MCADCafe Guest Blog Sanjay Gangal
Sanjay Gangal is the President of IBSystems, the parent company of AECCafe.com, MCADCafe, EDACafe.Com, GISCafe.Com, and ShareCG.Com. Reinventing the Future: Autodesk’s Bold Vision for AI, Sustainability, and the LA28 Olympics at Autodesk University 2024October 18th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
Autodesk University 2024 delivered an inspiring keynote by President and CEO Andrew Anagnost, offering a bold vision for the future of AI, sustainability, and how these transformative forces are set to reshape industries. This year’s keynote featured in-depth conversations with Casey Wasserman, Chairperson of LA28, and Raji Arasu, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer of Autodesk. Together, they explored Autodesk’s groundbreaking role in the upcoming LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, its application of artificial intelligence (AI) across industries, and the lasting impact of technology in a rapidly changing world. AI for Practical TransformationAnagnost opened with a candid discussion about the gap between AI’s hype and its current usefulness. He acknowledged that while much of AI’s promise remains unfulfilled, Autodesk is laser-focused on creating AI tools that deliver practical solutions today. “Technologies come with a lot of hype, but our focus at Autodesk is on AI that works for you today, delivering tangible productivity and creativity gains,” Anagnost said. His message was clear: Autodesk is driving AI innovation that empowers users across industries, from architecture to manufacturing to entertainment.
One of the standout initiatives presented was Project Bernini, Autodesk’s groundbreaking AI model. Bernini allows designers to generate fully realized 3D objects in minutes, a process that would have traditionally taken hours or even days. This AI tool is already proving to be a game-changer in streamlining design workflows, with the potential to enhance creativity while eliminating repetitive tasks. “Bernini exemplifies how AI can augment your creativity and productivity,” said Arasu, emphasizing that Autodesk’s AI is designed to solve real-world problems, not just theoretical challenges. Arasu elaborated on how Bernini allows designers to prompt AI using natural language, sketches, or images, creating a new era of rapid ideation. “We want AI to enhance your skills, not replace them. The creative work that you do is so complex and so special—AI cannot solve for your ingenuity,” Arasu said. Axtra3D: Redefining 3D Printing with Breakthrough Hybrid TechnologySeptember 16th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
At the IMTS Conference in Chicago, Rajeev Kulkarni, Chief Strategy Officer of Axtra3D, sat down to discuss how his company is transforming the world of 3D printing. Founded in 2021, Axtra3D has swiftly gained attention for its pioneering Hybrid Photosynthesis technology, which combines the best aspects of both DLP (Digital Light Processing) and SLA (Stereolithography Apparatus) printing into a single machine. In a crowded 3D printing market, the company’s unique dual-imaging system has set a new standard for print quality, speed, and material flexibility. A Revolutionary Approach to 3D PrintingAxtra3D’s flagship innovation is its hybrid printing technology, which seamlessly integrates DLP and laser imaging systems. “When we print parts, both the DLP and the laser work simultaneously to create each layer,” explained Kulkarni. “The DLP handles the bulk of the internal structure, while the laser focuses on the finer, more delicate features. This allows us to achieve the resolution and accuracy of SLA printing with the throughput of DLP.” This combination is critical in producing high-quality parts efficiently, especially for applications that demand precision. The unique “TrueLayer” technology also eliminates the peeling process typically used in 3D printing, enabling smooth, glass-like surfaces with no hydrostatic force applied during printing. This results in parts with unparalleled surface quality, opening up new possibilities in mold inserts, connectors, and low-volume production. Success Across Industrial and Healthcare MarketsKulkarni shared how Axtra3D’s technology is finding success across various industries, particularly in industrial applications and healthcare. “Mold inserts have been one of our most successful applications,” he noted. The speed and precision of Axtra3D’s printers enable manufacturers to go from design to finished parts within a single day—an invaluable capability for industries reliant on fast prototyping and production. In the healthcare sector, Axtra3D has made significant strides in dental applications, from crowns and bridges to surgical guides and dentures. Kulkarni highlighted the partnerships with key material suppliers to ensure that the company’s dental applications meet the highest standards. “By the end of the year, we will have 16 dental applications fully qualified, with FDA-approved materials from our partners.” Read the rest of Axtra3D: Redefining 3D Printing with Breakthrough Hybrid Technology JuggerBot 3D: Revolutionizing Large Format 3D PrintingAugust 16th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
JuggerBot 3D, based in Youngstown, Ohio, has emerged as a significant force in the 3D printing industry, specializing in large format 3D printers capable of processing a wide variety of materials. The company, co-founded ten years ago, has focused on creating robust, versatile systems designed to meet the needs of industries that extend beyond traditional prototyping. At the heart of JuggerBot 3D’s offerings is the Tradesman Series™ P3-44. This medium format, pellet-fed system bridges a crucial gap in the market by providing users with the ability to utilize a broader range of materials than what conventional 3D printers typically support. According to Dan Fernback, Vice President of JuggerBot 3D, the P3-44 is not only equipped to handle diverse materials, but it also offers unparalleled process control, making it a standout in the industry. The machine is self-contained, featuring built-in dryers to maintain material integrity throughout the entire printing process, and insulated, heated chambers to ensure consistent cooling and quality of printed parts.
In addition to hardware, JuggerBot 3D has collaborated with Oak Ridge National Laboratory to enhance the user experience. This collaboration has led to the development of advanced tools that enable process engineers and operators to capture and utilize data effectively, streamlining production workflows. A notable innovation from JuggerBot 3D is the launch of the Airtech Dahltram® I-350CF material card. This digital product represents a significant advancement in 3D printing with third-party materials, allowing users to tap into non-proprietary options while maintaining high-quality output. The material card simplifies the process of creating reliable, repeatable print parameters, which is particularly valuable when working with complex materials like the Airtech Dahltram™ I-350CF, a high-temperature thermoplastic composite reinforced with carbon fiber. Read the rest of JuggerBot 3D: Revolutionizing Large Format 3D Printing AON3D: Revolutionizing 3D Printing with Metal Replacement PolymersJuly 1st, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In the ever-evolving landscape of additive manufacturing, AON3D stands out as a pioneering force. Founded in 2015, this Montreal-based company has made significant strides to make it easy and affordable to 3D print the world’s highest performance polymers, also known as metal replacement polymers. In a recent conversation with Eric Beardslee, Product & Content Marketing Manager at AON3D, we delved into the innovative solutions and applications that are propelling the company to the forefront of the industry. AON3D’s Vision and Mission AON3D’s mission is clear: to democratize industrial 3D printing by providing open material printers that allow users full control over the entire process. Beardslee explained that the founders were frustrated with the status quo, where proprietary systems limited users to specific settings and materials. This motivated them to create a printer that offers unparalleled flexibility and control with end-to-end automation for those who want “just push print usability”. “We are a hardware and software company that focuses primarily on metal replacement polymers,” Beardslee stated. “We’re working towards AM adoption in regulated applications through process automation, AI-drive process tuning, and in-process monitoring, which delivers stronger, more consistent, and quality verified parts.” Cutting-Edge Hardware: The Hylo High Temperature 3D Printer At the heart of AON3D’s hardware offerings is Hylo, one of the largest and fastest high temperature 3D printers on the market, is able to process the world’s highest performance polymers, such as PEEK and ULTEM™. With a build volume of 650 x 450 x 450 mm and independent dual extrusion, Hylo can produce full scale, end-use parts in a fraction of the time. “Our printer has end-to-end automation,” Beardslee said. “It features an automated material system, optical nozzle inspection and XY calibration, independent extruder leveling, and in-process monitoring. Through automation, we can achieve new levels of reliability and part consistency” Read the rest of AON3D: Revolutionizing 3D Printing with Metal Replacement Polymers Unleashing New Horizons: Gemini Era Ushers in Revolutionary AI Developments at Google I/OMay 15th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
At this year’s Google I/O, the electrifying atmosphere was palpable as Google unveiled its latest triumph in artificial intelligence—the Gemini project. This year’s keynote, delivered by Sundar Pichai amidst rousing applause, emphasized Google’s relentless drive to refine and enhance AI capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what technology can achieve in our daily lives. The conference kicked off with a spirited recap of the year’s achievements and a peek into the “Gemini era,” a bold new phase in Google’s AI development. The introduction of Gemini, a model designed from the ground up to be natively multimodal, capable of processing and integrating text, images, video, and more, marks a significant leap forward. This model is not just an incremental update; it’s a transformational shift that promises to redefine how we interact with technology. In a demonstration of its prowess, Google revealed that Gemini can handle complex, multimodal tasks with ease, showcasing examples from various Google ecosystems such as Search, Photos, and Android. For instance, the newly enhanced Google Photos now utilizes Gemini to allow users to interact with their photos in revolutionary ways—like asking the app to recall specific details from images without manually searching. One of the most exciting announcements was the expansion of Gemini’s capabilities into consumer products. Now integrated across Google’s suite of applications, Gemini’s reach extends into everyday use, making advanced AI tools accessible to everyone. The introduction of Gemini Advanced and the announcement of its availability on mobile platforms underscore Google’s commitment to democratizing AI technology.
Intel Sets New Paradigms in Enterprise AI with Launch of Gaudi 3 at Intel Vision 2024April 11th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
At Intel Vision 2024, under the leadership of CEO Pat Gelsinger, Intel demonstrated its strong commitment to transforming enterprise artificial intelligence (AI) with groundbreaking announcements and product launches. Highlighted by the unveiling of the Intel® Gaudi® 3 AI accelerator, the event showcased Intel’s comprehensive strategy to advance AI technologies in the enterprise sector. This strategy includes the development of open, scalable systems that facilitate AI operations across all segments, partnerships with industry giants to enhance ecosystem integration, and an aggressive push towards improving AI inference and power efficiency with cost-effective solutions. Pat Gelsinger’s vision for Intel marks a significant leap forward in the company’s quest to democratize AI technology and drive innovation across diverse industries.
Intel Unleashes the Power of Speed: The Core i9-14900KS Sets New Standards for Desktop PerformanceMarch 14th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In the realm of desktop computing, speed and power are the twin pillars upon which the ultimate user experience rests. Today, Intel has once again affirmed its commitment to these principles with the announcement of its Intel® Core™ 14th Gen i9-14900KS processors, heralding a new epoch in desktop processor speeds. Intel’s latest marvel, the i9-14900KS, bursts through previous boundaries by offering a staggering 6.2 gigahertz (GHz) max turbo frequency straight out of the box. This isn’t just another incremental step forward; it’s a giant leap that cements Intel’s status as the purveyor of the world’s fastest desktop processor. For the legion of PC enthusiasts, gamers, and content creators, this represents not just an upgrade but a transformation in what they can expect from their desktop systems. “The Intel Core i9-14900KS showcases the full power and performance potential of the Intel Core 14th Gen desktop processor family and its performance hybrid architecture,” says Roger Chandler, Intel’s vice president and general manager of the Enthusiast PC and Workstation Segment. His words underscore a fundamental truth about today’s computing demands: they are evolving, and Intel is leading the charge in meeting these demands head-on. Bridging Innovation: The Pioneering Partnership Between SOLIDWORKS and Cadence Redefines Product DevelopmentFebruary 19th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
In an ambitious move that signals a new dawn for product development, Dassault Systèmes’ SOLIDWORKS and Cadence Design Systems have embarked on a pioneering partnership. This collaboration is set to transform the landscape of design and manufacturing by seamlessly integrating the realms of mechanical and electronic design. The convergence of SOLIDWORKS’ 3D CAD technology with Cadence’s unparalleled electronic design automation (EDA) capabilities, facilitated through the 3DEXPERIENCE cloud platform, marks a watershed moment in engineering. A Synergy of ExpertiseAt the core of this groundbreaking partnership is the fusion of two distinct yet complementary worlds: the mechanical design strength of SOLIDWORKS and the electronic design finesse of Cadence, particularly its OrCAD and Allegro PCB design tools. This integration is poised to solve a perennial challenge in product design—bridging the gap between mechanical and electronic design workflows that have traditionally operated in silos. The Unified Design VisionThe partnership’s cornerstone is its commitment to a unified design process. By integrating mechanical and electronic tools on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, the collaboration promises a cohesive design environment. This holistic approach ensures that every design element, from PCB layouts to mechanical enclosures, is synchronized, reducing errors and iterations, and significantly accelerating time-to-market for new products.
MCADCafe Industry Predictions for 2024 – ComsolJanuary 25th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
By Ed Fontes, Chief Technology Officer, COMSOLTrends in Computer-Aided Engineering: A Multiphysics PerspectiveIn the last decades, modeling and simulation (M&S) has become essential for understanding, predicting, and optimizing the behavior and design of processes and devices. Moore’s law, new numerical methods, and new software have facilitated this development. M&S was once exclusive to R&D departments at large companies, universities, and governmental labs but has since spread to the design departments of both large and small organizations. The use of models has also changed. For decades, models were used in the exploratory and development stages of a project. Today, models can be incorporated into devices and processes to continuously adapt to, extract information from, and control them during operation. For example, models can be incorporated into digital twins in order to determine when a wing should be replaced in a fighter jet or when a wind turbine needs service. Due to this expanding scope of use, the expectations for computer-aided engineering (CAE) software have grown together with the demand for M&S. Although CAE software has become more user friendly, most products still require some degree of knowledge about mathematical and numerical modeling. Ease of use — in terms of assisting engineers and scientists with modeling issues such as consistent initial conditions, boundary conditions, loads, and constraints — is an important aspect of CAE software design. Additionally, making user interfaces more self-guiding is something that most software developers are spending considerable resources on, partly driven by increased demand but also by the scarcity of M&S specialists. In this context, the use of bots may become more important to guide users in the general modeling process and give instructions for specific modeling steps. Read the rest of MCADCafe Industry Predictions for 2024 – Comsol MCADCafe Industry Predictions for 2024 – C3DLabJanuary 24th, 2024 by Sanjay Gangal
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