3D printing provides designers and manufacturers with opportunities to learn and apply new technologies. Generative design and machine learning are two innovative technologies that are key to this opportunity.

With the popularization of digital manufacturing, CAD technology is also developing and updating. Now CAD software can be combined with virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) technology to support designers to superimpose any image generated by computer into real scene. Moreover, the operation of CAD software has become more simple and understandable, some of which are even designed for non-professional programmers. These trends are promoting the popularity of manufacturing, giving everyone with design creativity the opportunity to become a manufacturer.

Automated generative design software can support designers to quickly view parts design, and generate a variety of design arrangements based on data parameters such as selected materials, production methods and cost constraints. Autodesk, the leader of engineering design field, proposed that AI system can automatically generate a variety of high-performance product choices from a single design by applying generative design principles. This is very helpful for designers, because they can choose one of the hundreds of more designs generated by AI system to meet its important standards. In addition, the original three-dimensional design file can be directly connected to the 3D printer, calculate the precise material usage and quickly prototype construction to avoid waste.