At Autodesk University, we were thrilled to announce the winners of the 2020 Autodesk Excellence Awards for Product Design & Manufacturing. These remarkable companies are redefining what's possible by pushing the limits of innovation and transforming traditional design and manufacturing processes. Through the use of cutting-edge technology, they're setting new standards and paving the way for the future.
INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR
Hyundai Motor Group New Horizons Studio, Mountain View, CA
Hyundai’s New Horizons Studio introduces a groundbreaking walking car concept
Image Courtesy of Hyundai Motor Group
A few years ago, Hyundai asked, “What if cars could walk?†That question has now become reality with the creation of Elevate — the world’s first “ultimate mobility vehicle.†This revolutionary concept can transform into a four-legged walking machine, enabling it to navigate terrains that traditional vehicles can't even dream of.
The New Horizons Studio at Hyundai used Autodesk generative design to develop lightweight yet durable legs capable of handling the torque from electric motors. The idea was born out of the need for reliable transportation in disaster zones, but its applications go far beyond emergencies. Elevate opens up new possibilities for exploration, adventure, and accessibility in ways never before imagined.
INDUSTRY DISRUPTOR
Briggs Automotive Company, Speke, Liverpool, UK
Creating the Ultimate Supercar with BAC Mono
Image Courtesy of BAC
Briggs Automotive Company is known for crafting the BAC Mono — a high-performance, street-legal race car weighing just over 570 kg. Their focus on weight reduction and performance optimization sets them apart in the automotive industry.
For the latest version of the Mono, BAC used generative design in Fusion 360 to create a new wheel. By defining performance parameters, materials, and fabrication methods, the team explored multiple design options. The result? A wheel that is 35% lighter than the previous model and still maintains the brand’s signature aesthetic. This advancement helped reduce the car’s total weight by 10.5 pounds, enhancing speed and efficiency.
ENGINEERING THE IMPOSSIBLE
Firefly Aerospace, Briggs, Texas
Building a 21st Century Aerospace Company
Image Courtesy of Firefly Aerospace
Firefly Aerospace is making waves in the aerospace industry, aiming to become one of the top players in the private space sector. Based near Austin, Texas, the company is led by CEO Tom Markusic and is preparing for the launch of Alpha, its small launch vehicle.
With engines producing 1 million horsepower — equivalent to 1,000 high-performance sports cars running simultaneously — Firefly is building rockets at an incredible pace. Using Autodesk Inventor and Vault, their engineers are able to work efficiently and collaborate seamlessly. With Alpha set to launch in late 2020, Firefly is proving that the future of space travel is here.
INDUSTRY COLLABORATION
Reynaers Aluminium, Duffel, Belgium
Streamlining Building Product Design Through Digital Transformation
Image Courtesy of Reynaers Aluminium
Reynaers Aluminium specializes in innovative aluminum systems for windows, doors, and curtain walls. With over 2,300 employees and operations in more than 70 countries, the company is constantly expanding.
To manage its vast product portfolio, Reynaers needed a digital solution. By integrating tools from Autodesk’s Product Design & Manufacturing Collection with other enterprise systems, they created a centralized platform for development and customer access. This transformation has streamlined workflows, reduced errors, and improved collaboration across teams.
MAKING A BETTER WORLD
The Ventilator Project, Boston, MA
Volunteers from around the globe unite to help solve the COVID-19 ventilator shortage
Image Courtesy of The Ventilator Project
In response to the global ventilator shortage during the pandemic, The Ventilator Project brought together volunteers from around the world to design a low-cost, scalable ventilator called “AIRA.†With rapid prototyping and feedback from medical professionals, the team developed a functional prototype in just weeks.
Using Autodesk Fusion 360, remote volunteers collaborated on the project, turning ideas into reality. Now, the team is awaiting FDA approval to begin mass production. Their efforts are a powerful example of how technology and teamwork can make a real difference in times of crisis.
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