Autodesk has announced some additional features to its Fusion 360 cloud software which focus on the platform’s integration with 3D printing, 2D design elements and distributed design.
Unveiling the latest features at the Solid conference in San Francisco, Fusion 360 now supports distributed design which enables teams separated geographically to work together on separate parts of a large project and monitor each other’s progress. There are also several improvements to sketching to improve the visibility of sketch lines, access to sketch controls and also 2D drawing capabilities.
The update also includes Autodesk Print Studio powered by Spark which speeds up the preparation time for 3D print files. The platform will allow users to modify digital models to fit pre-defined printer volumes without affecting the original model and can be integrated with the Ember 3D printer, Type A Machines, Dremel, MakerBot and Ultimaker machines.
In addition, Fusion now features several partner integrations to bring users access to millions of 3D models, quoting capabilities and supply chain management. Britehub has been added to allow users to request and compare quotes for manufacturing a part, whilst Proto Labs is soon set to have its rapid injection moulding and CNC machining quoting service added with its 3D printing service to follow shortly. CADENAS’ parts4cad will provide users with designed-to-spec models and assemblies from more than 400 certified manufacturers’ catalogues directly within Fusion 360.
“With its combination of design and CAM capabilities, Fusion 360 has been integral to our business and bringing our product to market,” explained Jesse Vincent, co-founder of Keyboardio and avid user of Fusion 360. “We rely on it for designing our ergonomic keyboards, for 3D printing prototypes and for conveying CAM data to our contract manufacturer. It’s an incredible package and an incredible price.”
