Integrated traditional and additive manufacturing production profitability model

Production decision-makers now have a choice of production technologies. Decision-makers are familiar with “Traditional Manufacturing” (TM) technologies. In favorable circumstances, emerging “Additive Manufacturing” (AM) technology now offers more flexibility to modify the manufacturing environment and improve production logistics efficiency to enhance profits over a production schedule. This paper presents research, process methodologies, and a practical approach to the profit-based economic decision-modelling for production planning in a manufacturing environment resourced with both TM and AM technologies. The research identifies a framework for production leaders and managers to implement efficiency measures while adapting or refining AM production in an existing TM production environment. The paper also outlines opportunities for future research toward the objective of optimizing production technology assignments within a mixed-resource manufacturing environment.