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Message from the Editors
In Issue #13 of InnovatieNU, themed “Design2Manufacture,” we explore the evolving relationship between design and manufacturing, where digital tools and collaboration are transforming production. From product development to remanufacturing; design principles are reshaping industries, enabling smarter technologies, efficient processes, and sustainable practices. Join us as we uncover innovations driving the future of manufacturing.
Featured
From Sketch to Shelf
In product development, the journey from initial design to final product often results in significant changes. This article examines why these deviations occur, focusing on challenges like material selection, testing, and mass production constraints. By adopting a systems thinking approach and balancing vision with practicality, innovators can create products that are not only technically sound but also commercially viable.
Lessons Learned
To repair or to discard? Designing for slower consumption
Design plays a crucial role in shaping how we use, maintain, and discard technological devices. This article explores the ethical and environmental implications of designing for repairability, examining how the ‘Right to Repair’ movement challenges planned obsolescence and promotes sustainability, user empowerment, and a more responsible relationship with technology.
Remanufacturing is the new black
Remanufacturing restores used products to like-new condition, offering a smart way to cut costs and reduce waste. By learning how to design products for easy disassembly and repair, companies can unlock greater efficiency and extend product lifecycles. Adopting this approach enhances sustainability and profitability, making it a must-read for those seeking a competitive edge in today’s eco-conscious market.
Sustainable Design for Additive Manufacturing
From plastic recycling to advancing Design for Sustainability (DfS), 3devo is transforming additive manufacturing by embedding sustainability into every aspect of its operations. Through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions, the company is setting new industry standards, driving the future of 3D printing towards a greener, more sustainable path without compromising performance.
Sustainability
The Twilight of Lead Acid Batteries
Lead acid batteries (LABs) have powered industries for over 150 years but are now overshadowed by newer technologies like lithium-ion batteries. This article explores LABs’ historical role, current applications, and their gradual decline. It highlights LABs’ cost-effectiveness and reconditioning potential, showcasing how they can still offer value and sustainability in the evolving energy storage market.
AMC NU
AMC NU
Read more about what’s currently going on with the Advanced Manufacturing Program and our Advanced Manufacturing Centre, and discover the many innovation topics we can use our AMP subsidy for to support your business.
Technology & Innovation
An interview with Stephen Hooper, VP @Autodesk
Stephen Hooper, VP at Autodesk, discusses AI’s transformative impact on design and engineering. He highlights AI’s role in enhancing efficiency, automating tasks, and driving innovation. Autodesk’s AI-driven tools like generative design and BlankAI are explored, along with considerations of economic viability and responsible AI integration across industries.
Designing for the Future
The article explores Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM), emphasising its role in optimising product design by leveraging the unique capabilities of additive manufacturing (AM). It highlights the importance of understanding AM’s technologies, materials, and design constraints to maximise efficiency and quality. Simulation tools and innovative approaches further enhance DfAM’s potential, shaping the future of manufacturing.
AI on the move: Enhancing the transport and logistics landscape
The InsAIght project by CAPE Groep and FIP-AM@UT introduces an AI-driven scheduler to streamline dock slot planning for FarmTrans, enhancing efficiency and reducing idle time. How is AI transforming logistics by predicting truck arrivals and optimising scheduling? Discover the future of smart logistics.
The Design Process for Manufacturing: Complexities in Medical Engineering
The design and manufacturing of medical devices involve intricate challenges, including ensuring biocompatibility, managing manufacturing residues, and adhering to regulatory standards. This process requires thorough evaluation, effective cleaning, and clinical investigations to ensure safety and efficacy. Learn about the expertise needed to navigate these complexities in medical engineering.
Modularity of manufacturing systems
In the current market landscape, where product lifespans are shrinking and global competition is intense, Fraunhofer IPT focuses on modular manufacturing systems for efficient prototyping. Their research spans process development and modular production, leveraging digital tools to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness throughout the production lifecycle.
Design to Manufacture for Benchmark Almelo
Benchmark Almelo focuses on the practical integration of innovation and precision in electronics production, from design to manufacturing. Through collaboration with universities and industry, the company balances cost-efficiency, sustainability, and practical production. By incorporating advanced technology and circular design principles, Benchmark aims to deliver sustainable, reliable solutions while fostering industry dialogue and development.
KICK Sauber F1® Team & Additive Industries
This case study showcases how KICK Sauber F1® Team & Additive Industries are leveraging the freedoms of additive manufacturing to create safety critical titanium Ti6Al4V chassis inserts for their F1 race car. The entire process from design through to assembly and testing is presented, highlighting the value AM has brought to this F1 component, an industry where short lead times and parts of the highest quality are critical.
Redesigning injection experiences
As a University of Twente spin-off, Uneedle focuses on high-quality manufacturing and international compliance, aiming to revolutionise injections in vaccines, ophthalmology, and cancer treatments. Their patented silicon microneedles ensure ultra-sharp, reliable needles for painless, efficient drug delivery. Discover how Uneedle’s innovative technology is transforming healthcare with precise, minimally invasive injections.
Optimising Custom Interiors
Van Keulen Interieurbouw integrates advanced technologies like IronCAD, Para-Flex, and Dynfos ERP for seamless design-to-manufacture custom interiors. How are digital tools transforming bespoke manufacturing to balance creativity, precision, and sustainability? Discover their approach to optimising quality and efficiency.