Digital manufacturing is the use of computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and other software technologies to manufacture products more efficiently on a factory floor. In the digital manufacturing space, manufacturers are leveraging advanced software, analytics, and hardware technologies to reduce costs, improve quality and reduce lead times. This is creating new markets for 3D printing and other additive manufacturing technologies, as well as opening up new business opportunities for suppliers in the supply chain who can help with the digital transformation from CAD/CAM to digital production. For example, many designers are creating digital products using low cost 3D printers or service bureau suppliers. Manufacturers who have a great understanding of their end users’ needs may be able to leverage their supplier partners’ supply base to create customized products at lower cost than if they were procuring CAD designs from external vendors.
What is the difference between digital manufacturing and traditional manufacturing?
What is digital manufacturing? Digital manufacturing is the use of CAD, CAM, and other software technologies to manufacture products more efficiently on a factory floor. In the digital manufacturing space, manufacturers are leveraging advanced software, analytics, and hardware technologies to reduce costs, improve quality and reduce lead times. This is creating new markets for 3D printing and other additive manufacturing technologies, as well as opening up new business opportunities for suppliers in the supply chain who can help with the digital transformation from CAD/CAM to digital production. For example, many designers are creating digital products using low cost 3D printers or service bureau suppliers. Manufacturers who have a great understanding of their end users’ needs may be able to leverage their supplier partners’ supply base to create customized products at lower cost than if they were procuring CAD designs from external vendors.
Digital Manufacturing and the future of manufacturing
Manufacturing is in the midst of a transformation, driven by the need for better quality and more affordable products. This transformation is also being driven by data and the growing use of artificial intelligence. However, this transformation is happening at a time when many traditional industries, such as the automotive and consumer products segments, are experiencing growing challenges related to increased competition and more efficient alternatives. To ensure that manufacturers continue to thrive in these new environments, they will need to partner with their suppliers to stay ahead of the curve, using data and advanced technologies to drive change and create new business models.
Examples of digital manufacturing technologies in use today
There are many emerging technologies that are being used to take manufacturing to the next level. Manufacturers are using new software tools to create virtual prototypes or models that can be used to test new designs, design fixtures and production equipment, and provide metrics for automated production equipment. They’re also using virtual reality technology to create compelling and realistic virtual prototypes. In addition, manufacturers are using advanced robotics technology to create more accurate and intricate models that provide even more insight into product design and manufacturing.
How does digital manufacturing work?
Digital manufacturing starts with virtual models that are created using software tools. These virtual models can be used to test new designs, design fixtures and production equipment, and provide metrics for automated production equipment. With virtual models, engineers can visualize parts and simulate the performance of machines. They can also model motion, identify bottlenecks, and optimize production processes. Next, manufacturers use additive manufacturing technologies to create parts in a variety of materials. For example, they could use 3D printing to create parts made of metal or plastic. Some advanced 3D printers can create parts with a level of detail that is comparable to a milling machine.
Key challenges for digital manufacturing implementation
As the market for advanced manufacturing technologies continues to expand, manufacturers are finding that it’s not easy to make the change from traditional manufacturing to a more advanced digital model. There are a number of challenges that organizations need to consider when implementing a new digital manufacturing model. One challenge is cost. Simply replacing older, manual production equipment with automated alternatives could be expensive. Using cutting-edge technology to replace legacy equipment could also require significant upfront investment, forcing manufacturers to choose between the best technology for their business and keeping up with the latest technology trends. Another challenge manufacturers face is finding a reliable source of parts. As technologies continue to evolve and manufacturers explore new manufacturing models, they will need to find a reliable source of parts to help design and manufacture new products.
Benefits of digital manufacturing
With the right digital manufacturing partner, manufacturers can improve quality, reduce costs and gain insights into product design and manufacturing. Partnering with a supplier that can provide reliable parts, provide design modernization, and create virtual models, software, and simulations will help manufacturers redesign their processes, increase productivity, and predict future demand. By partnering with an automation partner, manufacturers can gain access to advanced machine control and feedback from automated production equipment. This control can help manufacturers make better decisions about what types of equipment to use, where to locate equipment, and how to configure the equipment for optimal performance.
How can organizations become more agile in the digital age?
To be more agile in the digital age, organizations need to review their business processes to see where automation could help to be more productive. This could be in design, downstream manufacturing, or upstream manufacturing. Once they have identified the areas that will benefit from automation, they can work with their suppliers to create virtual models that will provide reliable parts and design capabilities. Once they have designed and implemented their virtual models, they should monitor and report on their performance to ensure they’re getting the most out of these new technologies.
Summary
A manufacturing transformation is underway across industries, driven by the need for better quality and more affordable products. This transformation is also being driven by data and the growing use of artificial intelligence. However, this transformation is happening at a time when many traditional industries, such as the automotive and consumer products segments, are experiencing growing challenges related to increased competition and more efficient alternatives. To ensure that manufacturers continue to thrive in these new environments, they will need to partner with their suppliers to stay ahead of the curve, using data and advanced technologies to drive change and create new business models.