Dassault Systèmes, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, world leader in 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions today announced a partnership with Safran Group, a leading international high-technology group in aerospace, defense and security, to develop expertise in the virtual validation of the additive manufacturing process using Dassault Systèmes' 3DEXPERIENCE platform.

Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing in other industries, uses computer-aided design, engineering, manufacturing and materials science software (CAD/CAE/CAM/CAMS) to create 3D models of parts and subsystems that are then built using successive layers of materials. The effective use of this manufacturing process in the aviation industry can enhance production times as well as product performance in terms of strength, weight and environmental impact—improvements that are impossible to obtain with traditional methods.

The partnership combines Dassault Systèmes' 3DEXPERIENCE platform with Safran's expertise in innovative technologies, for the development of a world-class, end-to-end digital solution for additive manufacturing. This new end-to-end process will address upstream material design and downstream manufacturing processes and testing to provide digital continuity for all engineering parameters necessary for the additive manufacturing of an engine part: material science, functional specification, generative design, 3D printing optimization, multi-robotic production and certification.

“Dassault Systèmes' long history of collaboration with Safran is now taking on a new dimension to embrace and integrate new materials and methods of engineering, production and maintenance that will significantly impact the aviation industry,” said Dominique Florack, Senior Executive Vice President, Research & Development, Dassault Systèmes. “Our 3DEXPERIENCE platform's strategy covers all aspects of the additive manufacturing process, from material design to conceptual design, generative design to manufacturing, and certification to repair. Together with Safran, we can nurture virtual world processes for a complete approach in this field that will help revolutionize tomorrow's manufacturing.”

“Research and technology is a fundamental part of Safran, allowing us to drive continuous improvements for safer and more environmental-friendly air travel,” said Pierre Fabre, Senior Executive Vice President R&T, Innovation, Safran. “Safran is currently leading the field in using 3D printing technology to manufacture its engines. By pooling expertise with Dassault Systèmes and its 3DEXPERIENCE platform, we can accelerate the innovation process and better meet customers' needs.”