There, has, unsurprisingly, been a flourish of 3D printing expos around the globe with which to inform the various publics about what 3D printing is, what it can do and how it can improve their lives. The latest to come to our attention will take place in Maine, Oregon on November 1st of this year, bringing the people of Portland news and knowledge from the world of additive manufacturing.
The DigiFab Conferences on Digital Fabrication and 3D Technology was developed by the Maine chapter of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), in conjunction with the University of Southern Maine’s College of Science, Technology & Health. And, with keynote speakers Buddy Byrum, Vice President of Product & Channel Management at 3D Systems, and Sherry Lassiter, Program Manager of the MIT Center for Bits and Atoms and Director of Fab Foundation, the event hopes to inform both SME and non-SME members about how 3D printing is being incorporated into their lives and business practices.
The event will be divided up into two tracks. One track will cover industrial applications, like how AM can be used as a tool in manufacturing and how manufacturers can prepare for the industry changes caused by the technology. The other will go over educational applications, such as how to use laser cutters and 3D printing for both STEM and liberal arts curriculums, how to obtain funding to set-up FabLabs in the classroom and how teachers can become trained in the use of such equipment.
USM’s Dean Andrew L. Anderson explained his take on the importance of digital fabrication, saying: “This is an extremely relevant topic given the nature of the technology and its growing use. While digital fabrication and 3D printing are not new technologies, they have developed to the point of being applicable to a much wider audience and are now more affordable. One can only imagine the new and innovative ways the technology will be applied as its use continues to grow.”
Also present at the event will be a representative from the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute (NAMII) or America Makes as it is now being called, who will explain the various resources the national institute has to offer to members of industry and education. As the SME is a member of America Makes and is currently in the process of updating its image, I wouldn’t be surprised if they hosted more of these events across the country to firmly establish the future network of AM institutes proposed by the Obama Administration.
Be sure to add the DigiFab Conference on Digital Fabrication and 3D Technology to your calendar! It will take place Friday, November 1, 2013 at the Abromson Center on USM’s Portland Campus.
Source: PR Web
