An Inside Look at 3D Printing Technology
CHARLOTTE, NC – 3D printing is here, but what could it mean for the industry?
Mike Nagle, Business Development Manager for Advanced Technology Systems will be a speaker at PMA’s upcoming technology event, Tech Talks, in Charlotte, North Carolina on February 4, 2015. He recently shared some of his insights with PMA’s Ashley Boucher about this emerging technology and its applications for the fresh produce industry.
“The 3D concept is there, and I actually think there is some opportunity for the produce world to learn from 3D printing, and I also think there’s an opportunity for 3D printing to learn form the produce industry,” he said.
Mike worked with a number of farm and food related companies, both from the farm and equipment side. He also worked for companies that are manufacturing seed-making equipment and automation companies making food, giving him a unique perspective on the industry.
He said that the industry is already using 3D printing for packaging in the prototyping and production phases of making the packaging itself. Speaking about the benefits 3D printing can give to companies, Mike says, “If there are design changes, if they want it to be greener with their design process and use the least amount of material as possible, 3D printing allows them to make a cheap tool and then be able to make a custom part based on the demand of the customer.”
Looking forward, Mike thinks that 3D printing will help lead to greater transparency, where there has previously been a bit of mystery surrounding the manufacturing processes. It will also allow for companies to receive immediate feedback from consumers and to make modifications and changes based on that information.
In his presentation at Tech Talks, Mike says that he wants to show attendees how companies are using the technology today and how it is helping them, because that is the key.
The PMA Tech Talks sets the stage for innovative thinking and groundbreaking ideas. It’s been designed to develop conversation and connections through powerful videos and presentations. For more information on the event, click here.
