AU 2024 OpenBOM Session Recording Available

It was a pleasure to be part of Autodesk University 2024. I presented on a subject I’m passionate about: Developing Connected Cloud Applications for CAD/BOM Using the Manufacturing Data Model API. Thank you to the AU team for a great event and a big shoutout to everyone who made this session possible. 

The AU this year took place at the iconic San Diego Convention Center. I love that building and attended multiple conferences there. The following picture speaks for itself. 

My class on How to Develop Connected Cloud Applications for CAD/BOM Using the Manufacturing Data Model API

The presentation centered on integrating OpenBOM with Autodesk Fusion, exploring Autodesk’s Manufacturing Data Model API, and demonstrating how Autodesk Platform Services (APS) and GraphQL data models provide a robust backbone for connected product development. Using real-world scenarios, I outlined how connected cloud applications can help teams collaborate more efficiently and navigate the increasingly complex landscape of CAD and BOM.

If you missed my session, you can still watch the recording here – Watch the full session. Here’s a quick outline of what attendees learned during the session:

Introduction to the Manufacturing Data Model API

We kicked off with an introduction to Autodesk’s Manufacturing Data Model API, focusing on its potential to create cloud-based applications that connect seamlessly with tools like Fusion 360. This overview highlighted the API’s core functionalities, including data management capabilities that make it easier to integrate engineering workflows in the cloud.

Building Cloud-Native Applications for CAD and BOM

Next, we explored how the Manufacturing Data Model API enables the development of cloud-native applications for efficient BOM management directly from CAD models. This section featured OpenBOM’s integration with Autodesk Platform Services, showing how we streamline BOM creation and synchronization, ensuring BOMs are always current and automatically updated as design changes happen.

Real-Time Collaboration Across Teams

Real-time collaboration was a major focus of the session. We discussed how the API supports data sharing across engineering, procurement, and manufacturing teams, allowing them to access the latest BOM data and derivative files instantly. Attendees learned how real-time data updates via the API help avoid the pitfalls of outdated information.

Managing Engineering Changes and Version Control

Engineering changes and version control are critical for CAD and BOM data management. This segment outlined how the API facilitates streamlined ECO processes and organizes change management so that everyone has access to the most up-to-date information, reducing errors and keeping project data in sync.

Creating Flexible BOM Views with xBOM

One exciting highlight was the concept of multiple BOMs (xBOM), showing how the API allows data extraction beyond a single BOM. We provided practical strategies for developing flexible, custom BOM views that cater to various needs across departments, supporting a more dynamic and detailed approach to product data.

Best Practices for API Integration and Development

Finally, we shared best practices for integrating the Manufacturing Data Model API into development workflows. Attendees took away practical examples and strategies for maintaining data integrity and handling complex engineering data, crucial for seamless app development and smooth collaboration across platforms.

Catch Up With Colleagues and Friends 

AU is an amazing place to catch up with many Autodesk friends and colleagues. The sessions, discussions, and deep dives throughout the convention made it an enriching experience. Here is just one – Chris Benner, always a pleasure to meet and talk! 

Beyond the convention center, the social scene in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter added an extra layer of connection and enjoyment.

Big Thank you to everyone who supported me during the preparation offsite, onsite, and during the presentation. I have to comment on the great idea from AU to put a speaker session integrated with the AU Expo Hall – great setup! 

I look forward to seeing where these connections and innovations lead in 2025!

In the meantime, you can REGISTER FOR FREE to OpenBOM and try everything I was speaking about during my session firsthand. 

Best, Oleg