Innovation Aimed at Solving Today’s Challenges

By Robert “Buzz” Kross, Autodesk

Robert “Buzz” Kross, Autodesk

What is the simplest definition of engineering? We could say that engineering is the application of technical and scientific knowledge to achieve a desired result. Or we could simplify it even further and say that engineering is about problem solving.

  As society advances, the problems that engineers need to solve are constantly evolving. In the 1960s, one of the greatest challenges was figuring out a way to put a man on the moon. In the 21st century, climate change and sustainability have emerged as some of the most pressing issues requiring our attention.

The ever-changing nature of these challenges means that software, too, must evolve to provide the engineering community with the tools it needs to tackle the challenges of the day.

  As a world leader in 2D and 3D design software for the manufacturing, building and construction, and media and entertainment markets, Autodesk has continually evolved its product line to create more powerful and effective techniques and technologies. At the heart of this evolution is the Autodesk solution for Digital Prototyping.

Digital prototyping enables companies to share a single digital model from conceptual design through to manufacturing. Companies can work digitally from project outset using the best-in-class conceptual design tools of the Autodesk AliasStudio product line to create digital sketches and concept drawings.

This data can then be shared with Autodesk Inventor software, which provides the foundation for digital prototyping. Autodesk Inventor software produces an accurate 3D model that validates the form, fit, and function of a design before anything is built. Using digital prototypes to visualize and simulate real-world performance of a design reduces the number of physical prototypes that need to be built.

  The value of digital prototyping is further extended by the Autodesk Productstream family of data management applications. These applications enable design workgroups to automate the design revision and release processes and manage engineering bills of materials. This shortens production times, increases the ability to leverage standardized design processes, and facilitates better collaboration among design, manufacturing, and vendors.

  What this type of prototyping represents is a new approach to design and manufacturing: one that reduces reliance on physical prototypes, trims waste, and helps address all aspects of responsible design and manufacturing, putting an increased emphasis on sustainability.

  People are much more motivated to solve problems when they’re given a proper set of tools. Opportunities to innovate are available to every engineer. With the right tools, innovation blooms — without it, innovation withers.

  Until recently, the ability to build and test a digital prototype was out of reach for most manufacturers. By making it cost-effective, Autodesk is uniquely positioned to bring digital prototyping to a wide range of manufacturing workgroups in companies of all sizes.

  At Autodesk University 2008, we’re focused on inspiring and empowering the next generation of designers and engineers. Today’s challenges are too important to ignore, and with Autodesk solutions, the engineering community is well equipped to continue its role as problem solvers for the 21st century.

Robert “Buzz” Kross is senior vice president of the Manufacturing Solutions Division at Autodesk. Send e-mail about this commentary to [email protected].