Course Overview
This course focuses on designing and optimizing parts specifically for additive manufacturing. Students will learn design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) principles such as topology optimization and part consolidation. Using industry-standard CAD and simulation tools, learners will create efficient, lightweight, and high-performance components. The course emphasizes practical application through hands-on projects, preparing students to design parts that fully leverage the capabilities of 3D printing technologies.
Prerequisite(s)
- 70% in AMFG 4100
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Apply core Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) principles to optimize parts for additive manufacturing processes.
- Analyze and redesign components to take advantage of additive manufacturing capabilities, including complex geometries and part consolidation.
- Create and modify 3D CAD models suitable for additive manufacturing using industry-standard software such as ANSYS SpaceClaim and SolidWorks.
- Implement topology optimization techniques to reduce weight and improve the structural performance of components.
- Identify and minimize the need for support structures through effective design strategies and part orientation.
- Evaluate printability constraints, including overhangs, tolerances, surface finish, and build orientation.
- Select appropriate additive manufacturing processes and materials based on design requirements and application needs.
- Use simulation tools, including ANSYS, to assess mechanical performance and manufacturability of additively manufactured parts.
- Prepare and export optimized designs for additive manufacturing workflows, including file formats and build preparation.
- Apply slicing software tools (e.g., Cura and similar platforms) to generate toolpaths, configure print parameters, and prepare models for 3D printing.
- Assess the cost, efficiency, and scalability of additively manufactured designs compared to traditional manufacturing methods.
Effective as of Fall 2026
Related Programs
Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) (AMFG 4200) is offered as a part of the following programs:
School of Energy
- Applied Additive Manufacturing
Microcredential Part-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.