FoDES - Future of Design & Engineering Software

We explore how DraftAId automates mechanical drawings from 3D models, why focus beats hype in CAD AI, and how human-in-the-loop design keeps engineers in control. A live demo shows associative drawings in Inventor, and we preview cost estimation and an upcoming open version. • Drafting automation for mechanical fabrication • Lessons from YC to 175k+ drawings generated • AI hype versus real manufac...

We sit down with Brad Rothenberg of nTop to explore how implicit modeling and signed distance fields make computer models that are robust, physics-aware and ready for fast iteration. From aircraft wings to heat exchangers and turbine cooling, we show how fields, splines, and optimization unlock design spaces that B-reps can’t handle. • Why B‑rep models fail under topology changes  • How signed dis...

Shape3D demonstrated how CAD can feel as natural as drawing with a pencil on paper, while still handling complex product design with an iPad and the Apple Pencil. Shapr3D’s founder, István Csanády, has taken the company from its Apple roots to Windows, and by doing so is starting to be recognized by the market.  Join as István discusses: • Pain points with legacy CAD and steep learning curves • Or...

"Why do hardware teams still rely on brittle slides and spreadsheets?" asks Mai Bui, cofounder of Quarter20. "A CAD‑connected wiki can turn documentation into living, executable knowledge." Quarter20 shows auto-updating work instructions, technician analytics, and a cloud workflow that links design to the shop floor. • The boiling frog of legacy CAD tooling and manual documenta...

Maorr Farid, co-founder and CEO of Leo AI, shares how his company is revolutionizing mechanical engineering by creating the first AI that truly understands CAD. His mission is to transform engineers from "glorified secretaries" back into creative innovators by eliminating the tedious 85% of time they spend not actually designing. • Former Unit 8200 intelligence officer with a PhD from Te...