SAP SE today launched the next phase in its initiative to transform industrial 3D printing into a seamless distributed manufacturing process by opening up the program to a growing list of co-innovation customers.
SAP and UPS co-launched a website today to expand the early testing and validation phase of the program to a select number of partners worldwide including Airbus APWorks, Fast Radius, HP Inc., Krones, Linear AMS, Moog Inc., Sealed Air Corporation and Stratasys.
SAP and UPS previously announced a distributed manufacturing collaboration to connect the manufacturing floor to the customer door. The collaboration integrates SAP solutions for the extended supply chain and Internet of Things with the UPS additive manufacturing and logistics network.
"The successful transition of 3D printing from prototyping to manufacturing requires integration with business IT systems. HP understands the importance of end-to-end integration to maximize efficiency and technology adoption and is joining the SAP co-innovation program to help bring this to life," said Scott Schiller, vice president, 3D market development, HP. "Powered by HP Multi Jet Fusion technology, HP delivers a manufacturing-ready solution for end-part production as well as an open software platform to connect to business IT systems. With leadership from SAP and collaboration with other innovators in the industry, 3D printing will more quickly move into mainstream manufacturing and streamline supply chains."
Registration for the early adopters program is now open globally through January 2017, including Asia and Greater China, which are now served by the expansion of the UPS 3D printing network, announced yesterday. Participating companies can explore distributed manufacturing benefits including reduction in parts inventories, cost-effective short production and prototype runs, quick delivery of parts, and access to 3D printing capabilities.
"SAP and UPS are leading the way with their distributed manufacturing solution," said Rick Smith, co-founder and CEO, Fast Radius. "This is a critical component that enables Fast Radius to realize its vision of a globally distributed network for on-demand manufacturing."
"SAP Distributed Manufacturing can enable unprecedented opportunities to revolutionize design, manufacturing, logistics processes and business models," said Hans Thalbauer, senior vice president, extended supply chain, SAP. "We are bringing together the innovative power of our customers and partners with SAP in this exciting next phase of our initiative to extend our reach and enable our vision for digital manufacturing."
