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- Project overview ManSYS
Project overview ManSYS
What is 3D printing?
3D printing, or Additive Manufacturing, as it is officially called, creates three dimensional solid objects from a digital model. The physical object is created by adding successive layers of material (layer upon layer), or by hardening powders or fluids layer for layer. Many different technologies exist, which all belong to the realm of additive manufacturing.
What are the benefits of 3D printing?
The main benefits of 3D printing are:
Complex parts can be designed and produced
Prototypes can quickly be produced
Individualisation of parts can more easily be designed and produced
- Small series of unique or redesigned parts become an economically viable option
Traditional manufacturing methods like moulding, milling and cutting have limits. 3D printing allows for complete form freedom. Complex parts (e.g. channels within channels, parts without assembly) can just as easily be designed and produced and less complex parts.
Individual parts and products, for instance personalised gear or medical devices (dental crowns, in-ear, prosthesis) can also more easily be produced
And when you wish to manufacture customised or small series of parts and components, ten any design modifications after the first production has been established can be costly. This reduces the ability of companies to react efficiently to market trends. 3D printing could offer an economic option for redesign.
ManSYS concept and approach
Most manufacturers outsource some or all of their manufacturing operations to third-parties specialists on a global basis. This allows them to realise cost advantages and open new markets. but not without complications. Communication problems with external suppliers, supply chain visibility and coordination are just some of the obstacles.
ManSYS aims to overcome these obstacles by developing and demonstrating a set of e-supply chain tools to enable the mass adoption of 3D printing.
Integrating the information systems of all the supply-chain partners makes it possible to overcome these complications.
To demonstrate the capabilities of the platform, demonstrator parts are used from Smith & Nephew, GE and Wisildent.
The concept of ManSYS represents an integrated supply chain network. A consortium of independent companies, located in different countries, form a strategic alliance with a common goal: designing, manufacturing and timely delivering complex, high quality products. By doing so we aim to establish a valid alternative for traditional manufacturing of these and other parts.
Examples of the benefits:
Example of a complex part
Example of a prototype © Materialise
Example of an individualisation of a part © Materialise
Example of small series of parts