, Nodi is developing a desktop version of its software to handle more intensive computational demands and support local analysis execution. This desktop client will bypass browser performance limitations, enabling faster processing of larger models. A waitlist for the desktop version is now open.

The web-based version of Nodi remains free and includes access to the new implicit modeling tools. Moving forward, the team plans to continuously expand DfAM-related features based on feedback from production projects.