Additive manufacturing (3D print)

Additive manufacturing (3D print) are a relative new process technology that increase in use.
First this was used in vax or plastics to make models in product development and as small prototypes. Now it is possible to use titanium, steel, etc (and even concrete).

Many industries see this an opportunity to change supply-chain from a traditional one to one where a printer is placed close to end-use. This may be feasible in some new products, but probably is even more relevant in a spare-part context.

Select a supplychain and write an essay that covers and compare the now and future supply-chain from factory to end user. The essay shall contain a focus on value adding- and lean management issues in warehouse and distribution to end-customer. This includes quality, time, and cost.
Be aware that there might be huge differences in global versus local supply-chain, and that time to market will have different value in different industries, like farm equipment versus petroleum industry or hospitals.

Expected volume is 6-10 pages. Use format similar to the journal papers in the Supplychain Module on canvas.
Minimum topics:
Abstract
Introduction/ Background
Theory/ Method
Analysis
Discussion
Conclusion
References