Formnext in 3 Days: Why This Year Is Extra Special for Me

It’s hard to believe, but Formnext kicks off in just 3 days. For those who don’t know, Formnext is the global epicenter for Additive Manufacturing (AM) innovation—a place where you can literally feel the pulse of the industry. I had the chance to attend two years ago, and I left feeling energized and inspired by the rapid pace of development. Now, I’m back, and this time I have the honor of being a speaker and joining a panel discussion.

Why Formnext Matters (Especially This Year)

Being at Formnext two years ago was a game-changer for me. I got a front-row seat to some of the most cutting-edge technologies, met inspiring people, and left with a notebook full of ideas. It was one of those rare moments where you can feel the future unfolding right in front of you. Fast forward to now, and I’m thrilled to be on stage, sharing our journey at CY:ONS and how we’ve integrated 3D printing into our e-bike design process.

The industry moves at lightning speed, and what was groundbreaking two years ago has now evolved into even more sophisticated solutions. I’m excited to see what the next wave of innovation looks like and to share some of our own insights on how we’re pushing the envelope in product development.

My Talk and Panel Discussion: Let’s Dive Deep into AM Design

This year, I’ll be presenting on how we’ve harnessed 3D printing at CY:ONS to revolutionize the way we approach e-bike design. It’s not just about faster prototyping (though that’s a huge part of it). It’s about the freedom to explore complex geometries, optimize for strength, and create products that are lighter, smarter, and more efficient.

After my talk, I’ll be joining a panel discussion where we’ll dig into the nitty-gritty of designing for AM. We’ll cover everything from material selection and software integration to leveraging AI and optimizing for multifunctional capabilities. It’s going to be an open and honest discussion, streamed online for anyone who can’t make it in person.

Why I’m Excited (And You Should Be Too)

This isn’t just another speaking gig for me. It feels like a full-circle moment. I remember walking through the halls of Formnext two years ago, being blown away by the possibilities, and now I get to contribute to that same energy and inspiration for others. I’m eager to see how the industry has evolved, reconnect with old friends, and make some new ones along the way.

If you’re attending Formnext, I’d love to connect—whether it’s after my talk, during the panel, or just over a quick coffee. And if you can’t make it to Frankfurt, tune in to the live stream. Let’s keep the conversation going and continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in AM.

See you in Frankfurt (or online)! Let’s make this a memorable event.

Tim Grootjans