Please share how 3D Printing, in particular DfAM could improve quality of life in the future?
The time for Design for Additive Manufacturing is now. With the latest generation of 3Dprinters, materials and software, designers can take advantage of the freedom of design to unlock high-performance components which are more customized and durable than ever. One example close to consumers is the mass-customization of shoe soles by a major sportwear manufacturer. This is game-changing because proves that customization is economically viable at mass production.
Please share what your views are on the evolution and growth of Additive Manufacturing processes and materials to revolutionise manufacturing.
I foresee the continuation of customization of printers and materials specifically designed for a single product. Enabled by the possibility to scale production volume, and the acceleration of materials discovery through computational design, I see this as a mega-trend which will continue in additive manufacturing community for years.
How does DfAM helps in productivity and cost reduction with respect to your industry?
DfAM makes the impossible possible. For example, by taking advantage of the freedom of design of AM, heat exchangers with efficiency never seen before can be manufactured. This is a clear case of cost reduction, because smaller, more efficient heat exchangers are lighter and therefore are fuel savers as aircraft components.
What are different challenges startups and MNCs face in adopting Design for AM?
I will speak on a pure software companies’ perspective here. For startups, it is difficult to have the reach to acquire the talent pool required for such specialized know-how. For MNCs, the challenge is the integration of DfAM into existing software products, which is a complicated task requiring synergy among different teams and expertise.
What does Additive Manufacturing mean to you and to your business journey?
Additive Manufacturing is a fantastic opportunity for me to apply my skillset to an industry-relevant application. It provides a strong case for developing advanced simulation software for additive manufacturing.
Please quote 1 successful application of DfAM.
The mass-customized shoe soles produced by a major sportswear manufacturer.