Feature

Smarter business: How AI is driving the evolution of 3D printing

According to Protolabs’ 3D Printing Trend Report 2024, the 3D printing market is booming and could be worth $57.1 billion by the end of 2028. A key driver in this growth is the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline and automate processes, provide design support, and much more.

01/08/2024 11:01:31

Using some of the insights uncovered in the report, Protolabs looks at how designers and manufacturers are already deploying AI in 3D printing, and where it could best be applied in future.

For the research, Protolabs surveyed more than 700 engineers, designers and manufacturers worldwide, across various sectors, to understand their current use of 3D printing. According to the results, 70 percent of businesses printed more parts in 2023 than in the previous year. More than four in five (82 percent) said that 3D printing had helped them save substantial costs.

Protolabs also looked at some of the key trends likely to emerge over the coming year, including the advances being made by AI. Every industry is learning which AI applications could work best to help innovate, drive further efficiencies, and remain competitive. 3D printing is part of that revolution.

Read the full article in DPA's August 2024 issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.