Development of the manufacturing platform

In the digital revolution of manufacturing, the trend toward platforms is considered inevitable.
Under these circumstances, the platformization of subcontracted machining is currently underway. While there are some examples which is not a real process transformation through digitalization at this point in time, it is a steady step towards future transformation.

Examples in Japan

Nikkei XTECH reports on the situation in Japan in a special feature article titled “Ordering Machine Processing on the Internet, No Hassle” (paid article).
In the article, the Nikkei XTECH reported on the situation in Japan.
It is a service that allows users to register a 3D model or drawing, and then immediately provide an estimate for processing, or match them with a factory that will process the model.
For users (companies that place orders), the advantages of this service are that, as with online shopping, it is generally inexpensive, with short delivery times and simple ordering procedures.
At the same time, the factories (companies receiving orders) that accept orders also benefit from this service, as it makes it easier to find new customers, increases orders and stabilizes business, reduces the amount of time and risk involved in collecting payments, and stabilizes cash flow. This is an ‘eco-system’ type of business, in which there are mutual benefits for both the client and the order-taker and, as a result, the platformer also benefits.

The article cites examples from meviy, CADDi, Kabuku Connect, Factory Agent, NTT Com+PwCC, and NTT Docomo.
Each of these are unique in their processes, the types of parts they cover, etc., and vary in the level of digitization and the extent of automation through AI and other means.
This reflects the fact that 3D models and attribute information are currently insufficient for communicating orders, and in reality, 2D drawings and direct communication are often required in many cases.
Therefore, the future standardization of 3D drawings and attribute information will lead to a higher level of automation and quality improvement.

Examples of Overseas

On the other hand, in other countries, where 3D design and data standardization are more advanced than in Japan, and where digitalization of business is more advanced, this is already a big business. Meviy, cited avobe, is using the platform of Proto Labs, one of the world’s major players.
Xometry is also one of the biggest players. They acquired Shift in Germany last year. With this acquisition, Xometry now claims a global network of more than 5,000 manufacturers in 22 countries.
The company has a variety of manufacturing options through its network, including additive manufacturing, injection molding, CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and urethane casting. These are manufactured by the “global network of over 5,000 manufacturers” mentioned above.

Integration with the design process

While discussed outsourcing of machining above, there is also increasing integration within the overall design process.
For example, Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE Marketplace | Make, which offers access to more than 180 certified service providers directly from SOLIDWORKS and CATIA using add-ins. These include Proto Labs and Xometry, mentioned above.

As virtual engineering progresses, 3D modeling becomes more widespread, and various attribute information becomes more standardized, the automation of processes using platforms and AI will continue to grow.
In order to remain globally competitive, industrial companies need to assess the future direction of their business and first utilize current services that are compatible with their own, as well as continue to work on new technologies for the future.

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