Fabtech showcased new 3D printing technology as well as quality tools. In the smart manufacturing hub,  companies such as Microsoft, Stratasys, SLM Solutions, Desktop Metal and Memex made the case for data-driven manufacturing and described how companies can get there. As Microsoft said, “AI is ready. Are you?”

Here are two application examples where the combination of 2D and 3D provide results that cannot be achieved by either technology on its own.

3D builds on the proven capabilities of 2D by adding a secondary layer of data describing shape, which is essential to designing highly robust measurement systems.

In the world of automated industrial quality control and inline inspection, both 2D and 3D technology have important roles to play. In this three part blog series we will look at the strengths and limitations of each, and how combining the two creates a more complete inspection system.

Although it’s not exactly a new problem within industry in the United States, there has been a definite uptick in the overall attention being given to the “lack of qualified personnel” issue we are experiencing.

It’s not enough to just think about it or plan for it, wish or hope or imagine it.