Digital fabrication is no longer the future, it is the present. For those unaware, digital fabrication “is a type of manufacturing process where the machine used is controlled by a computer. The most common forms of digital fabrication are: CNC Machining: where, typically, shapes are cut out of wooden sheets — this is the main technology used by OpenDesk products at the moment.” In addition to digital fabrication, 3D printing digital prototyping, can help automatize many process once considered long and expensive.
Josh Worley, lead designer for Opendesk, explains the new technology stating that “Digital fabrication technologies allow small independent manufacturers to automate/ semi-automated the production of complex parts that would have previously only been possible via traditional hand-tooling or more costly, inaccessible batch/ mass production tooling.”
Currently with digital fabrication many small manufacturers are seeing a cheaper and more efficient process. The technology is less expensive and decreases the amount of time for preparation and intricate techniques. In addition, because “digital fabrication tools such as CNC routers (used across the Opendesk maker network) and 3D printers all run in fundamentally the same way, it’s easy to transfer manufacturing files without costly, time consuming production drawings.” As such a standardization is taking place allowing for easier to expand technology and manufacturing practices.
Digital fabrication is only increasing and this new process is breaking down barriers of entry and allowing more companies to take part in the manufacturing industry.