Optimal AM Part Design Combines Advanced Design Tools and DfAM Thinking
Altair EmployeePresentation by Marc Saunders, Director of Global Solutions Centres at Renishaw.
Most design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) is not really worthy of the name - 'adapt to AM' would be a better description. Parts are often designed for function rather than manufacturability, requiring a forest of supports to make them buildable. These slow us down, cost us money and may impact on part quality. When we are designing specifically for AM, our goal should be to avoid relying on supports to make our builds feasible. This thinking applies equally to where we are using topology optimisation or generative design to create AM components. DfAM is critical if we are to produce parts that combine exceptional performance with practical, cost-effective additive manufacture. Marc Saunders, Director of Renishaw Solutions Centres, will consider the key factors that drive the success rate and productivity of AM builds, and explain some of the critical guidelines that designers should follow to create efficient production components.