Solving real problems using virtual and physical solutions
Dimanex is working on faster, cheaper and more sustainable solutions for the supply chain. As part of its efforts to that end, it recently participated in the global SAS Hackathon
The supply chain has regularly experienced major disruptions in recent years. From geopolitical tensions, rising raw material prices, tightness on the labour market to the announcement of increased import tariffs by President Trump. All this puts the economic playing field on edge and means that companies are faced with a complex puzzle. They are forced to find alternative solutions and innovation is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.
For many companies, additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, offers a promising solution. What was once seen as a niche prototyping solution has now become a strategic pillar for agility, cost savings and sustainability in the supply chain. An example of a party that focuses on this is Dimanex. At the recent SAS Hackathon, the team demonstrated how they can dramatically optimize supply chains using advanced supply chain software in combination with the SAS Viya AI and analytics solution.
Tackling complex supply chains
The traditional supply chain is under pressure. On the one hand, due to globalization, which has made chains increasingly complex and dependent on suppliers from distant markets. On the other hand, the increased demand for just-in-time deliveries creates a difficult balance between cost reduction and reliability.
In addition, there are more current challenges at play, including geopolitical instability, raw material shortages that cause fluctuating availability of materials leading to delays and higher prices and logistics disruptions. On top of this, there is additional pressure on sustainability, because companies must meet stricter environmental requirements and be transparent about their ecological footprint.
These challenges make it clear that traditional models are no longer sufficient. Companies increasingly need technologies that can provide flexibility and efficiency.
The benefits of additive manufacturing
This is exactly where additive manufacturing can offer a solution. It offers the opportunity to produce products locally, making companies less dependent on international suppliers. This shortens delivery times and reduces transport costs.
Products can be produced on-demand. This way, parts are only produced when they are needed. This reduces the need for large stocks and reduces the risk of surpluses or shortages of certain products. And by only producing material that is needed, waste is also significantly reduced. Furthermore, this technology can use sustainable or recycled materials, which is a good step towards a circular economy.
And while traditional production often becomes more expensive with complex designs, the cost-efficiency of 3D printing remains constant. This opens the door for innovative products and customized solutions.
Finally, additive manufacturing offers resilience to disruptions. In times of crisis - think of a pandemic or geopolitical blockade - 3D printing can act as a fast and flexible way to restart production, without having to wait for external parties.
Add a touch of AI and analytics
Additive manufacturing already offers several very nice advantages, but this can also be made smarter. This is what Dimanex, a partner of SAS, focuses on. They provide software that combines 3D printing technology with data analysis and AI. Customer data can be used to identify which parts are suitable for 3D printing, both technically and economically. The software quantifies the benefits in terms of time, money and the environment, providing companies with the economic and environmental rationale for 3D printing technology.
In addition, Dimanex uses AI-based data analysis that works effectively even with incomplete or inaccurate data. This allows the right data-driven decisions to be made at an early stage in the supply chain. By mapping more comprehensive data correlations, this approach enables companies to make integrated and accurate decisions that not only optimize time and costs but also minimize environmental impact.
Companies are also becoming less dependent on physical supply, thanks to Dimanex's “asset light” software-based service model. They do not have their own 3D printers but work together with partners who have the right 3D printing technology, who can immediately respond to customer demand.
Towards a sustainable future
Additive manufacturing is more than a production process; it is a strategic tool to transform business models. By using advanced SAS technology, Dimanex helps customers get more value from their data, identify opportunities faster and implement sustainable improvements. Thanks to these innovations, Dimanex and SAS are working together towards a future in which supply chains are not only more efficient, but also more resilient and sustainable.
