Hardware Podcasts

S6E12 Greg Mark | Founding Markforged & Backflip.ai

Being an Engineer · 21 Mar 2025 · 56m · Episode 12

AI in practice: one real use of AI described

What this episode covers

Greg Mark, founder of Markforged and Backflip.ai, discusses the mechanical robustness of Markforged 3D printers, highlighting their kinematic couplings and reliability in harsh environments like the US Navy and International Space Station. He explains how Backflip uses AI to convert 3D scans and STL files into editable CAD models, integrating directly with tools like SolidWorks to accelerate design workflows. Mark also shares entrepreneurial lessons on product focus, citing Markforged's initial decision to prioritize reliability over speed, and the importance of persistence in securing early opportunities.

AI in practice

Where this conversation describes AI being used to build or deliver a product. Part of the AI in practice tracker.

DesignBackflip.aigives you four options

The software analyzes an imported STL or scan in the cloud, generates four potential parametric design options, and allows the user to select one to be built directly within SolidWorks.

“And then we'll shoot it up to the cloud, okay, our GPUs analyze it all right, figure out what does the cat sequence make this part? And then we come down with four options, right? Because AI inherently has some variation, right? So we'll give you four options. What should these four options close to what you want?”

Greg Mark · Hear it at 28:14

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Markforged, Backflip, Genasun, Aeromotions
Products
Onyx, Mark Two
Tools
SolidWorks

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