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?

<p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">The development of unmanned logistic vehicles is revolutionizing last-mile deliveries! However, these vehicles, equipped with advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and autonomous navigation systems, have faced significant investment in their research and development. In this article, let&rsquo;s delve into how on-demand manufacturing holds the potential to accelerate the development of unmanned logistic vehicles, leading to more efficient and agile industry practices.</p><h2 dir="ltr">The Need for Rapid Development</h2><p dir="ltr">As e-commerce continues to soar and consumer expectations for fast and efficient services rise, traditional logistic systems are facing significant challenges. Unmanned logistic vehicles offer a solution by augmenting existing infrastructure and enabling faster and more flexible delivery options. From autonomous drones for last-mile deliveries to self-driving trucks for long-haul transportation, these vehicles offer increased speed, reduced operational costs, and improved safety.</p><p dir="ltr">The need for rapid development of these vehicles is paramount to meet the evolving demands of the industry, optimize resource utilization, and ensure timely and reliable deliveries to customers worldwide. However, the lengthy and rigid manufacturing processes involved in traditional vehicle production often delay the development and deployment of these technologies. On-demand manufacturing addresses this issue by offering a streamlined and accelerated manufacturing approach.</p><h2 dir="ltr">On-Demand Manufacturing Fuels Unmanned Logistic Vehicle Development</h2><p dir="ltr">On-demand manufacturing is an agile and flexible approach that leverages advanced technologies such as CNC machining, 3D printing and more to enable rapid prototyping and end-use production of unmanned logistic vehicles. It can quickly help iterate designs, produce vehicle components, and optimize performance. This agile manufacturing approach allows for faster development cycles and facilitates the incorporation of emerging technologies into the vehicles.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Customization and Scalability:</h3><p dir="ltr">One of the key advantages of on-demand manufacturing is its ability to customize vehicles according to specific requirements. Unmanned logistic vehicles often need to adapt to various operating environments and cargo types. On-demand manufacturing enables the production of vehicles tailored to unique specifications, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. Moreover, as the demand for unmanned logistic vehicles grows, on-demand manufacturing offers scalability, allowing for the rapid scaling of production without the need for extensive retooling or setup.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Reduced Costs and Time-to-Market:</h3><p dir="ltr">Traditional vehicle manufacturing processes involve significant upfront costs and long lead times. By contrast, on-demand manufacturing minimizes these hurdles. With the elimination of expensive tooling and reduced material waste through advanced manufacturing technologies, costs are significantly reduced. Additionally, the streamlined production process enables faster time-to-market, allowing manufacturers to respond swiftly to market demands and stay ahead of the competition.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Collaboration and Innovation:</h3><p dir="ltr">On-demand manufacturing approach fosters collaboration and innovation within the unmanned logistic vehicle industry. By providing a platform for manufacturers, designers, and engineers to collaborate, share ideas, and access advanced manufacturing capabilities, on-demand manufacturing facilitates the development of cutting-edge technologies. This collaborative environment encourages the exploration of new concepts, materials, and designs, ultimately pushing the boundaries of unmanned logistic vehicle development.</p><h2 dir="ltr">About RPWORLD On-demand Manufacturing</h2><p dir="ltr">RPWORLD&#39;s on-demand manufacturing capabilities have been accelerating the emerging automotive product development, including new energy vehicles, unmanned vehicles, and unmanned logistic vehicles. With extensive manufacturing experience, RPWORLD offers unparalleled advantages in the following areas:</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Shortest lead time: </strong>RPWORLD guarantees a minimum lead time of just 3 days, ensuring quick delivery of parts and components.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Customized CNC machining and injection molding:</strong>&nbsp;RPWORLD specializes in providing tailored manufacturing solutions to meet specific requirements.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>One-stop manufacturing solution: </strong>RPWORLD handles all stages of production, from prototyping to end-use production, from quality control to surface treatment.</p><p><strong>Design for Manufacturability (DFM) services: </strong>RPWORLD&#39;s in-depth DFM services minimize manufacturing risks and ensure smooth production.</p>

In this article, let’s delve into how on-demand manufacturing holds the potential to accelerate the development of unmanned logistic vehicles, leading to more efficient and agile industry practices.

How On-Demand Manufacturing Powers Unmanned Logistic Vehicles Revolution

<h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Introduction</h2><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://ultimaker.com/learn/metro-plastics/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Metro Plastics</a>, a specialized firm in custom injection molding, has significantly enhanced its operational efficiency by integrating the Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle into its manufacturing processes. Spearheaded by Scott Adams, the Engineering Manager with a 14-year tenure at the company, Metro Plastics has not only reduced lead times but also achieved substantial cost savings. This article delves into the technical aspects of how 3D printing technology has revolutionized Metro Plastics&#39; workflow.</p><h2 dir="ltr">The Genesis: Tackling Operational Delays</h2><p dir="ltr">Initially, Metro Plastics faced considerable challenges in obtaining end-of-arm tooling components from their in-house tool shop. The lead times varied dramatically, ranging from a week to several months, depending on the workload of the tool shop. Recognizing the inefficiency, Adams began exploring additive manufacturing technologies as a potential solution.</p><h3 dir="ltr">The Decision-Making Process</h3><p dir="ltr">After consulting with Matt Torosian, Director of Jabil&#39;s Additive Manufacturing Materials division, Adams was introduced to Ultimaker&#39;s range of 3D printers. The Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle was selected for its large build plate, superior air quality management, and flexibility to switch between a wide array of materials through its open material platform.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Rapid Implementation and Skill Adaptation</h3><p dir="ltr">Upon the arrival of the Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle, the engineering team at Metro Plastics quickly adapted to the new technology. Leveraging their existing 3D CAD skills, they mastered the Ultimaker Cura software and commenced printing components on the same day the printer was set up.</p><h1 dir="ltr">The Revolution of End-of-Arm Tooling (EOAT) through 3D Printing</h1><p dir="ltr">EOAT parts enable machines to complete specialized tasks such as picking, placing, sorting, and assembling. As industries evolve, there is an increasing need for custom and adaptable EOAT solutions. This is where 3D printing steps in, reshaping how EOAT is conceptualized, produced, and implemented.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Traditional Challenges in EOAT Production</h3><ol><li dir="ltr">Customization Constraints: Traditional manufacturing methods often come with design restrictions, making it challenging to produce unique or complex EOAT designs tailored to specific tasks.</li><li dir="ltr">Lead Time:&nbsp;As highlighted by Metro Plastics&#39; experience, obtaining specialized tooling parts can sometimes take weeks or even months, creating delays in the production line.</li><li dir="ltr">Costs: Bespoke tooling parts are often expensive, primarily when produced in small quantities using conventional manufacturing techniques.</li></ol><h1 dir="ltr">3D Printing: The Game-Changer for EOAT</h1><ol><li dir="ltr">Rapid Prototyping: 3D printing allows manufacturers to swiftly move from a design concept to a physical prototype. This ability to quickly iterate designs means that EOAT can be optimized for performance with fewer delays.</li><li dir="ltr">Customization:&nbsp;With 3D printing, the complexities and intricacies of design are not a hurdle. EOAT can be tailored precisely to the requirements of a task, ensuring better functionality and efficiency.</li><li dir="ltr">Weight Reduction:&nbsp;3D printed parts can be designed to be lightweight without sacrificing strength, especially when using materials like carbon-fiber filled nylon. Lighter EOAT can lead to faster robotic movements and less wear and tear on the robotic system.</li><li dir="ltr">Cost-Efficiency: 3D printing can be more cost-effective for producing specialized parts in small to medium quantities, reducing the overheads associated with mold creation and material wastage in traditional manufacturing.</li></ol><h2 dir="ltr">Beyond Initial Expectations: Versatile Applications</h2><p dir="ltr">Initially, Metro Plastic had envisioned using the 3D printer solely for end-of-arm tooling. However, the team soon discovered a plethora of other applications, including:</p><ul><li dir="ltr">General and assembly fixtures</li><li dir="ltr">CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) components</li><li dir="ltr">Equipment casings and brackets</li><li dir="ltr">Prototypes for both internal design and customer requirements</li><li dir="ltr">Financial and Operational Benefits</li></ul><p dir="ltr">The integration of 3D printing has led to remarkable cost efficiencies. For instance, sensor brackets, which would typically cost between $40 to $50 and take days to arrive, can now be printed in-house for just $5 per part. Moreover, the production department now consults the engineering team for 3D printing possibilities before considering outsourcing or purchasing from catalogs.</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 302px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjkzMjM1MzY3MTM1LXF1YWxpdHktY29udHJvbC1maXh0dXJlLmpwZWciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false">Metro Plastics found many more 3D printing applications, like this quality control fixture.</span></span></span></p><p dir="ltr">This proves that 3D printing is not only making impact on industrial-grade manufacturing outcomes but can positively impact through the shop floor. Fast, affordable and highly-customized solutions for an array of challenges are now solvable by in-house teams.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 302px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjkzMjM1NDA1MjQ4LXBhY2thZ2luZy1uZXN0LmpwZWciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner" spellcheck="false">A 3D printed packaging nest to help organize parts.</span></span></span></p><h2 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h2><p dir="ltr">Metro Plastics has successfully leveraged the Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle to optimize its operations, achieving up to 90% cost reduction in certain components and significantly reducing lead times. The technology has not only solved immediate operational bottlenecks but has also opened doors to various other applications, making it an invaluable asset for the company.</p><p dir="ltr">To learn more about the impact of 3D printing on the manufacturing industry, read the other articles in our series. <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/how-3d-printing-is-enabling-faster-design-higher-productivity-and-more-customization-in-manufacturing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">A deep-dive into how 3D printing is enabling faster design, higher productivity, and more customization in manufacturing</a> and another case study about how <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/how-zeiss-is-using-3d-printed-parts-in-serial-production" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Zeiss is Using 3D Printed Parts in Serial Production</a>.</p><p dir="ltr">Future articles will examine the impact of 3D printing on packaging, STEM, and transportation.&nbsp;</p>

Injection molding company Metro Plastics used 3D printing solutions from UltiMaker to solve long lead time issues on their shop floor.


Fast turnaround end-of arm tooling solutions with advanced 3D printing

<p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">RPWORLD, one of the leading mechanical parts manufacturers in on-demand manufacturing, is proud to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2023. Founded in 2003, RPWORLD has been dedicated to providing rapid prototyping and on-demand production services tailored to the diverse needs of innovative industries all over the world. Over the past two decades, RPWORLD has successfully completed over 20,000 projects for more than 3,000 customers from 40+ countries, establishing itself as one of the fastest and most comprehensive manufacturing suppliers in the industry.</p><p dir="ltr">The key to RPWORLD&#39;s achievements lies in its comprehensive manufacturing model, which combines the changing customer needs with the on-demand manufacturing services. This approach allows RPWORLD to produce custom or complex-geometry components in the shortest time, also ensures the flexible and rapid manufacturing to help customers stay ahead in the competitive market.</p><p dir="ltr">To meet the increasing demand for its services, RPWORLD has continuously expanded its manufacturing capabilities. RPWORLD&rsquo;s recent acquisition of advanced equipment has enabled faster turnaround times and rapid iteration for customer product development. Ranging from 10 to 1,000 pieces, RPWORLD CNC machining delivers accurate and consistent parts in as fast as 3 days and meets DIN ISO 2768 M (F) standards. And the highly automated injection molding allows production runs ranging from 100 to over 100,000 pieces. The enhancement of its manufacturing capabilities makes it easier and faster for product developers to get prototype parts and high-volume parts and to accelerate product development cycles.</p><p dir="ltr">In celebration of this significant milestone, Simon, RPWORLD&#39;s CEO, expressed his gratitude to the customers, employees, and partners who have contributed to the company&#39;s growth and success over the past 20 years. He highlighted RPWORLD&#39;s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality manufacturing solutions and its dedication to continuous improvement.</p><p dir="ltr">Steve, the General Manager of RPWORLD, also emphasized the company&#39;s achievements in revolutionizing the manufacturing industry. He stated, &ldquo;Our customers are seeking manufacturing solutions that can adapt to the increasingly shorter product development life cycle, and RPWORLD is uniquely tailored to meet their needs, offering a comprehensive and one-stop manufacturing solutions from rapid prototyping to on-demand production. RPWORLD has successfully made the advanced manufacturing technologies accessible to innovative industries, from automotive parts, medical devices, scientific instruments and more.&rdquo;</p><p dir="ltr">RPWORLD&#39;s digital manufacturing capabilities, which include CNC machining, injection molding, vacuum casting, sheet metal fabrication, and surface treatment, have significantly accelerated time to market for customers while reducing development and production costs. By leveraging the power of expertise and infinite manufacturing capabilities, RPWORLD continues to minimize risk and enhance the overall product life cycle for customers.</p><p dir="ltr">As RPWORLD enters its 20th year of business operation, the company remains committed to pushing the boundaries of on-demand manufacturing and delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of its global customer base.</p>

Over the past two decades, RPWORLD has successfully completed over 20,000 projects for more than 3,000 customers from 40+ countries, establishing itself as one of the fastest and most comprehensive manufacturing suppliers in the industry.

RPWORLD Marks 20 Years of On-demand Manufacturing with Further Production Enhancement

Ender 3 Pro bed leveling results in better prints

The Creality Ender 3 Pro offers good value for money but lacks an automatic bed leveling feature. Fortunately, Ender 3 Pro bed leveling can be painless with the right tools and preparation.

Ender 3 (V2, Pro, S1, Neo) Bed Leveling: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide

Improve your Ender prints by adjusting retraction settings

The Creality Ender 3 is a reliable 3D printer, but it can still suffer from issues like oozing and stringing. Adjusting your Ender 3 retraction settings can help solve these problems.

The Best Ender 3 Retraction Settings

PLA (polylactic acid) is one of the most popular filaments for FDM 3D printing.

While acetone works in combination with ABS, it is not viable for smoothing PLA prints. Fortunately, there are alternatives to acetone for PLA. From chemical solvents to manual techniques, here are the ways you can post-process and smooth a PLA 3D print.


PLA and Acetone? Here are Better Ways to Smooth PLA 3D Prints

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ondemand manufacturing

On-Demand Manufacturing

Profiles