At the Autodesk University (AU) Las Vegas event, the conference kicked off yesterday with an inspiring general session led by CEO Andrew Anagnost and a lineup of special guests. One of the highlights was a presentation from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, showcasing an innovative manufacturing research project that's pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the field.
Today, I had the pleasure of co-hosting a keynote with Steve Hooper, where we discussed the latest trends in the manufacturing industry and how we're enhancing our Product Design & Manufacturing Collection to better serve our customers. We also highlighted how our broader software portfolio is evolving to meet their needs. A great example of this is WHILL, a company that designs ultra-portable mobility chairs. Through the use of Autodesk generative design, they've successfully reimagined and lightweighted their product, demonstrating the real-world impact of our tools.
Looking ahead, we believe the convergence of design and manufacturing is not just a trend—it's the future. By breaking down traditional silos between designers, engineers, and manufacturers, we can significantly improve speed, cost efficiency, innovation, and overall product quality. This is why we're making bold moves to accelerate this transformation.
One of our key announcements today is the expansion of Autodesk Generative Design to support 2- and 2.5-axis machining. This means more users, including those with basic CNC machines, can now leverage generative design to create optimized parts. Fusion 360 continues to be the central platform for this, offering cloud-based generative design, advanced simulation, and CAM tools. New subscribers will also receive 100 cloud credits as a one-time grant, allowing them to explore these capabilities without upfront costs.
The Fusion 360 workspace now provides a true hybrid manufacturing experience, combining additive and CAM workflows into one seamless process. For more details, check out the Fusion 360 blog.
In another exciting development, we’ve integrated Autodesk Generative Design with HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D printers, creating a streamlined design-to-print workflow. This makes it easier for customers to move from digital models to physical prototypes quickly. Penumbra Engineering, a long-time partner, recently used this workflow to design and manufacture a high-performance ultrasonic sensing device. The result? A lightweight, durable, and easy-to-use product that meets even the toughest conditions.
Michelle Bockman, Global Head of 3D Printing Commercial Expansion & Development at HP, said: “Combining HP’s voxel-level capabilities with Autodesk Generative Design opens up new creative possibilities and accelerates production. By empowering the Autodesk ecosystem to design for 3D across HP’s entire portfolio, we’re unlocking new potential for our customers.â€
To help get started, HP and Autodesk are offering a free one-year Fusion 360 subscription with any HP Jet Fusion 300, 500, or 4200 printer purchased before FORMNEXT 2019, along with 300 cloud credits for those who sign up before January 31, 2019.
Another major collaboration is with GE Additive, where we’re working to simplify metal additive manufacturing. The integrated workflow built on Fusion 360 connects all stages of the process—from design and simulation to printing and analytics. This allows designers to make informed decisions early on, reducing the need for physical prototyping and saving time and resources.
Lars Bruns, software leader at GE Additive, shared: “This partnership helps our customers lower the barriers to adopting additive manufacturing and speeds up their path to a first good part.â€
We’re also collaborating with EWI to promote the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies, including Directed Energy Deposition (DED). This includes training programs that bring together engineers and equipment manufacturers to share best practices and learn about the latest tools in Autodesk PowerMill 2019. The next phase will focus on developing a comprehensive course that bridges processes, software, and hardware.
From product development to strategic partnerships, we're constantly pushing forward. These innovations are just the latest examples of how we're helping our customers stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.
Why do we do this? Because Autodesk has always been committed to making advanced technology accessible to everyone. We believe in empowering our manufacturing customers to embrace the future and succeed. And when our customers win, we all win.
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