Celebrating Creativity, Innovation, and Design Excellence in Manufacturing

October 2024 – The highly anticipated Autodesk Fusion Maker Design Competition has concluded with the announcement of its winner, Marina Johnson, an inspiring designer from Tabazimbi, South Africa. This competition, aimed at showcasing the potential of Autodesk Fusion among aspiring and professional makers, has attracted a variety of unique and innovative designs from across the country. The judging panel, consisting of Daneel Ballaram, Head of Manufacturing at Baker Baynes; Sahil Shivanand, Operations Director from Silver Solution; Henry Levine, CEO from Made in Workshop; and Dr Andrew Dickson, Engineering Executive at CBI-electric: low voltage, was particularly impressed with Marina’s submission for its ingenuity, functionality, and manufacturability.

The Autodesk Fusion Maker Design Competition challenged participants to conceptualise and design a functional, manufacturable product using Autodesk Fusion. Marina, a first-time Fusion user, rose to the occasion and submitted a portable power station design that captivated the judges. The competition required participants to demonstrate aesthetics, durability, sustainability, and the effective use of Autodesk Fusion features, which Marina executed with excellence.

Why Marina Johnson Stood Out

Marina’s design was praised for its sleek aesthetics, practicality, and efficient use of space, particularly in how she spaced the power cells to ensure proper ventilation.

The judges noted her design’s appeal and portability, with Sahil stating, “Marina’s design ticked all the boxes – strong, durable, aesthetically pleasing, and incredibly functional. It’s remarkable that she achieved this as a first-time Fusion user.”

From a manufacturing perspective, her clear and concise drawings made the design easily replicable using CNC cutting and other fabrication methods.

Henry, from Made in Workshop, remarked on the manufacturing potential, saying, “Her design’s flat panels are easy to manufacture, and the inclusion of USB slots and clear displays makes it a device that people can genuinely use and appreciate.”

In terms of durability, there were considerations for improvement, but the overall design’s strength and Marina’s attention to detail in areas like the placement of USB slots and electrical components received high praise. The rendering and colour choices added to the design’s visual appeal, further showcasing Marina’s intuitive grasp of the software.

A Journey of Growth and Opportunity

Marina’s journey to the competition stage is as inspiring as her design. After 14 years in the mining industry, Marina made the courageous decision to leave her career to spend more time with her family and start a small business. Despite stepping away from a technical environment, she maintained her passion for design, which ultimately led her to this competition.

Speaking about her experience, Marina shared, “I hadn’t touched a drawing office or computer in months, but the challenge of the Fusion competition reignited my love for design. This opportunity has been a true blessing, opening doors I never imagined possible.”

The competition has indeed opened new doors for Marina. Along with the prize of a high-spec laptop, sponsored by XITD Technology & Datacall, which will allow her to continue her design journey, Marina will receive specialised Autodesk Fusion training by Baker Baynes’s Manufacturing Specialists. This training will empower her to deepen her skills and explore new opportunities within the design and manufacturing industry. Additionally, Baker Baynes plans to showcase her winning design at a formal event in Johannesburg on 29 November 2024, where her creation will be brought to life through manufacturing.

The Future Ahead

Marina’s win is more than just a competition victory; it marks the beginning of a new chapter in her life. With her newfound tools, she plans to re-enter the design world, potentially launching her own draughting and design business from the comfort of her home. As she put it, “Now I have everything I need – this can put me back into the industry while allowing me to be present with my family.”

The Autodesk Fusion Maker Design Competition has not only elevated her profile but has also given her the opportunity to share her story and inspire others. Marina will be featured in an upcoming eBook created by Baker Baynes, detailing her journey and offering valuable insights for first-time Fusion users.

For more information on the Autodesk Fusion Maker Design Competition click here