Summary

Additive manufacturing opens the door to designs that wouldn't be possible with traditional techniques. In this webinar, we'll discuss volumetric or 3D lattice structures and how we can use them in our designs that will be 3D printed.

You’ll discover what lattice structures are, how they work, and why they’re especially powerful when combined with 3D printing technologies like FDM, SLA, and powder bed fusion (SLS/MJF).

You’ll explore common lattice types including cubic, body-centred cubic, and triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) like the gyroid, along with how each performs mechanically. You’ll also learn how lattice structures can enhance thermal transfer, fluid flow, and impact absorption, making them ideal for motorsport applications such as lightweight structural parts, heat exchangers, and safety devices.

You’ll be introduced to how these structures are created in Fusion 360, including the software tools and extensions required. You’ll also gain insight into support requirements for different 3D printing methods, when structures can be self-supporting, and how to approach your designs for real-world printability. Finally, you’ll get a quick look at specialist tools like nTopology and how this area is rapidly evolving, although with a huge price tag.