Chris Harbaugh with FX3D

Chris Harbaugh from FX3D discussed their innovative approach to manufacturing at Fabtech in Orlando. FX3D specializes in creating modular 3D printed fixtures for precision inspection, significantly reducing costs and time. They use a print farm with 30 printers, primarily PLA for plastic and laser sintering for metal components. This technology has cut throughput time by 25% and reduced rejections. Harbaugh emphasized the future direction towards AI-assisted fixture generation and digital twin technology for optimizing part designs and reducing shipping costs. Contact information for FX3D is available on their website and LinkedIn.

Action Items

• [ ] Explore opportunities to collaborate with FX 3D on digital twin and AI-enabled fixture design solutions.
• [ ] Follow up with Chris Harbaugh on LinkedIn or through the FX 3D website to discuss potential partnerships.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry innovations and trends.
• Scott welcomes listeners and celebrates their contributions to the industry, highlighting their bravery and problem-solving skills.
• The podcast is broadcasting live from Fab Tech in Orlando, with Scott noting the event's wrapping up and encouraging listeners to attend next year.
• Scott introduces Chris Harbaugh from FX 3D, mentioning their shared attire and the magnets Chris handed out.

Chris Harbaugh's Background and Family

• Chris Harbaugh shares his background, mentioning he is from Arkansas and is one of 13 children.
• Chris's father started the aerospace company Mundo Tech, which later changed its name to Ethics.
• Chris explains the necessity of precision and cost reduction in their high-profile military aircraft contracts.
• The company focused on reducing cycle time and inspection costs by creating modular 3D printed fixtures.

Development of 3D Printed Fixtures

• Chris describes the challenge of scanning each part for 100% inspection, leading to the idea of using 3D printed fixtures.
• Initially, they printed a small fixture, but faced limitations with larger, more complex parts.
• They developed modular 3D printed fixtures that could be assembled on-site, reducing costs and time.
• Chris explains the use of PLA and laser sintering for printing metal components, highlighting their in-house print farm.

Expansion and Digital Twin Technology

• Chris discusses the expansion of their solutions to include sheet metal components and major assemblies.
• They have developed the ability to create digital twins of parts and fixtures, reducing the need for physical fixtures.
• Chris envisions a future where digital twins and print-on-demand inventory could significantly reduce costs and time.
• The digital twin technology allows for simulations and optimizations, improving quality and reducing rejections.

AI and Automation in Fixture Generation

• Chris mentions their work on auto-generating fixtures using AI, aiming to reduce the time engineers spend on specific tasks.
• The goal is to have AI generate 80% of the fixture, with engineers finishing the final parts and validating the fixture.
• Scott and Chris discuss the potential of AI to improve efficiency and reduce costs in the manufacturing process.
• Chris emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and staying ahead of customer demands.

Conclusion and Contact Information

• Scott wraps up the conversation, expressing his excitement about the discussion and the potential of FX3D's solutions.
• Chris provides his contact information, encouraging listeners to reach out via LinkedIn or the FX3D website.
• Scott reiterates the importance of attending events like Fab Tech to meet industry professionals and explore innovative solutions.
• The podcast ends with Scott encouraging listeners to connect with him and the FX3D team to learn more about their offerings.