Z Corp. Delivers 3D Physical Models for AutoCAD Users

By DE Editors

Z Corporation (Burlington, MA) announced that AutoCAD (Autodesk, Inc., San Rafael, CA; autodesk.com) software users can now quickly and easily obtain 3D physical models of designs in progress to help them enhance products, cut costs, and shorten development cycles – thanks to a new service called ZPrints. The new capability answers the increasing need for more 3D printed prototypes at every stage of the design cycle.

Announced last week at Autodesk University 2008, ZPrints enables designers and engineers to click a button in AutoCAD 2009, order a 3D model online, and have it printed and shipped to them immediately for review with colleagues, customers, and partners. AutoCAD, one of the world’s leading 2D and 3D design applications, produces 3D models that easily convert to industry-standard 3D printing data (STL). ZPrints leverages newly available 3D printing functionality that has been introduced to AutoCAD subscription customers via a new bonus pack.

ZPrints represents a partnership between Z Corporation 3D printing technology and Quickparts (Atlanta, GA), a rapid prototyping service provider that provides custom manufactured parts, tooling, and technologies that support the product development community.

For details, visit Z Corporation.

For related DE coverage, see “AutoCAD 2009 Offers PDF and 3D Printing Bonus Packs,” (Dec. 2008).

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