New 3D Modeling Tool and Alliances Focus on the Maker in Everyone

SAN RAFAEL, Calif. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — May 19, 2011 — Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADSK), announced Autodesk 123D software — a free* Windows-based 3D modeling application for makers combined with content and services — is now available in a public beta release for download by makers.

Autodesk 123D -- a free 3D modeling application combined with content and services to help get designs made -- is now available. (Photo: Business Wire)

With Autodesk 123D, anyone can explore, learn and create highly precise 3D models. Makers can bring ideas to reality by combining powerful digital design with services for creating physical objects. From both within the application and through the 123D website, individuals can discover and download content to start, complete or visualize a project, and then access for-purchase personal fabrication services through Autodesk 123D partners. Makers can also purchase pre-fabricated products to explore 3D printing or assemble models from 2D laser cut materials like cardboard—the first of a variety of custom fabrication options coming soon to Autodesk123D.

“The reality is most people don’t know how to design in 3D, nor do they know how to get their designs made,” said Samir Hanna, vice president of Consumer Products at Autodesk. “With our long history of making design accessible for professionals, Autodesk is uniquely positioned to bring 3D design to everyone in a way that’s fun and unlocks the maker in us all. We intend to grow the 123D site into a single destination for individuals to make their designs and share them with the world for fun, learning or profit.”

“123D has an intuitive and logical, simple user interface,” said Philippe Drouant, maker. “Its 3D modeling environment is different than anything I have tried before.”

Autodesk Partners Help Individuals Get Unique Designs Made

Autodesk 123D users can print their designs on a 3D printer or use the for-purchase personal fabrication services featured on the Make It link in the application. To supply these services, Autodesk forged alliances with new partners that have extensive experience providing the maker community with the ability to create a unique project at home or to have it fabricated elsewhere and shipped. Partners currently include:

• 3D Systems — A leading provider of 3D content-to-print solutions and custom parts services supplies 3D printers to Autodesk123D users who want to make things in their own garage, shop or school.
• Ponoko — This online service for manufacturing connects Autodesk123D users to various personal fabrication outlets. Ponoko’s Personal Factory platform gives creators local access to specialized fabrication methods and a range of materials to turn 123D digital creations into physical things.
• TechShop — A membership based do-it-yourself workshop where entrepreneurs, artists, inventors and other makers go to bring their ideas to life. Autodesk already supplies TechShop members at locations around the United States with software and training resources, and now Autodesk 123D users can access computer numerical control (CNC) milling machines, welders, table saws, drill presses, laser cutters, industrial sewing and textile equipment and 3D printers on-site at TechShop.

Availability

Autodesk 123D public beta software is available for free* download from www.123Dapp.com for Windows PCs.

About Autodesk

Autodesk, Inc., is a leader in 3D design, engineering and entertainment software. Customers across the manufacturing, architecture, building, construction, and media and entertainment industries -- including the last 16 Academy Award winners for Best Visual Effects -- use Autodesk software to design, visualize and simulate their ideas. Since its introduction of AutoCAD software in 1982, Autodesk continues to develop the broadest portfolio of state-of-the-art software for global markets. For additional information about Autodesk, visit www.autodesk.com.

Editorial note: Follow Autodesk 123D on Facebook, YouTube, or watch a video featuring Carl Bass, Autodesk president and chief executive officer, discussing 123D.

*Free products are subject to the terms and conditions of the end-user license and services agreement that accompanies the software.

Autodesk, AutoCAD and Autodesk 123D are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. Academy Award is a registered trademark of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Autodesk reserves the right to alter product and services offerings, and specifications and pricing at any time without notice, and is not responsible for typographical or graphical errors that may appear in this document.