The impacts of additive manufacturing technology on lean manufacturing

Abstract

This paper aims to investigate how the use of 3D printing can facilitate the achievement of lean manufacturing objectives. The main goal of the study is to identify the similarities between the two concepts and evaluate how well they complement each other in terms of improving quality, productivity and reducing costs by eliminating waste.During this study, the methodology involved conducting a thorough and comprehensive examination of existing literature on lean manufacturing and additive manufacturing. The aim was to provide an overview of the relationship between these two concepts and gain insights into areas that require further research.Results obtained indicate a need for more comprehensive and detailed examination of the relationship between lean manufacturing and additive manufacturing in the existing literature. The study highlights the potential synergy between 3D printing and lean manufacturing, suggesting that their integration can enhance quality, productivity, and cost reduction through waste elimination. However, it is important to note that further empirical research is required to validate these findings and quantify the actual impact of combining these two concepts.This study’s limitation is that it relies exclusively on a literature review and does not include any experimental testing to verify the suggested connection between lean manufacturing and additive manufacturing.This study can help companies understand how the use of 3D printing can aid in achieving lean manufacturing objectives. Additionally, the study can provide insights into best practices for combining lean manufacturing and additive manufacturing and can help companies to optimise the benefits of both.The conducted literature review provides valuable insights into the relationship between 3D printing and lean manufacturing. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by synthesising and analysing previous studies, highlighting how 3D printing can potentially contribute to the achievement of lean manufacturing goals and how those two concepts can complement each other.