The future of making things: 3D printing
In the last 5 years, 3D printing has come a long way. In fact, the FDA just approved the first 3D-printed drug signaling that we could be on the brink of a major change in the way we make, and take, medications. No longer the sole domain of rapid prototyping, 3D printing is now being used to make everything from a beautiful bridge in Amsterdam to custom-fit earphones and more. Check out how a student saved his school more than $10,000 by 3D printing an outdated, unavailable part for an old heater—preventing them from having to replace the entire system.
Still not impressed? How about 3D-printed organs? Or the possibility that we’ll soon be 3D printing (and eating) healthy, living snacks? NASA even put a 3D printer on the International Space Station so the crew can print their own parts and tools, rather than wait months or even years for replacement parts to arrive from Earth. That’s pretty much the coolest thing ever. (Not to brag, but Autodesk was in on this from the start—watch Dr. Yvonne Cagle speaking at the AU 2014 Las Vegas Closing Keynote Address and see for yourself. Yep. We’re light years ahead.)
If you’re a CAD user—and are as excited about these developments as we are—be sure to check out the 3D Printing Tailored Experience at AU 2015. Learn everything you need to know about 3D printing from how to get started, to legal issues you need to consider, to creating your own customizable app using the new Autodesk Spark Open API platform. Plus, you’ll get a chance to connect with like-minded professionals in your field from all over the world at the 3D Printing Meet and Greet Breakfast. Check out a list of AU 2015 Las Vegas 3D printing classes you can attend. Trust us, you’re going to love this experience. You’ll leave inspired, excited, and educated.
If 3D printing is among your top interests, you’ll love this year’s volunteer activity benefiting the e-NABLE Group. This global network of volunteers uses 3D printing to make mechanical hands and arms for children who were either born without them or lost them due to illness or trauma. Stop by the Exhibit Hall and spend an hour or two making a real difference in a child’s life. Check out e-NABLE’s incredible work for yourself. (Warning: your eyeballs may 3D print some tears while you’re there.)
You don’t have to wait for AU Las Vegas to dive in to 3D printing. You can check out last year’s 3D printing classes at AU online right now to get your gears turning. Registration for AU 2015 opens in 2 weeks—let’s do this!
