Markforged Launches Digital Source Platform for Distributed Manufacturing

Markforged Holding Corp. unveils Digital Source, an on-demand parts platform built to enable the licensing and 3D-printing of manufacturer-certified parts when and where they are needed, without needing physical inventory management.

Digital Source allows vendors to upload digital part designs that can be securely licensed to customers, distributors, and contract manufacturers. Once uploaded, Digital Source end users will have ability to license the right to print parts onsite or through a network of approved print service providers. 

“Digital Source unlocks a new way of managing supply chains. Every day a manufacturing line is down due to broken or worn parts can cost millions of dollars in lost productivity. Availability of spare parts is critical to manufacturers’ success—but keeping an extensive physical inventory ties up capital in parts that may go untouched for years,” says Shai Terem, CEO of Markforged.

“Digital Source not only can simplify logistics, but can also build resiliency into the supply chain and increase profitability as a result of these efficiencies,” Terem adds. “With Digital Source, parts can be digitized and printed at the time and point of need without the need to be manufactured in advance, shipped and stored until needed.”

Digital Source is designed to offer consistent, turnkey production for 3D-printed parts. Markforged is delivering digital warehousing by integrating 3D printing software, materials and hardware with end-to-end process control. Vendors can specify and lock printing process requirements so that customers get manufacturer-certified parts on demand. Robust security safeguards digital part files, and encrypted print instructions are sent directly to printers to protect designs, allowing customers to just “Press Print.”

Customers and service centers can print design revisions directly from Digital Source–removing the waste from the disposal of outdated parts and the risk of installing the wrong part version.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.

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