May - 20218 MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY INSIGHTS3D Printing Supercharges InnovationBy Andy Shang, Vice President of Engineering at Gold Medal Products Co.How does 3D printing benefit the manufacturing industry? There are many different tangible advantages of investing in this technology. Still, for the engineering department at Gold Medal Products Co., 3D printing has been a driving force behind fueling innovations in product development.Gold Medal is considered the global leader in the concession food equipment and supplies industry. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Gold Medal has an extensive history of success dating back to 1931. The company is known for over a dozen product lines, including popcorn, cotton candy, frozen treats, and more.Transforming Ideas into RealityThe ability to innovate is critical in the food equipment category. Moving from ideation to vetted commercial products that are ready to market is more important than ever. 3D printing has revolutionized that process by providing the technology that not only pushes both creativity and strategy, and it also helps to reduce development risks.In a highly competitive marketplace, accelerating speed to market is essential. Yet, many attempts to do so at the cost of quality. By incorporating 3D printing, we can take concepts and translate them into a physical representation to present in front of key decision-makers. The speed of 3D printing and the cost of entry give engineers the ability to take chances and think Andy ShangIN MY OPINION
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