Industrial 3D-printing - enabler for digital business models

Industrial 3D printing is an accepted and established manufacturing process for the production of physical components in many industries and business sectors. The technology, which had its beginnings in the field of prototyping in particular, is now often used for series components or for a demand-oriented and sustainable spare parts policy. The presentation will begin with a brief history of the technology at Daimler Buses and the creation of the Center of Competence 3D Printing at the Neu-Ulm site. 

Starting from pure component production, new business models for industrial 3D printing have gradually been established at Daimler Buses in recent years. In particular, the focus is on the digital warehouse and license management as the basis for customer-oriented, decentralized production. These solutions, initially developed for internal purposes, are now being transferred by Additive Manufacturing Solutions (AMS) Daimler Truck AG (part of the Center of Competence 3D Printing) to numerous industries and a wide range of customers, including the furniture industry. The most common drivers for this are external economic challenges (supply bottlenecks, cost pressure, etc.), sustainability aspects or the desire for innovation through industrial 3D printing. 

Starting with the automotive industry and Daimler Buses itself as a pioneer, the report concludes by presenting a big picture that stands for efficiency gains and sustainable management, regardless of the industry or company.