On April 23, Siemens PLM Software launched its new Additive Manufacturing Network. This platform for sharing materials, software tools and printing technologies is designed to facilitate application of additive manufacturing in industry.
Right now, demos of the Additive Manufacturing Network are available upon request but full access is granted only through the Early Adopters Program. Partners such as Stratasys Direct Manufacturing, a 3D printing service, can use the network to find customers who require custom-printed parts as well as buy materials from vendors. Another early adopter, printing company HP, is offering access to providers of its Multi Jet Fusion 3D printer to partners in the program. HP is also working with GoProto to connect specifically with clients looking to 3D print manufacturing prototypes.
A centralized database for 3D printing software is nothing new, but the Additive Manufacturing Network was created with the intention of streamlining material purchases and providing a central address for connecting designers, manufacturers and basically anyone who needs specially customized parts for their industry. Although there are online communities like the subreddit /r/3Dprintmything which connect individuals who want something printed with those who have 3D printers, the Additive Manufacturing Network targets companies and industries as a whole. The express goal of Siemens in introducing this network is to facilitate adoption of additive manufacturing by industries on a large scale.
For more information on industrial additive manufacturing, check out our overview here.