But this model is now giving way to something new. On-demand manufacturing is an emerging trend that promises to meet consumer requirements while cutting costs and increasing production control for manufacturers. Let’s take a closer look at this development. &nbsp;<h2 dir="ltr">Traditional Manufacturing: A Vulnerable System</h2>In traditional manufacturing, products are made in large batches. They are then kept in warehouses until an order is received and the items are sent to the distributor. From there, they are delivered to individual customers. This model was the basis of the industrial economy, but it has some vulnerabilities that can seriously impact businesses.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIwNDIyNTQ0NTYzLTE3MjA0MjI1NDQ1NjMucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" alt="On-Demand Manufacturing" class="fr-fic fr-dii">This became especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when lockdown measures kept workers at home and&nbsp;<a title="On-Demand Manufacturing" href="https://www.ey.com/en_gl/insights/supply-chain/how-covid-19-impacted-supply-chains-and-what-comes-next" target="_blank">disrupted the supply chain</a>. Facing greater economic uncertainty, many customers also cut their costs and placed fewer orders. Some businesses adapted and even thrived, but for others, the upfront costs involved in traditional manufacturing rapidly became unsustainable. They were forced to reduce their workforce, scale down operations, or close altogether.The pandemic also affected consumer behaviour, with more people ordering goods online as and when needed. With this on-demand model on the rise, it’s hardly surprising that on-demand manufacturing is a growing trend, too.<h2 dir="ltr">New Method For A New Technological Age</h2>On-demand manufacturing is sometimes referred to as “cloud manufacturing” – and that’s no accident. Cloud-based technology is a major factor in enabling manufacturers to move to an on-demand model, with customers placing orders on an online platform. They can communicate with the manufacturer, upload models and specifications and receive feedback remotely and in real-time.The other factor in the growth of on-demand manufacturing is the emergence of new manufacturing methods. In many sectors, the large, maintenance-intensive machines of the old factories are no longer necessary. 3D printing is increasingly accessible, as is CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining. These technologies can be&nbsp;<a title="On-Demand Manufacturing" href="https://www.engineeringworldchannel.com/cnc-vs-3d-printing/" target="_blank">used separately or together</a> for rapid, cost-effective precision manufacturing. They’re economically accessible too: an entry-level 3D printer is well within the budget of small businesses, sole traders and enthusiastic hobbyists.These machines also have the advantage of being lightweight and compact, as well as easily operable by a single user. This reduces overheads and increases scalability, making on-demand manufacturing appealing both as a primary line of business and as a way to use up spare capacity. But those aren’t the only advantages.<h3 dir="ltr">MEETING THE NEEDS OF END USERS</h3>Depending on the sector, end users can have a wide spectrum of needs and wants. The fixed hardware setup of a traditional factory makes it expensive and difficult to offer any significant degree of personalisation, at least at a cost acceptable to the buyer. And with a system calibrated to produce large batches of the same product, small orders are rarely feasible.With on-demand manufacturing, a customer can order just one prototype and have it made and delivered within a very short timescale, no matter how complex the job. Precision manufacturing of custom, lightweight components is&nbsp;<a title="On-Demand Manufacturing" href="https://www.automate.org/industry-insights/beyond-the-hype-3d-printings-real-world-impact-across-industries" target="_blank">crucial in various industries</a> such as medical, aerospace and automotive engineering. These sectors are where on-demand manufacturing can thrive.<h3 dir="ltr">STREAMLINING STORAGE AND LOGISTICS</h3>As the pandemic showed, the logistics of conventional manufacturing are complex and delicate. A delay or crisis at one point in the supply chain can disrupt all the others, with serious operational and economic consequences.&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIwNDIyNTQ0NjgyLTE3MjA0MjI1NDQ2ODIucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" alt="On-Demand Manufacturing" class="fr-fic fr-dii">This model also incurs high overheads, with large and complex storage requirements as well as security and insurance. Operating, maintaining and monitoring transportation and logistic systems requires extensive equipment and personnel, plus a dedicated sales and marketing network. All this adds to the high cost of manufacturing and renders small-scale ordering unsustainable.Contrast on-demand manufacturing, where individual orders are placed directly with the manufacturer, and each finished product is shipped directly to the client. While bulk production can certainly be cost-effective for mass-produced components, this model is far more flexible and can accommodate product runs from a single item right up to the thousands.<h3 dir="ltr">REDUCING WASTE, EMPOWERING INNOVATION</h3>Traditional manufacturing naturally makes customers risk-averse. Over-ordering, or commissioning a design that isn’t entirely suitable, can lead to a great deal of wasted material and sunk expense. Changing global conditions can also impact the market, making yesterday’s purchase estimate entirely inaccurate today.This is a major advantage of the on-demand model, especially for smaller and more specialist businesses. The short lead time means that products can be manufactured once they’re sold – with no wastage, no storage and far less economic risk. And if a prototype doesn’t quite work yet, it’s fast and easy to adjust the design and make a new one.<h2 dir="ltr">The Future Of Manufacturing?</h2>Despite its risks and shortcomings, conventional manufacturing continues to be the most practical, cost-effective option for certain sectors. At the moment, the advantages of the on-demand model are most obvious for innovation-driven sectors, small businesses and specialist consumers. This is where the short lead times, ease of customisation and simplified logistics all bring direct benefits to bear.However, that doesn’t mean a greater change isn’t coming.&nbsp;<a title="On-Demand Manufacturing" href="https://www.rowse.co.uk/blog/post/is-3d-printing-used-in-mass-manufacturing" target="_blank">The possible applications of 3D printing for mass production</a> are starting to become clear, challenging the dominance of traditional manufacturing plants. The emergence and growth of on-demand manufacturing might well be the beginning of a broader industrial revolution.

Since the days of the Industrial Revolution, manufacturing has been associated with scale. Small artisanal and home workshops gave way to major factories producing large quantities of goods, employing a massive workforce to carry out repetitive and increasingly mechanised tasks. 

What Is On-Demand Manufacturing?

Hidden occupational health risks impact both employees and businesses across sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, retail, and construction. By addressing these risks early and promoting safer working conditions, companies can achieve a 46% increase in efficiency!&nbsp;&nbsp;To discuss the critical role of safe work environments, Xsens is hosting a crash course webinar series that consists of two chapters. The first chapter,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.movella.com/resources/live-stream/workplace-ergonomics-maximising-workplace-health-and-efficiency" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Workplace Ergonomics: Maximize Employee Well-being and Productivity</a>, was held on April 30, and you can&nbsp;now&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/3W7ePEn" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">register for the second session</a>, which takes place on July 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NxUrHnd9xmQ?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe>&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are the topics we discussed in the first chapter: &nbsp;&nbsp;<ol start="1"><li data-leveltext="%1." data-font="Aptos" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props='{"335552541":0,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769242":[65533,0],"469777803":"left","469777804":"%1.","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}' data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">What is workplace ergonomics, and how does it impact occupational health and safety?&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ol>Workplace ergonomics is a critical aspect of occupational health &amp; safety. It involves tailoring workspaces and processes in line with human physical and cognitive abilities. It aims to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and enhance a facility's safety and productivity. Poor ergonomics can lead to significant financial impacts, including high injury costs and operational disruptions. On average, workplace injuries cost businesses over $20,000 per incident and result in about 20 days (about 3 weeks) of lost work time.&nbsp;&nbsp;<ol start="2"><li data-leveltext="%1." data-font="Aptos" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props='{"335552541":0,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769242":[65533,0],"469777803":"left","469777804":"%1.","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}' data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">Why is workplace ergonomics so important for organizations? &nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ol>Poor ergonomics in workplaces can result in high injury costs and challenges in maintaining operational continuity. Furthermore, companies need to abide by international standards, such as ISO, OSHA, and EN norms, that serve as objective tools for ergonomic assessments and imply legal consequences for non-compliant facilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;<ol start="3"><li data-leveltext="%1." data-font="Aptos" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props='{"335552541":0,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769242":[65533,0],"469777803":"left","469777804":"%1.","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}' data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">What are some of the different ergonomic assessment methods and tools often used by organizations?&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ol>There are several options for conducting ergonomic assessment today:&nbsp;<ul><li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props='{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}' data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Traditional ergonomic assessments rely on manual methods such as checklists and video recordings to observe worker postures and movements based on international standards such as ISO and OSHA.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props='{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}' data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">Advanced software tools, including Siemens Process Simulate and CATIA, offer digital workspace design and ergonomic assessment capabilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props='{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}' data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">AI-powered video analysis tools automate assessments by tracking joint angles and movements but may not fully capture dynamic work environments.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="2" data-list-defn-props='{"335552541":1,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}' data-aria-posinset="4" data-aria-level="1">Motion capture, allowing for rapid data collection and&nbsp;objective&nbsp;analysis, offers a quick return on investment by reducing injury rates and associated costs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Prioritizing improved ergonomics can profoundly impact worker well-being and satisfaction. Businesses can lower costs and boost productivity by reducing injuries and creating safer work environments. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Do not miss the second chapter of our webinar series, where we will talk about the role of motion capture in promoting occupational health &amp; safety, real-life use cases, and ROI! Register today:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/3W7ePEn" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://bit.ly/3W7ePEn</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

A woman wearing Xsens Awinda suit sorting our fruits in the supermarket environment. The pose analytics are visualized using Scalefit

Improved occupational health and safety can enhance productivity by 46% and boost employee well-being. To address these opportunities, Xsens is launching a crash course on topics like injury risk reduction, regulation compliance, and the positive influence of safer workspaces.

A crash course on occupational health & safety: safer workplaces for improved productivity

Global supply chain disruptions have become a common occurrence, leaving many businesses grappling with delays and shortages. Offshore manufacturing, once the go-to strategy for cost savings, has shown its vulnerabilities. This raises the question: What if you can't receive the parts made offshore? The answer might just lie in turning to in-house manufacturing solutions like injection molding and CNC machining.In today's rapidly shifting economic landscape, manufacturing reliability is more critical than ever. Offshore production can offer cost benefits, but the risks of supply chain disruptions, extended lead times, and quality control issues are very real concerns. To mitigate these risks, an increasing number of businesses are turning to in-house manufacturing solutions such as desktop injection molding and CNC machines. These compact, yet powerful tools are revolutionizing the way small businesses and entrepreneurs approach production.The Shift to Domestic ManufacturingIn recent years, the manufacturing landscape has shifted significantly. Companies are increasingly looking at domestic or onshore manufacturing not just as a backup plan but as a primary strategy. This shift is driven by several factors including the desire for greater control over production, reducing lead times, and mitigating the risks associated with global supply chains.The global market has faced numerous challenges in recent years, from trade wars to pandemics. These events have highlighted the vulnerabilities of relying solely on offshore manufacturing. As a result, there's been a renewed interest in domestic production—onshore manufacturing—that promises more control and agility.Advantages of Inhouse ManufacturingInhouse manufacturing offers&nbsp;numerous advantages:<ul><li>Control: Having production close at hand means greater control over quality and the manufacturing process.</li><li>Agility: Domestic production allows for quicker response times to market changes and customer demands by quick product design changes and short lead times for production.</li><li>Reduced Lead Times: Without the need for international shipping or minimum order quantity issues, lead times are significantly reduced.</li><li>Intellectual Property Protection: Keeping production onshore helps protect your intellectual property for a long term innovation strategy and overcome the skilled labor shortages.</li><li>Supporting Local Economy: Domestic manufacturing contributes to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting local businesses.</li></ul>Embracing Desktop Manufacturing ToolsFor many businesses, the thought of setting up a manufacturing line is daunting due to the perceived high costs and complexities involved. However, desktop manufacturing tools such as injection molding and CNC machines have made it more accessible than ever. You can start using them with a fraction of an accessorial attachment cost of an industrial size machine.Desktop Injection Molding MachinesDesktop injection molding machines are a game-changer for small-scale production. They are affordable, easy to use, and require minimal space, making them perfect for small businesses or startups. These machines allow for the quick production of plastic parts and prototypes, giving companies the flexibility to innovate and iterate on their designs without the need for large-scale industrial equipment.Select a domestic vendor who has been in the market for a long time and has a robust support system. Be aware of the scam attempts just by trusting a nice looking website and a sleek YouTube video.&nbsp;Simply call the company, email to ask questions or setup a showroom visit to validate the machinery.Desktop CNC MachinesSimilarly, desktop CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines offer precision machining capabilities in a compact form factor. They can mill various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic with high accuracy. For businesses that require custom parts or small production runs, desktop CNC machines provide a cost-effective and efficient solution. You can eliminate the long learning curve by start using a desktop CNC machine with a tested and proven precision for miling metal parts.&nbsp;If a desktop CNC machine do not offer a coolant feature and do not have a sturdy z-axis, it can not mill metal parts. Period.Minimizing Initial Investment RisksOne of the biggest hurdles in manufacturing is the initial investment required to set up production capabilities.&nbsp;Desktop manufacturing tools significantly lower the barrier to entry, allowing businesses to start small and scale as needed.Desktop injection molding and CNC machines are much more affordable than their industrial counterparts. This affordability enables businesses to invest in in-house manufacturing capabilities without committing to massive capital expenditures.Scalability: With desktop manufacturing tools, companies&nbsp;can start with a single machine and expand as demand grows.&nbsp;This scalability ensures that businesses can manage their cash flow effectively and avoid over-investing in production capacity that may not be needed immediately.These tools are ideal for prototyping and small-batch production. By being able to produce parts on demand, businesses can test and refine their products in real time. This agility can be a significant competitive advantage, particularly for startups and innovators.Case Studies: Success Stories of Desktop ManufacturingAcross various industries including automotive, aerospace, medical, dental, machine shops, 3D printers;&nbsp;businesses have successfully integrated desktop manufacturing tools into their operations. Here are a couple of success stories.Example 1: Custom Electronics EnclosuresA tech startup specializing in custom electronics was struggling with long lead times and high costs for prototyping enclosures. By investing in a desktop injection molding machine, they were able to produce prototypes in-house quickly and at a fraction of the cost. This not only accelerated their development cycle but also allowed them to experiment with different designs without incurring prohibitive costs.Example 2: Automotive Aftermarket PartsAn automotive company focused on aftermarket parts faced challenges with minimum order quantities from offshore suppliers. By using a desktop CNC machine, they could manufacture parts on demand, eliminating excess inventory and reducing their reliance on external manufacturers.Conclusion: The Future of Manufacturing Is InhouseThe shift towards in-house and onshore manufacturing with desktop tools is not just a trend; it's the future of production for small businesses and entrepreneurs. By adopting desktop injection molding and CNC machines, companies can take control of their manufacturing processes, reduce risks, and remain agile in a dynamic market.Embrace the power of desktop manufacturing and take the first step towards a more resilient and efficient production strategy. With the right tools and approach, you can minimize investment risks and secure your place in the ever-evolving world of manufacturing.<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=injectionmolding&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7187123894649020417" data-test-app-aware-link="" target="_blank" id="isPasted">#injectionmolding</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=cncmachining&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7187123894649020417" data-test-app-aware-link="" target="_blank">#cncmachining</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=supplychain&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7187123894649020417" data-test-app-aware-link="" target="_blank">#supplychain</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=riskmanagement&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7187123894649020417" data-test-app-aware-link="" target="_blank">#riskmanagement</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=agilemanufacturing&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7187123894649020417" data-test-app-aware-link="" target="_blank">#agilemanufacturing</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=rapidprototyping&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7187123894649020417" data-test-app-aware-link="" target="_blank">#rapidprototyping</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=offshore&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7187123894649020417" data-test-app-aware-link="" target="_blank">#offshore</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=inhouseproduction&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7187123894649020417" data-test-app-aware-link="" target="_blank">#inhouseproduction</a>

APSX MAchines presents: Defying Risks - Inhouse Manufacturing Made Accessible

What if There is a Problem with Receiving the Parts Made Offshore? With the right tools and approach, you can minimize investment risks and secure your place in the ever-evolving world of manufacturing.

Defying Risks - Inhouse Manufacturing Made Accessible

By definition, networking is “the action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts”, but in more recent times, has networking become a buzzword with no action? 

Networking: just a buzzword or pivotal for manufacturing success?

You’re a design firm. You have engineering expertise. You have the know-how. Now, you need access to the technology to bring your part to life. So, how do you choose a manufacturing partner? And how do you ensure you get the most out of that relationship?When choosing a production partner, thankfully, the decision can be narrowed down. Undoubtedly, you will require specific processes, materials, expertise, etc., which not everyone can offer. Once you have narrowed down this list of capabilities, the next question is often, who can give me the best value? Who can deliver my part the quickest? But it is worth looking into your manufacturing partner’s process.&nbsp;Back to the drawing boardPick a partner who allows you to upload your CAD file and amend it as often as you want! Ideally, for free! At Protolabs, our automated <a href="https://www.protolabs.com/en-gb/automated-design-analysis/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=uk-desgin-firms-0224&utm_content=wevolver-design-firms-manufacturing-partners-0324" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">design for manufacturability</a> software has no cost. You can amend and upload as many times as you like. If you are keen to use us and can’t quite get your part to meet our capability requirements, why not book a meeting with one of our engineers? Our complimentary consultant design service offers up Protolabs engineering expertise. Whilst we are not a design consultancy, our engineers are experts in the services we provide here, and they will work with you to help you achieve your aim of producing a manufacturable part.Rapid PrototypingPick a partner who can produce your <a href="https://www.protolabs.com/en-gb/rapid-prototyping/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=uk-desgin-firms-0224&utm_content=wevolver-design-firms-manufacturing-partners-0324" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">prototypes</a> quickly! When you’re designing, prototyping is key. Rather than waiting weeks for prototypes to come back so you can test them. Why not work with Protolabs, who can provide parts as fast as a day? While speed depends on complexity and size, we are the quickest in manufacturing, so upload your CAD and find out how soon you could be holding your first test part.Aluminium Tooling?You may read that heading and think; I&nbsp;do not want aluminium tooling –&nbsp;we would ask you why. At Protolabs, we often use aluminium tooling due to its speed and cost efficiency. If you eventually move to production with us and are concerned that your tool won’t last, don’t worry. At Protolabs, when you move to our on-demand production service, your tool comes with a lifetime guarantee! That means if that aluminium tool you are worried about needs replacing, we will do it at no extra cost.No minimum order quantities (MoQs)Chances are, when you are starting out, you will be keen to find a supplier who doesn’t have a minimum order quantity to make the process more expensive and less efficient. At Protolabs, we have no MoQs, so order away as little as 1 part and as many as 25,000+. &nbsp;On-Demand ProductionFind someone who can support you with scaling up. Whilst a small prototyping house might seem like the perfect solution at the start, if you do decide to move on to production, you then have to start again with someone who can offer production capabilities. At Protolabs, we offer both!So you’ve prototyped with us, and now you want to start considering production runs? We are not just a prototyping service (as our name might imply) our extensive on-demand manufacturing service is here to support you with your low-volume production needs. We offer bridge tooling to help support you with the transition. &nbsp;We also pride ourselves on the size and scale of our shopfloors and on our infinite capacity. How can we say infinite capacity? Easy, we scale up as the business need requires. Not convinced? Feel free to come and <a href="https://explore.protolabs.com/book-a-visit/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=uk-desgin-firms-0224&utm_content=wevolver-design-firms-manufacturing-partners-0324" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">book a tour</a> with us and see what we’re about.&nbsp;<img border="0" width="432" src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMzIxOTQ3MTA0LTE3MTAzMjE5NDcxMDQuanBlZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" alt="A large room with several machinesDescription automatically generated" class="fr-fic fr-dii">&nbsp;Quality is keySelect a supplier who doesn’t cut corners. You want speed, you want low cost, but you also don’t want to cut down on quality. Here at Protolabs, we adhere to ISO 9001 standards in regard to the quality of our production parts, but we also adhere to other quality standards. Some are process-specific, for example, we offer ISO 13485 in our Direct Metal Laser Sintering service, which is important for parts required in the medical industry.We also offer various inspection reports, measurement reports, manufacturing analyses, etc. to read more on these, please visit our process pages.Finally, find a partner with global reach. Many manufacturing partners have a global presence, which can help design firms access international markets and customers. Here at Protolabs, we have production facilities across the globe, but it doesn’t stop there. Have a part that doesn’t fit our capabilities? We also have our <a href="https://www.protolabs.com/en-gb/about-us/what-is-the-digital-network/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=uk-desgin-firms-0224&utm_content=wevolver-design-firms-manufacturing-partners-0324" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Digital Network</a> and kind find the capabilities you require at one of our network facilities across the globe.<img border="0" width="566" src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMzIxOTQ3MTE5LTE3MTAzMjE5NDcxMTkucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" class="fr-fic fr-dii">Most design firms won’t have onsite production facilities and will require a partner to support this provision, bridging the gap between the design concept and the actual product. These partnerships should offer manufacturing expertise, cost-effectiveness, time efficiency, quality assurance, scalability, access to technology and risk mitigation.A partnership with Protolabs can help bring your ideas to life quickly and efficiently whilst maintaining high-quality standards. Check out our dedicated <a href="https://www.protolabs.com/en-gb/industries/design-firms/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=uk-desgin-firms-0224&utm_content=wevolver-design-firms-manufacturing-partners-0324" target="_blank" title="Design Firms" rel="noopener noreferrer">Design Firms industry page</a> to give you the insight you need to choose Protolabs as your manufacturing partner.

Protolabs Global Digital Manufacturing Locations

As a design firm, how do you choose a manufacturing partner? And how do you ensure you get the most out of that partnership?

How can design firms get the best from their manufacturing partnership?

Perhaps you’ve already seen the news.A new Canadian tech company, <a href="https://cypherrobotics.com/" target="_blank">Cypher Robotics</a>, has unveiled a groundbreaking solution for inventory cycle counting and precision scanning at the industrial level. The company made its announcement at <a href="https://www.modexshow.com/" target="_blank">MODEX2024</a>, one of the premiere global conferences for the supply chain ecosystem. The company also announced key partnerships with AI-driven fulfilment experts <a href="https://www.greyorange.com/" target="_blank">GreyOrange</a> and global telecommunications innovator <a href="https://www.ericsson.com/en" target="_blank">Ericsson</a>. In addition, Cypher revealed it has partnered with an as-yet unnamed Canadian retail giant with more than 300 locations.The system integrates an autonomous ground robot with tethered drone technology, allowing for scanning missions lasting some five hours in duration between charging. Data is uploaded in realtime to existing&nbsp;Warehouse Management System (WMS), WCS (Warehouse Control System) and WES (Warehouse Execution System) software. What’s more, the system can navigate even tight aisles autonomously without any infrastructure changes.So why is InDro keen on sharing this news? We’ll get to that.First, have a look at how it works:<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dM9P0-q76Do??si=ohAVKXBE7ZjjdOie&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/span&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/span&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;nbsp;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/span&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;</iframe><h3 id="isPasted">The InDro Connection</h3>If you guessed InDro has a strong connection with Cypher Robotics, you were correct.InDro Robotics has an incubator agreement with Cypher, and helped to develop this product. InDro is also an investor in the company.“This is the future of warehouse robotics,” says InDro Robotics CEO Philip Reece, who has founded or co-founded multiple successful companies in the robotics, drone and R&amp;D spaces.“It completely eliminates the dull and repetitive task of scanning by hand, freeing up employees to do more satisfying work. It also frees up or eliminates the need for equipment like modified forklifts that have been previously required for the task.”Reece was quoted in a <a href="https://indrorobotics.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Final-Cypher-Robotics-News-Release-1.pdf" target="_blank" data-lf-fd-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">news release</a> launching Cypher Robotics and its flagship solution, which is called Captis.Here’s a look at the system. The tethered drone ascends vertically from the Captis base, scanning product as the ground robot moves seamlessly down aisles as narrow as five feet (1.524 metres).Below: The Captis system integrates a Robot Operating System (ROS) based drone with an autonomous ground robot<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMjU3MjQzNDY4LUN5cGhlci1Sb2JvdGljcy1DYXB0aXMtT25lLXNjYWxlZC53ZWJwIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 768px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Autonomous Cycle Counting Robot"><h3 id="isPasted">The News</h3>More detailed information about Cypher Robotics and Captis was revealed in the following news release:(ATLANTA): <a href="https://cypherrobotics.com/home/" target="_blank">Cypher Robotics</a> today unveiled a new standard for efficient and accurate cycle counting scanning for industry at MODEX2024 – one of the sector’s leading annual global conferences. The company also revealed partnerships with AI-driven automation leaders <a href="https://www.greyorange.com/" target="_blank">GreyOrange</a> and technology company <a href="https://www.ericsson.com/en" target="_blank">Ericsson</a>, plus a leading Canadian retailer.Incubated by Canada’s <a href="https://indrorobotics.ca/" target="_blank">InDro Robotics</a>, Cypher calls its solution ‘The Future of Warehouse Robotics’, and here’s why: It combines both aerial and ground robotics technology into a single, integrated package.That solution is called Captis – an autonomous ground vehicle that can find its way around warehouses all on its own. It won’t bump into people or objects, and requires no infrastructure changes. When it’s time for cycle counting, it uses drone technology attached to the ground robot with a tether – used to power the drone and for realtime data transfer. The drone ascends vertically and begins scanning products (it’s code-agnostic) as the Captis base navigates its way down even-narrow corridors.Based in Ottawa, Cypher Robotics has a specialised engineering team and state-of-the-art fabrication. Comprehensive, real-world testing has been carried out over several months in partnership with a major Canadian retailer that has more than 300 locations across the country.The system can capture data with 99.9 per cent accuracy autonomously for up to five hours per mission. That data is automatically integrated with existing Warehouse Management System (WMS), WCS (Warehouse Control System) and WES (Warehouse Execution System) software. Captis eliminates the costs associated with manual cycle counts, improves inventory accuracy, and ensures seamless timeline replenishment while avoiding both over- and under-stocking items.What’s more, Captis can simultaneously carry out highly detailed precision scans of infrastructure (more on this in the future).Sound technologically complex? It is. But it’s also a breeze to operate.&nbsp;“Captis is completely a hands-off product,” says Philip Reece, who has founded or co-founded multiple successful companies in the robotics, drone and R&amp;D spaces. Those include <a href="https://indrorobotics.ca/" target="_blank">InDro Robotics</a>, the Canadian leader in ground and aerial robotics R&amp;D, which has also invested in Cypher Robotics.“When we say this is ‘the future of warehouse robotics’, we mean it. It completely eliminates the dull and repetitive task of scanning by hand, freeing up employees to do more satisfying work. It also frees up or eliminates the need for equipment like modified forklifts that have been previously required for the task.”Cypher has partnered with warehouse fulfilment experts GreyOrange and global telco innovator Ericsson.“The Captis autonomous cycle counting solution is powered by GreyOrange’s GreyMatter, our <a href="https://www.greyorange.com/solutions/by-technology/orchestration-platform/" target="_blank">fulfillment orchestration platform</a>,” says Akash Gupta, Co-Founder and CEO, GreyOrange. “We are excited that Cypher Robotics has joined GreyOrange’s <a href="https://www.greyorange.com/ranger-robot-series/certified-ranger-network/" target="_blank">Certified RangerTM Network (CRN)</a>ecosystem. Cypher’s Captis solution is a great option for companies new to automation and robotics to begin leveraging such tech since only one bot is needed per warehouse on average.”Manish Tiwari, Head of Private Cellular Networks, Ericsson Business Area Enterprise Wireless Solution says: “Captis is an innovative solution that listens to the industry’s needs and efficiently answers them. Being connected to Ericsson Private 5G allows Captis to traverse warehouses while maintaining consistent connectivity which ensures the safety of employees and devices. The low latency of the connection allows for immediate validation of data and the ability to re-capture it to maintain accuracy. The solution ensures that the organization’s data is protected throughout the process. &nbsp;Ericsson is looking forward to continued collaboration and innovation with Cypher that will help our customers’ digitalization efforts.”Below: Captis is built for scanning and is code-agnostic. Barcodes, QR codes and more are scanned autonomously and the data instantly integrated with existing warehouse management software<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzEwMjU3MzQ4NTUyLUN5cGhlci1TaXgtc2NhbGVkLndlYnAiLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Warehouse Robotics"><h3 id="isPasted">InDro's Take</h3>We are obviously excited about this announcement. The supply chain is a huge sector, and the automation of the supply chain is growing rapidly. Cypher Robotics believes this is the first system manufactured in North America to integrate aerial and ground robotics in a single solution.“It’s been a very satisfying process to see Cypher Robotics develop Captis with incubation assistance from us,” says InDro Robotics CEO Philip Reece.“It was already a technologically challenging build to create a ground robot that can navigate tight spaces autonomously in an unfamiliar setting. Combining that with drone technology adds a whole other level of complexity. We’re pleased that InDro was able to assist with incubation and look forward to seeing where Captis goes.”In addition to cycle counting, the Captis system also has Precision Scanning capabilities. It can provide updated 2D and 3D digital twins as it carries out its other work, empowering operations with a digital environment for scenario planning. It’s also capable of RFID scanning.More on these other significant features…to come.

A new Canadian tech company, Cypher Robotics, has unveiled a groundbreaking solution for inventory cycle counting and precision scanning at the industrial level.

A New Solution for Autonomous Cycle Counting and Precision Scanning

<h2 id="isPasted">Simple Tips for Engineers: Beating Supply Chain Issues</h2>In a helpful video, Francisco Luna from MacroFab shares great tips for engineers and supply chain professionals. Here’s a quick overview of what he talks about:<h3>MacroFab Platform: Making Things Easier</h3>Francisco starts with the MacroFab platform. This 24/7 online tool makes engineering work smoother, especially when dealing with supply chain problems. This platform helps you plan better and avoid delays.<h3>Before Production: Preparing Your BOM</h3>Before starting production, it's crucial to get your Bill of Materials (BOM) right. Francisco suggests double-checking your BOM to prevent future issues. A good BOM means fewer headaches later.<h3>For Supply Chain Pros: Stay Prepared</h3>If you're managing supply chains, Francisco has advice for you too. He emphasizes the need for being proactive – always plan ahead and keep an eye on what's happening in the supply chain.<h3>Common Production Problems: How to Solve Them</h3>Francisco talks about the usual problems engineers face during production. He gives practical solutions to these issues making it easier to handle them if they come up.<h3>Throughout the Product Life: Key Advice</h3>Finally, he gives tips for every stage of making a product. From design to the final product, these tips help engineers stay on top of their game and manage supply chain issues effectively.In short, Francisco's advice is a must-watch for engineers and supply chain pros. Following these tips can make your work smoother and help you tackle those tricky supply chain challenges.

As Francisco Luna explains in this short video, the MacroFab technology platform provides superior visibility and flexibility to solve today's most common supply chain issues.  Find out how you can speed up prototyping with MacroFab's technological platform prototyping and mitigate project risk.


Design Tips for Engineers to Combat the Supply Chain Problem

As the price of raw materials and labour rises, our annual survey of the UK manufacturing industry in association with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.imeche.org/" target="_blank">IMechE</a> reveals a new focus on cost: both as a major concern for businesses, and as a potential bottleneck in their adoption of new technologies.Nearly 40% of 102 industry leaders&nbsp;surveyed selected cost as the greatest&nbsp;challenge faced by UK companies when it comes to adopting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.protolabs.com/en-gb/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=uk-manufacturing-survey-1123&utm_content=wevolver-manufacturing-survey-1123" target="_blank">digital manufacturing</a> techniques, ahead of time, lack of awareness and expertise. In 2022, speed and efficiency were cited as the biggest obstacle to acquiring new business. In 2023, it’s price.Unfortunately, interest in sustainability seems to have collapsed as cost pressures bite – when asked what the most important area of investment would be over the next 12 months, only 18.81% of respondents said sustainability, down from 40% in 2022. Instead, manufacturing firms are prioritising securing new business: 37.62% said they were planning to invest in reaching new markets and market expansion, while 36.63% said they wanted to develop their products and services. <h3>Always right</h3>It might be customer service that makes the biggest difference, though: respondents ranked responsiveness and being the first to answer a customer need&nbsp;as the most important factor for their business to be competitive – that’s where rapid prototyping tools and investment in speedy new manufacturing techniques could bear the most fruit. <img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzAwNDczMDcwNDUwLTE3MDA0NzMwNzA0NTAucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 455px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> The industry as a whole is much more prepared for the adoption of <a href="https://www.protolabs.com/en-gb/resources/insight/industry-4-0/?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=uk-manufacturing-survey-1123&utm_content=wevolver-manufacturing-survey-1123" target="_blank">Industry 4.0</a> and digital processes than in previous years: 66% of respondents said their businesses were prepared or very prepared, and only 11% said they were unprepared or very unprepared, down from 34% in 2022, and 38% in 2021The level of automation has also increased: last year, 56% of respondents said less than a quarter of their manufacturing services were automated, but only 35% say the same in 2023. Cost pressures may cause that automation to slow down in the short term: 40% said they expect automation to increase only a little or not at all over the next 12 months, but, over a longer timescale, 40% think it will increase a lot over the next five years. <h3>Skills challenge</h3>If that’s going to happen, our respondents believe skills will be paramount. We asked them what UK companies need to do to retain their position in global manufacturing and 70% said a greater focus on and investment in STEM talent in the manufacturing and industrial sector would be key. Second on the list was embracing Industry 4.0 by using big data to create value-added services. And third was more support from government: in the aftermath of Brexit, companies have been asking for greater support to help develop industries in the UK.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzAwNDczMDk1MjQxLTE3MDA0NzMwOTUyNDEucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 470px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> But the biggest challenge to adopting new digital manufacturing technologies is now cost, say respondents, followed by time, lack of awareness and expertise. Hopes were high, however. One respondent said it would “improve quality, reduce downtime and enable new techniques”. Another said it would “make production efficiency higher and reduce labour costs,” although there were also concerns about cyber security and how to blend new tech with old.That’s a key challenge for the industry emerging from our latest survey of the UK manufacturing industry. Digital technologies have much promise and companies are aware of the benefits, but, as in previous years, our research has found that not all of them have the skills and expertise to implement and take advantage of the efficiency and sustainability benefits. Now, with rising costs, manufacturers are in survival mode, forced to focus on the bottom line. The need to adapt and adopt new technologies has never been greater.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzAwNDcxNTQxOTQyLUlNZWNoRS1TdXJ2ZXktSW5mb2dyYXBoaWMuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 765px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">

If innovation has been the manufacturing buzzword of the past five years, the next five might be marked by a different one: inflation.

Protolabs x IMechE Survey 2023: Cost Pressures Hit Manufacturing's Sustainability Goal

The automotive industry is no stranger to the winds of change. From global production networks that bring parts and components from any corner of the world, vehicles can be produced faster than ever before at the beginning of the 21st century.&nbsp;However, Relativity Space just achieved an incredible milestone with its launch of the first 3D-printed rocket. Their Aeon 1 engine can be printed in mere two months, drastically cutting the time to launch and making frequent launches more affordable. Plus, they&#39;re keeping everything home-grown: based in Long Beach, U.S.&nbsp;Relativity designed and built the Terran 1 rocket exclusively at its PORTAL factory. This launch&#39;s ground-breaking features include additive manufacturing, allowing custom parts and components to be produced on demand and at scale.&nbsp;We are embracing a new era of globalization unique to our generation with design and manufacturing agility never before seen, eliminating traditional supply chain restrictions and enabling greater efficiency.&nbsp;<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/821220095" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> <h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Small factory with great customization</h2>Finding the balance between cost savings and custom options can be a tricky dance. Large-scale factories need massive production capabilities to cover customers&#39; diverse needs - think stamping machines, casting machines, paint shops and robotic welding cells! But what if you don&#39;t need thousands of cars per day? How do we ensure that producing more economical quantities is just as profitable without sacrificing customer choice? That&#39;s where customization comes in; Real customer-led customization allows for any size order with factory-made components tailored to their wants.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjgyNTA4ODE1NTAzLTE2ODI1MDg4MTU1MDMucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 656px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> Two 3D printing technologies then emerge as promising - Wire arc metal additive manufacturing (WAAM) and robotic filament winding/ composites 3D printing.&nbsp;WAAM yields low and mid-volume production quickly. The arms use a weldable filament wire, melt it, and deposit the resulting weld beads into layers to create a solid object of a given shape. WAAM can achieve typical deposition rates of about 2-5kg/hour. Thus WAAM serves as a perfect choice to 3Dprint chassis structures.However, it might take longer if the desired demand grows. There are strict manufacturing limitations on the surface finish and permitted overhang angles for WAAM. You can&#39;t print very small parts with WAAM because its minimum resolution is about 2mm. However, the technology works well for printing chassis because our chassis shapes are fairly large and not particularly complex. For chassis structures, surface finish is not very crucial. Other engineering difficulties, like thermal distortion, can be overcome through trial and error.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjgyNTA4ODQ0NTc2LTE2ODI1MDg4NDQ1NzYuanBlZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 674px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">WAAM printed chassis-HookeNow we have discovered that robotic filament winding provides a faster solution; With the robot winding resin-wetted fibre filaments (glass fibres, basalt fibres, carbon fibres) into software-defined geometric shapes, one robot can 3Dprint two composite chassis structures per day - meaning 25 robots are required for 50 daily pieces instead of 180!&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjgyNTA4ODczMzQyLTE2ODI1MDg4NzMzNDIuanBlZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 576px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">This tech offers an order of magnitude more speed in producing solid objects like chassis with incredible lightweight properties surpassed by none other than metal parts, all at once satisfying any requirement as needed.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjgyNTA4OTM3NDY3LTE2ODI1MDg5Mzc0NjcucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 661px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">

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