Where does 3D Printing stand in this digital transformation?
Considering the nature of traditional manufacturing, which is based on centralized mass production, 3D printing can make a big difference for companies trying to move into industry 4.0.
Together with the IIoT or Industrial Internet of Things, Big Data and other technological developments, 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, can be considered part of a complex framework for industry 4.0. Moreover, if we consider the benefits that additive manufacturing can provide to industries such as automotive, consumer electronics and medical, there is no doubt that 3D printing fits into industry 4.0 perfectly. Some of these benefits include, but are not limited to:
• Higher prototyping speeds: with the development of 3D printing technologies and materials, companies can have a prototype in minutes, making it easier to test different designs in short periods of time.
• Higher customization: thanks to the speed of current 3D printers, and the fact that only one machine is needed for the whole manufacturing process and materials are cheaper, mass customization is possible. This is an aspect that had been lost in many industries due to the utilization of mass production in order to reduce costs, and it is of great importance for the medical industry to manufacture prosthetics and other very personal products.
• Outsourced and onsite manufacturing: while many big companies may find 3D printing an affordable investment to have their own products, tools or spare parts manufactured onsite, smaller companies and even individuals may find some limitations. However, 3D printing prototype service providers can make it more affordable for those requiring a more “on-demand” alternative to cover the needs of specific projects.
Together with the IIoT or Industrial Internet of Things, Big Data and other technological developments, 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, can be considered part of a complex framework for industry 4.0. Moreover, if we consider the benefits that additive manufacturing can provide to industries such as automotive, consumer electronics and medical, there is no doubt that 3D printing fits into industry 4.0 perfectly. Some of these benefits include, but are not limited to:
• Higher prototyping speeds: with the development of 3D printing technologies and materials, companies can have a prototype in minutes, making it easier to test different designs in short periods of time.
• Higher customization: thanks to the speed of current 3D printers, and the fact that only one machine is needed for the whole manufacturing process and materials are cheaper, mass customization is possible. This is an aspect that had been lost in many industries due to the utilization of mass production in order to reduce costs, and it is of great importance for the medical industry to manufacture prosthetics and other very personal products.
• Outsourced and onsite manufacturing: while many big companies may find 3D printing an affordable investment to have their own products, tools or spare parts manufactured onsite, smaller companies and even individuals may find some limitations. However, 3D printing prototype service providers can make it more affordable for those requiring a more “on-demand” alternative to cover the needs of specific projects.
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