4D printing technology has the potential to transform supply chains. Even in its nascent stage, the potential is evident. There are several ways in which companies can make use of this technology. One is the use during the design and development phase. Innovations can be practically tried out. It also helps reduce the maintenance and operations cost. Supply chains get more efficient. Customer servicing can take place in a more strategic manner. This is especially true for certain industries such as aerospace, logistics and in automotive. The future will involve a lot of this technology, so manufacturers must start incorporating such practices from the business research and development phase itself.

Source:https://sloanreview.mit.edu/article/transforming-manufacturing-and-supply-chains-with-4d-printing/

Uploaded Date:16 May 2019