Additive Manufacturing
Article | January 21, 2022
3D printing technology and its role in future manufacturing are grabbing the interest of industry experts. In terms of elevating future products, future additive manufacturing has a lot to offer the business. Additive manufacturing is developing and stretching its wings on a daily basis, becoming an integral part of every industry, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and more.
In this article, we'll shed some light on the 3D printing future trends, which will assist the business in deepening its impact across industries. Furthermore, we will explore whether the additive manufacturing business is worth investing in as well as who the major players are that have already invested in the future of 3D printing.
Future Trends in the Additive Manufacturing Industry
Enhanced Machine Connectivity
Making AM solutions (including software and hardware) easier to integrate and connect to the factory floor is one of the key AM trends we predict to advance in the coming years. It has been a long time since the AM hardware market has been filled with closed, or proprietary, systems. These systems generally function with materials and software given or approved by the machine OEM and are not easily integrated with third-party alternatives.
Closed systems are important for process dependability, but they also restrict collaboration and connectivity. Companies expanding their AM operations will need to connect their machines and software to their production environments. When it comes to additive manufacturing, using siloed solutions is a surefire way to fail. Importantly, we see hardware manufacturers increasingly focusing on solutions that can be integrated with the production floor.
For example, a 3D printing market leader like Stratasys is a good illustration of the trend. In December, the business announced an extension of its previously closed machines' connection.Consumers may now integrate and control their additive production using software programs of their choosing, not just Stratasys' systems. For AM facilities, system connectivity is no longer an option. It's exciting to see the AM industry players recognize and solve this requirement.
AM and AI Continue to Converge
AM growth is incorporating AI and machine learning. AI can help with material development, machine setup, part design, and workflow automation. So, in the future, we anticipate seeing more AI and AM technology integration.
Combined with AM systems, AI will improve process control and accuracy. For example, Inkbit is currently working on an AI-powered polymer vision system. This technology can scan 3D printing layers and anticipate material behavior during printing.
Generative design, already generally recognized as a key digital advance in AM, may tremendously benefit from AI and machine learning.
It has so far been utilized to improve load routes when strength and stiffness are dominant. It can also be utilized to optimize thermal or vibration. AI and machine learning will advance generative design, allowing new concepts to be completely suited to AM.While we may be a few years away from fully developing the capacity to automatically adapt designs to process, we anticipate significant breakthroughs this year that will bring us closer.
AM Will Drive Decentralization
In order to future-proof their supply chains, many manufacturers are following new supply chain models and technology that allow them to cut prices or switch goods more easily. Increasing flexibility and agility will necessitate distributed, localized production, assisted by additive manufacturing.To reduce the number of steps required to manufacture complex metal or polymer structures, shorten lead times, and enable digital inventory management, digital inventory management can be automated. These advantages make it ideal for the distributed manufacturing model. We believe that in the near future, more businesses will actively explore distributed manufacturing with AM.
According to a recent HP survey, 59% of organizations are now considering hybrid models, while 52% are looking into localized digital manufacturing.
3D Printing Future: Major Predictions
In Jabil's 2021 3D printing trends survey of over 300 decision-makers, 62% of participants claim their organization is actively using additive manufacturing for production of their product components, up from 27% in 2017. Many such manufacturers are on the lookout for the latest additive manufacturing trends and forecasts. So let's begin.
Increasing Flexibility and Customization
Customized goods are a popular consumer trend, impacting several sectors. Rather than buying a mass-produced item, customers are increasingly demanding a custom-made item that meets their specific needs.
Additive manufacturing's low-volume production capabilities simply enable personalization and customization.
3D printing allows for more responsive design options, particularly for additive manufacturing. Manufacturers can afford to make smaller batches, allowing designers and engineers to alter product ideas and develop them cost-effectively when inspiration strikes, the public mood is understood, or customer feedback drops in.
Materials Drive the Future of Digital
As the additive manufacturing ecosystem grows, the importance of materials cannot be overstated. Besides high equipment costs, materials and limited additive manufacturing ecosystems have hindered the 3D printing industry's growth. The market is flooded with 3D printing materials, but few are advanced enough to fulfill industry standards.Due to volume constraints in most sectors, suppliers and manufacturers aren't motivated to develop innovative materials for new uses. However, the future of 3D printing is in engineered and application-specific materials.
Various sectors have unique difficulties that demand unique solutions. New designed materials will revolutionize new uses, including highly regulated sectors. Industries will reward those who can promptly introduce 3D printing materials adapted to specific industrial and engineering needs. This will allow more 3D printing applications to be supplied and the whole digital manufacturing flywheel to start spinning.
3D Printing and a Sustainable Future
Finally, additive manufacturing promotes sustainability and conservation. Besides decreasing trash, 3D printing saves energy. The Metal Powder Industries Federation studied the difference between making truck gear using subtractive manufacturing (17 steps) and additive manufacturing (6 steps).
3D printing uses less than half the energy it takes to produce the same product. 3D printing also reduces the need for moving products and materials, reducing the amount of carbon emitted into the environment. So we can see that digital and additive solutions already contribute to a more sustainable future.
Is Investment in the Future of Additive Manufacturing Worth It?
In recent years, there has been an explosion of investment in industrial 3D printing. Hundreds of millions of dollars have flowed into the industry in recent years, assisting new businesses. Desktop Metal ($160 million), Markforged ($82 million), and 3D Hubs ($18 million) have all received significant funding in the past. According to a recent report and data analysis, the global additive manufacturing market will hit USD 26.68 billion by 2027. A rising level of government support for additive manufacturing across regions is driving market demand.
For example, America Makes, the foremost national initiative in the US since 2012 dedicated to additive manufacturing (3D printing future technology), received USD 90 million in support from the government, commercial, and non-profit sectors. Given the industry's expenditures and the expanding need for 3D printing, investing in the additive manufacturing industry or 3D printing is certainly encouraged.
Final Words
Additive manufacturing is being used in practically every industry, and companies are researching how technology might be used in their specific fields. The numerous advantages and sustainability that 3D printing provides are the major benefits that manufacturers and other industry professionals notice with 3D printing.Future manufacturing will be significantly more accurate and simple to run thanks to 3D printing technologies. Considering the trends and projections listed above, you may have a better understanding of 3D printing's future and make an informed investment decision.
FAQ
What is the future of 3D printing?
3D printing, or additive manufacturing, has the potential to empower everything from food to coral reefs. 3D printers may soon be seen in homes, companies, disaster zones, and perhaps even outer space.
Why is 3D printing important to society?
3D printing results in waste reduction and so eliminates the need for periodic waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. So it helps society with no carbon footprint.
Why is it known as additive manufacturing?
The term "additive manufacturing" refers to the fact that the building process adds layers rather than removes raw materials.
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3D Printing
Article | March 14, 2024
Unravel techniques to conquer 3D printing challenges. This piece reveals actionable solutions for 3D printing challenges, envisioning the progressive path forward for 3D printing innovation.
Contents
1. Deciphering 3D Printing’s Complex Landscape
2. The Challenges of Material Limitations
3. Cost Issues and Economic Viability
4. Inadequate Additive Manufacturing Infrastructure
5. Technical Hurdles
6. Workforce Skillgaps
7. Strategic Solutions for 3D Printing Challenges
8. 3D Printing’s Impact on Future of Manufacturing
1. Deciphering 3D Printing’s Complex Landscape
In the dynamic world of manufacturing, 3D printing shines as a beacon of innovation, offering boundless possibilities. However, akin to any revolutionary technology, it grapples with intricate challenges. This article delves into the multifaceted landscape of 3D printing, unraveling various 3D printing software challenges and presents strategic solutions for maneuvering through the additive manufacturing sector seamlessly.
At the forefront of advanced manufacturing, 3D printing commands attention with its unique approach to crafting intricate designs layer by layer. But the question is what is the future direction of 3D printing? And can manufacturers fully answer that without understanding the technical issues in additive manufacturing or common 3D printing problems? To truly comprehend and harness its potential, let’s answer a common yet important question, ‘what are the most common challenges of 3d printing’ and uncover solutions for 3D printing challenges.
The journey begins with an in-depth understanding of 3D printing software, a crucial facilitator translating 3D models into printer-understandable data. Commonly known as slicer software, it dissects models into sections, enabling printers to create objects slice by slice. Used in makerspaces and creative studios, this software plays a pivotal role in the 3D printing process, often collaborating with other design and CAD software. Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes, contrary to subtractive methods, involve adding material until the product is complete. As researchers explore the possibilities of manufacturing with minimal material waste, 3D printing emerges as a viable solution, capable of producing complex and custom objects. The past year witnessed companies leveraging 3D printing to decentralize production, fostering a flexible, resilient, and sustainable supply chain. As of 2023, the 3D printing market size was reported to be $23.2 billion, with a projected compound annual growth rate exceeding 22% from 2022 to 2026. Future trends in 3D printing suggest that the software segment within the industry is anticipated to demonstrate a compounded annual growth of 20% during the period spanning 2022 to 2026. This category encompasses diverse applications and 3D printing software solutions integral to the additive manufacturing processes.
From revolutionizing practices in healthcare, aerospace, automotive and mobility to saving lives with precise 3D-printed models in the medical field, the impact of 3D printing resonates across diverse industries. Despite its advantages, 3D printing presents challenges such as material selection, printing speeds, and accuracy. This article explores 3D printing challenges with a thorough analysis of 3D printing and provides strategic approaches to 3D printing issues to fully experience advancements in additive manufacturing technology.
2. The Challenges of Material Limitations
3D printing is seeing noble innovations across variegated industries, yet challenges persist, particularly concerning material limitations. These challenges encompass a range of issues that impact the effectiveness and versatility of 3D printing technologies. Here, we delve into common 3D printing material limitations:
2.1 Limited Variety of Available Materials
The range of materials suitable for 3D printing is still relatively narrow compared to traditional manufacturing methods. Predominantly, thermoplastics like ABS, PLA, and PETG are used due to their affordability and availability. However, these materials may not meet the requirements for specific applications due to limitations in their mechanical properties and durability. This restriction impacts industries requiring specialized materials, like aerospace and healthcare, where the material's performance is critical. Also, not all plastics or metals can be sufficiently heated or cooled to support 3D printing. In addition, many of the materials cannot be recycled and very few are food safe.
2.2 Inconsistencies in Material Properties
There's a significant gap in the material properties of 3D printed objects compared to those produced by conventional manufacturing. For example, 3D printed ABS plastic exhibits different impact resistance characteristics compared to ABS plastic produced through micro machining or injection molding. This variability leads to challenges in ensuring consistency and reliability, especially in industries like automotive and aerospace, where material performance is non-negotiable. Companies like BASF, Arkema, and DuPont are developing materials such as carbon-reinforced polymers, offering strengths comparable to metals. Markforged's introduction of Onyx FR, a flame-retardant composite, exemplifies such advancements. Yet, these innovations are hindered by material inconsistencies, which challenge the repeatability and reliability of 3D printing.
2.3 Limited Material Development and Database
The challenge of limited material development and database in the 3D printing industry is multi-faceted. The absence of a comprehensive database that details the printing parameters and specifications of various materials hinders the development of a consistent and repeatable 3D printing process. The industry is in need of a robust database that includes information on mechanical and thermal properties, along with specifications for successful printing, to standardize materials for specific applications and increase the reliability of 3D printing as a manufacturing technique. The slow pace of material development and the lack of a comprehensive database have delayed a wider adoption of 3D printing technology.
2.4 High Material Costs and Limited Selection
As of 2024, the economic environment of the 3D printing sector has been significantly affected by disruptions in the supply chain and escalating inflation, resulting in heightened costs and production delays for key materials such as metals and resins. The material costs in 3D printing vary widely depending on the type of material and its applications. For instance, standard PETG costs between $20 to $60 per 1 KG spool, while TPU, known for its flexibility and durability, ranges from $40 to $100 per 1 KG spool. ABS, a popular choice for strength and temperature resistance in FDM 3D printing, ranges from $15 to $20 per kilogram. Comparatively, Nylon, with its flexibility and chemical resistance, is priced higher, ranging from $50 to $73 per kilogram. Polycarbonate, known for its strength and good electrical insulation properties, varies significantly in price, ranging from $30 to $93 per kilogram.
2.5 Material Suitability for Complex Applications
3D printing faces challenges in developing materials that are suitable for complex and high-performance applications. This includes sectors like biomedicine, where materials need to meet specific standards for safety and efficacy. The technology's potential in creating parts with high complexity and functionality across mechanical, biological, and electrical domains is hindered by the limited choice of materials that meet the stringent requirements of these fields. The challenge of seamlessly combining various materials with differing properties into a unified, high-definition 3D printing process continues to be a significant hurdle.
3. Cost Issues and Economic Viability
For organizations contemplating the integration of additive manufacturing, understanding and managing 3D printing cost issues is crucial. A notable challenge in the adoption of AM at an operational level is the lack of established business and cost-calculation models based on AM technology. This absence of precedent can make it difficult for buyers to accurately assess and plan for the full range of costs associated with implementing and maintaining 3D printing technology in their operations.
3.1 Cost Challenges in Different Sectors
Identifying prospects for additive manufacturing reveals that different industries encounter distinct challenges with 3D printing. Different industries face varying challenges when it comes to 3D printing. For instance, the consumer electronics, heavy equipment, and industrial machines industries primarily struggle with the cost of pre- and post-processing. In contrast, healthcare, automotive, and packaging industries grapple with limited material selection. These sector-specific challenges underline the complexity of cost issues in 3D printing. Also, for significant returns on investment in 3D printing software, buyers need to maintain a consistent and ample flow of 3D printing projects.
3.2 Adoption and Utilization Rates
There's evidence suggesting a slower adoption rate of new 3D printing technologies than anticipated. This trend affects the industry’s profit-making ability, as even major players like Shapeways, Velo3D, Stratasys, and Markforged have faced financial instability, indicating difficulties in achieving profitability. The 3D printing sector recently experienced a dip in investor trust, a reflection of the performance of its publicly traded companies. This decline in investor confidence underscores the need for the sector to prove its ability to sustain demand, beating diverse 3D printing’s financial challenges in order to achieve long-term profitability.
3.3 Maintenance and Supply Chain Concerns
As 3D printing technology continues to advance, equipment breakdowns can still occur, necessitating regular maintenance. These maintenance needs and the associated downtime can represent significant expenses, often a concern for investors. Additionally, lingering supply chain issues may require keeping essential parts in stock, leading to increased inventory carrying costs. Another cost factor is post-processing, which almost all 3D printed parts require. This stage of production often involves additional labor, adding to the overhead costs for each unit produced.
4. Inadequate Additive Manufacturing Infrastructure
Inadequate infrastructure stands as a significant barrier, impeding the efficient management of 3D printing operations in numerous companies. The substantial financial outlay for software, materials, training, and facility setup poses a significant barrier, despite the potential benefits of AM. Inefficiencies and errors during the production process emerge due to the lack of integration. Collaborative efforts with AM hardware and software providers can lead to integrated solutions, streamlining workflows and enhancing user experience. Let’s understand infrastructure challenges in 3D printing in greater detail:
4.1 Limited Digital Infrastructure
Insufficient digital infrastructure hampers the efficient management of 3D printing operations in many companies. This deficiency spans across various software aspects, including design, simulation, process optimization, and production management. As a result, workflows become disjointed, leading to inefficiencies and increased production costs. To tackle this challenge, businesses need to invest in specialized workflow management software tailored for 3D printing operations. Such software enables centralized production planning, better traceability, and data synchronization between systems, simplifying the integration of 3D printing into digital manufacturing environments.
4.2 High Initial Investment
The adoption of additive manufacturing (AM) requires substantial financial resources beyond equipment acquisition. This encompasses investment in software, materials, employee training, post-processing equipment, certification, and facility setup. The significant upfront investment often discourages organizations from embracing AM technology, despite its potential benefits. However, efforts are underway to make AM more accessible, with the development of entry-level 3D printers at a fraction of the cost of high-end systems. These initiatives aim to democratize AM technology and make it more feasible for businesses to invest in.
4.3 Workflow Integration Issues
The fragmented nature of the AM ecosystem poses challenges in workflow integration. Companies struggle to navigate disparate solutions and synchronize them effectively. This lack of integration leads to inefficiencies, operational complexity, and higher chances of errors during the production process. To address this, companies are collaborating with AM hardware and software providers to develop integrated solutions that streamline workflows and enhance user experience to deal with common challenges in additive manufacturing. Additionally, efforts to consolidate the AM value chain are underway, aiming to simplify the adoption of AM technology.
5. Technical Hurdles
As enthusiasts and professionals alike delve deeper into this captivating technology, encountering common technical issues is inevitable. Let’s understand the most prevalent problems encountered in both FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and SLA (Stereolithography) 3D printing processes, and get equipped with the knowledge and solutions needed to transcend obstacles and achieve printing perfection.
5.1 FDM Printing Inconsistencies
Inconsistent layer adhesion manifests as visible seams or weak bonds between layers, compromising the structural integrity of prints. Warping and curling occur when corners or edges of prints lift from the print bed, resulting in misshapen or failed prints. Also, extrusion problems, such as under-extrusion or over-extrusion, lead to incomplete or excessive deposition of filament, resulting in flawed prints.
5.2 SLA Printing Concerns
Incomplete curing of resin results in soft, tacky prints with poor surface finish and reduced mechanical strength. Delamination can also happen when layers of a 3D print fail to adhere properly, resulting in visible cracks or separation between the printed layers. Various causes like inadequate bonding between layers due to improper print settings, insufficient material compatibility, inadequate surface preparation, or variations in temperature during printing resulting in differential cooling rates between layers can exacerbate adhesion issues and promote delamination.
5.3 Production Speed
One of the primary reasons behind the slower production speed in 3D printing is the layer-by-layer additive manufacturing process. Unlike subtractive manufacturing techniques that can rapidly carve out a final product from a block of material, 3D printing builds objects layer by layer, which inherently takes more time. Additionally, factors such as intricate geometries, print resolution, and material properties can further slow down the printing process.
5.4 Streamlining Post-Production
Post-processing activities, including cleaning, finishing, and support removal, present intricate obstacles that impede efficiency and elevate costs. One critical aspect of post-production in 3D printing is the removal of support structures. While necessary for printing complex geometries, these structures often leave behind residues that require meticulous manual labor to eliminate. Such manual intervention not only prolongs lead times but also escalates production costs, diminishing the cost-effectiveness of additive manufacturing. Moreover, achieving the desired surface finish on 3D printed parts poses another challenge in post-processing. Depending on the application, parts may require smoothing, polishing, or coating to meet quality standards. Manual finishing techniques are time-consuming and labor-intensive, demanding skilled personnel and specialized equipment.
5.5 Quality Concerns
Quality discrepancies in 3D printed parts can have far-reaching consequences, manifesting as functional defects, structural weaknesses, and compromised performance. These issues not only erode product integrity but also escalate the risk of product failure, liability, and associated costs. Additionally, inconsistent quality presents hurdles in regulatory compliance and certification processes, impeding market acceptance and scalability. Notably, issues stemming from bad filament quality, be it due to variations in diameter or length, result in dismal material extrusion rates, yielding substandard 3D prints with potential business ramifications. Such discrepancies can wreak havoc on hardware, especially the extruder, where thin filament leads to inadequate pressure and wide filament strains the extruder motor or hot end opening, thereby jeopardizing 3D printer functionality and print quality.
6. Workforce Skillgaps
One of the primary facets of 3D printing workforce skills gap revolves around technical proficiency. Mastery of CAD software, for instance, is paramount for effective 3D modeling and design. Additionally, expertise in slicing software, which translates 3D models into printable instructions, is essential. Understanding the intricacies of various printing materials is crucial for successful 3D printing operations. Workforce skill gaps must be addressed to realize the full potential of 3D printing.
6.1 Complexity of AM Processes
3D printing involves complex processes such as design optimization to fuel innovation easily with additive manufacturing techniques, material selection, and machine operation. Business leaders must recognize the technical nuances of AM and invest in comprehensive training programs to equip their resources with the necessary skills. Skills in digital design, CAD modeling, materials science, and additive manufacturing principles are essential for effective utilization of 3D printing.
6.2 Integration with Existing Workflows
Integrating 3D printing into existing manufacturing workflows requires a deep understanding of production processes and supply chain dynamics. Cross-functional collaboration and interdisciplinary training can ensure alignment between 3D printing initiatives and organizational objectives. Also, skill gaps may emerge as new materials, processes, and applications are introduced, requiring proactive measures to stay abreast of industry developments. Engaging with industry experts, research institutions, and educational organizations can provide valuable insights and resources for skill development
7. Strategic Solutions for 3D Printing Challenges
Despite 3D printing software challenges, the industry is evolving rapidly, with advancements in technology, materials, and automation. Efforts to bridge knowledge gaps and foster partnerships indicate a promising future for the industry. Companies are actively investing in research and development to overcome existing limitations and unlock the full potential of additive manufacturing.
Following are some precise solutions for diverse 3D printing challenges:
7.1 Technical Hurdles
Technical challenges in 3D printing are akin to solving a multidimensional puzzle where each piece represents a variable in printing precision, software compatibility, and hardware reliability. Overcoming these challenges is critical for advancing the capabilities of additive manufacturing. These difficulties serve as both a barrier and a catalyst for growth. Addressing them requires a deep dive into the complex interplay between software settings, material behavior, and printer mechanics.
7.2 Material Challenges
Material constraints in 3D printing span beyond just availability, touching on aspects of cost, performance, and environmental impact. These can restrict 3D printing's application across various industries. Bridging this gap involves exploring new material compositions and enhancing existing ones to meet specific requirements. The quest for the perfect print material parallels the search for the holy grail in 3D printing.
7.3 Financial Challenges
Securing the financial foundations of 3D printing projects is a daunting challenge that requires a delicate balance between innovation, cost-efficiency, and market demand. Overcoming these obstacles is key to the technology's broader adoption. These hurdles underscore the importance of efficient cost management and investment in innovation. Strategic financial management leads to sustainable business growth with 3D printing processes.
7.4 Infrastructural Issues
Infrastructural challenges in 3D printing, including inadequate digital frameworks as well as integration issues, highlight the need for cohesive systems that streamline the entire manufacturing process from design to production. Building robust infrastructures is crucial for operational excellence. This includes the development of advanced digital ecosystems and the integration of seamless workflows.
7.5 Quality Problems
Quality-related challenges in 3D printing, such as inconsistencies in part strength and surface finish, underscore the necessity for stringent quality control measures and continuous technological refinement. Achieving high-quality outputs in 3D printing is a multifaceted challenge that demands attention to detail in every aspect of the printing process, from material selection to post-processing techniques.
7.6 Skill Gaps
Bridging the skills gap in 3D printing involves addressing the shortage of technical proficiency and fostering an environment of continuous learning and innovation within the workforce. The rapid evolution of 3D printing technology presents this formidable challenge of keeping the workforce adept and well-versed in the latest techniques, necessitating ongoing education and skill development through training programs.
8. 3D Printing's Impact on Future of Manufacturing
3D printing, a transformative force in manufacturing, is reshaping the industry by offering unparalleled efficiency, sustainability, and the potential for customization. This technology is making significant strides, especially in sectors like housing and construction, with innovations from startups such as Tvasta, and extending its influence to the electronics sector through the creation of complex, customized components. The adaptability and cost-effectiveness of 3D printing promises to revolutionize manufacturing processes, moving toward more personalized and customized production, thereby enhancing product quality and fostering innovation in design.
However, the journey of 3D printing toward becoming a cornerstone of future manufacturing is not without 3D printing software challenges. These hurdles encompass a range of technical challenges in 3D printing, from 3D printing material limitations to skill gap challenges in additive manufacturing. Addressing these common challenges in additive manufacturing require a methodical plan to find strategic solutions for 3D printing challenges.
Looking into the future of 3D printing technology, it's clear that despite 3D printing problems and solutions, the industry is poised for growth, driven by advance 3D printing technology and an innovative approach to overcoming 3D printing challenges. The opportunities and challenges of 3D printing highlight the need for continuous learning, cross-sector collaboration, and investment in technology development to surmount cost challenges in additive manufacturing and material limitations.
As we anticipate 3D printing in the coming year, it's crucial to address the biggest challenges within 3D printing processes, which point towards the necessity for industry-wide efforts to address 3D printing issues and ensure a sustainable, efficient future for manufacturing. The potential intellectual property challenges underscore the complexity of 3D printing's impact on future manufacturing. The ease of reproducing protected intellectual property through 3D printing calls for safeguarding companies' interests and ensuring the integrity of the supply chain and product quality. Licensing opportunities present a way forward, aligning production with demand and potentially reducing costs.
In summary, while 3D printing's impact on future manufacturing is profound, successfully navigating its path requires addressing both the primary and secondary challenges it presents. Embracing strategic solutions to these challenges will enable the industry to unlock the full potential of 3D printing, marking a new era of manufacturing characterized by efficiency, customization, and innovation.
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IoT
Article | July 14, 2022
Projects must be carefully planned to reflect your company's opportunities and needs, and they must be structured so that projects can quickly generate enough value to justify scaling up. However, planning is pointless without an Ilot platform to carry out the strategy.
Industrial Connectivity:
An Ilot platform with standardized connectivity significantly simplifies this process, allowing businesses to focus on IoT architectures and solutions that provide the most value. A true enterprise Ilot platform will also bridge the often-occurring gap between IT and OT data, enabling workflows and solutions that span the entire organization, from engineering and production to sales, fulfilment, and service.
Application Building:
With few exceptions, industrial manufacturers are not in the software development business. An Ilot platform must provide a setting that reduces the technical expertise required to develop applications. True loT platforms will also enable advanced developers to create and integrate more personalized applications.
Managing and Orchestration:
Connecting to industrial assets has been a barrier to industrial IoT architectures, but administration, automation, and management of these assets can be just as difficult. An Ilot platform must support a high level of management for various roles and responsibilities, such as control engineers and factory managers, as well as DevOps and service technicians.
Data Analytics:
In the absence of strong analytics capabilities, the architecture of IoT lacks the ability to provide meaningful data and insights. With data volumes measured in petabytes at times, analytics is critical for extracting meaningful data and performing data-driven trend analysis. These capabilities, in turn, enable waste and scrap reduction, increased available uptime, and the prevention of unplanned downtime.
Optimized Experiences:
Humans are ultimately called upon to provide critical thinking and frontline action for all of the automation and analytics that are performed. With the ability to overlay step-by-step instructions and guidance onto physical equipment in the plant and on the field, industrial augmented reality (AR) is already transforming manufacturing and service. True enterprise Ilot platforms offer seamless support for AR solutions, supplying these augmented views with real-time performance and status data to further enhance the user experience.
Selecting a Lot Platform on the Basis of Capabilities:
Not all Ilot platforms are created equal. Many platforms prioritize certain capabilities over others, with only a few addressing the full range of functionality. IoT platforms are also a significant investment; their success can determine the pace and direction of an IoT strategy for many years. A good decision can result in millions of dollars in bottom-line savings and top-line growth; a bad decision can result in stalled pilots and scrapped plans.
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