Distributed manufacturing—or manufacturing performed in a geographically dispersed manner, at small scales, close to the end user—is not a new concept. It can be traced back to before the First Industrial Revolution. But it has gained renewed attention thanks to advances in Industry 4.0 technology and a variety of socio-economic shifts. Advances in information and communication technologies are driving Industry 4.0, making it possible to network people and resources dispersed all over the world. Changes in individual customer tastes has ushered in mass customization. Trade wars and de-globalization sentiments are making supply chains fragile. And, in the aftermath of COVID, persisting supply chain issues are putting more pressure on companies to diversify. Distributed manufacturing allows for faster turnaround, supply chain resiliency, greater flexibility, and environmental sustainability, all while fostering local economies and creating more inclusive manufacturing ecosystems.
Automation Alley, the Industry 4.0 knowledge center, exists to help companies of all sizes navigate digital transformation. Chapter 3 of our 2022 Technology in Industry Report is a collaboration between academic and industry leaders and provides a comprehensive look at the current state and future trends associated with the distributed manufacturing business model and its potential to be transformative within the industry. We discuss the mindset shifts necessary for this transformation and the digital tools and innovations driving the growth and acceptance of distributed manufacturing. We also provide a distributed manufacturing case study on the world’s largest distributed network of 3D printers and discuss the necessary steps to bringing distributed, additive manufacturing supply chain benefits to mainstream use at scale.
This initiative is made possible in part through ongoing support from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Connect Today.