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Autodesk showcasing its generative design technology at IMTS

Autodesk is showcasing a number of products and recent updates that it says are “powering the convergence of design and manufacturing”.

The company has a huge range of software which are used in architecture and construction, and increasingly in the manufacturing industry.

Among the new Autodesk developments on show at IMTS are listed below. 

Autodesk will release the latest version of its PowerMill software, Autodesk’s computer-aided manufacturing solution for high-speed and five-axis machining that now includes new programming options for machine tools capable of both additive and subtractive operations.

The company will also bring attention to its updated Fusion Production software, which provides real-time visibility into production status for design, manufacturing and operations teams working together regardless of their location.

The company will also detail the availability of Autodesk’s generative design technology via Fusion 360.

Generative design utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to generate hundreds of product design options based on certain constraints, such as material type, strength, weight, manufacturing method and more.

Generative design could also be called “automated” or “autonomous” design.

Autodesk will also highlight its work and compatibility with machine tool powerhouses such as DMG MORI, Okuma, DMS, CR Onsrud, Doosan, Hardinge, Haas, Datron, BeAM Machines and others.

Some of the other recent examples of companies using Autodesk software are listed below.

General Motors

The automaker is using Autodesk’s generative design technology to reduce vehicle weight.

As a proof of concept, the two companies created a seat bracket – where seatbelts are fastened – that is 40 percent lighter and 20 percent stronger than the original part, and consolidates eight different components into one 3D-printed bracket.

Port of Rotterdam

One of the busiest ports in the world, Rotterdam teamed up with Autodesk to create the first 3D printed ship propeller.

This technology has the potential to transform the maritime industry by allowing propellers – and eventually other ship components – to be 3D printed on-demand, rather than waiting weeks or months for replacement parts, wasting time and money while a ship sits idle.

Lightning Motorcycles

The motorcycle manufacturer used Autodesk’s generative design technology to explore thousands of design solutions for its swing arm, the main component of the rear suspension.

This enabled them to cut the weight of the bike without compromising performance, and ultimately get the world’s fastest electric motorcycle to market “faster than competitors”.

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