Each year, the Additive Manufacturing User Group–AMUG, holds a conference for users by users. AMUG 2018 was held in St. Louis, MI, at the Union Station Hotel. The purpose for this event is to give you exposure to the industry’s biggest names, as well as the opportunity to network and ask questions.
The key question in additive manufacturing isn’t what’s happening now but rather what can we expect next. AMUG 2018 included keynote presentations, the Stratasys panel to help answer this question.
AMUG Keynote Speaker: Todd Grim
Todd Grimm, who has been working in the Additive Manufacturing industry for 27 years, gives his expert opinion on where he believes additive manufacturing is headed. In his keynote presentation, Todd talked about how 3D printing has followed the Gartner Hype Cycle and how it is now at the Slope of Enlightenment. Todd discussed some of the top trends in 3D printing that we see today. From changes in hardware to more predictive software to applications for better targeting, the trends we see continue to drive the future of 3D printing.
Stratasys Panel
This Stratasys keynote panel included representatives from FEDEX, Boeing, Ford Motor Company, Siemens and J&J Health Ventures. These industry leaders discussed their perspective of 3D printing and how the technology can move forward in the next five years.
In terms of software, these are the five key points from the panelists:
- Real world information
- Centers of excellence
- Production components
- Low volume applications
- Innovative materials (Medical)
In addition to software advancements, machines and materials also continue to improve and advance. However, it is an industry goal to improve the ability to produce end-use parts straight off a 3D printer. Lastly, having a software communicate with other major programs like ERP and MRP systems will improve supply chain confidence as well as delivery of products.
The goal of the AMUG Conference is to bring together engineers, designers, managers and educators from all over the world to share expertise, best practices, challenges and application developments in additive manufacturing. Next year, AMUG 2019 will be in held in Chicago.
Wondering how the future of 3D printing will impact your design and manufacturing workflow? Download our infographic to see our predictions!
