Altair Buys Gen3D

Altair acquired Gen3D, a startup out of the University of Bath, United Kingdom. Gen3D implements the implicit geometry method for describing complex geometries such as lattice structures in additive manufacturing (AM).  

Gen3D’s technology uses next-generation implicit modeling techniques to create complex geometry not practical with traditional boundary representation (BREP) solid approaches. This allows for components to be designed by specifying the functional requirements for the part (loads, holes for fastenings, keep-out zones, ducts for fluid flow, etc). 

Gen3D’s generative design tool enables engineers to create complex designs while minimizing  in-print failures. It is used by design engineers for applications such as energy absorption, heat transfer, filtration and others across industries such as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, medical and energy. 

“In addition to a powerful technology that helps organizations navigate the challenges of design for additive manufacturing, the Gen3D team brings deep industry knowledge and experience in advanced additive design techniques such as generative design, topology optimization and lattice structure generation,” says James R. Scapa, founder and chief executive officer, Altair.

The technology will be integrated into Altair Inspire, a family of software products that enables simulation-driven design throughout the entire product development lifecycle, from concept to reality. When used early in the design process, the Inspire technology empowers the creation of designs that are focused on performance and manufacturability and enables its users to explore, develop and manufacture high-performance products in a single intuitive development environment.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.