3D-Action 2.0: Discover the possibilities of additive manufacturing

The vision for 3D-action 2.0 is to establish a world-leading position for the Swedish industry in additive manufacturing (AM). Building upon the experiences of its predecessor project (3D-action), 3D-action 2.0 aims to serve as the catalyst that enhances awareness and knowledge about additive manufacturing and its benefits among small and medium-sized enterprises. Through this, these companies can enhance their opportunities to invest in and adopt intelligent technology.

The project contributes to increasing the procurement capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises for the commercialization of sustainable and digital solutions, leveraging the innovation potential offered by additive manufacturing (AM). Additionally, the project strengthens regional collaboration among companies, academia, business promoters, public organizations, and large corporations - stakeholders primarily representing business development, practical manufacturing applications, sustainability perspectives, and innovations. The aim of the project is simply to provide small and medium-sized enterprises with the right support in transitioning to AM technology for a more competitive operation.

The driving forces for the implementation of additive manufacturing vary across different industries. It could be lower carbon footprint, shorter lead times, opportunities for innovative design, lightweight solutions, part consolidation, decentralized manufacturing, and digital inventories. Or perhaps just sheer curiosity? The threshold to begin using additive manufacturing may seem high, but through the 3D-Action 2.0 project, small and medium-sized enterprises can receive guidance and support to ensure that the company chooses the right level and direction right from the start.

3D-Action is setup in three major activities involving:

1. Breakfast and Inspiration Seminars, showcasing the possibilities of additive manufacturing and a range of different aspects such as design, manufacturing, sustainability, diversity, digitization, spare parts, and more.
2. Company visits and feasibility studies, involving 3D-Action 2.0 team members visiting a number of companies in the region interested in additive manufacturing. The aim is to assess the potential use of the technology through structured dialogue with the companies and provide recommendations for next steps.
3. Transition Phase, comprising cost-free workshops focused on the opportunities with additive manufacturing for the companies identified as having potential to use the technology. These workshops are conducted in connection with the Application Center for Additive Manufacturing.

The Application Center for Additive Manufacturing

3D-Action 2.0 is an independent project, but with a connection to the Application Center for Additive Manufacturing through shared infrastructure and personnel. This ensures that small and medium-sized enterprises in Västra Götaland receive strong and sustainable support, where new research findings are directly communicated to the right stakeholders through the 3D-Action 2.0 project. Additionally, it creates a platform for co-creation and knowledge transfer, where partner companies in the Application Center for Additive Manufacturing are connected with the region's small and medium-sized enterprises.

Good examples from participants in 3D-Action

Here are two companies sharing their experiences with additive manufacturing, both opportunities and challenges:

3D Printing unlocks new opportunities for Totech 
How additive manufacturing transformed Nordholms

Participate in a feasibility study

Within the framework of the 3D-Action 2.0 project, your company may have the opportunity to participate in a cost-free feasibility study. This will help you identify how additive manufacturing could be utilized in your operations, how the technology could enhance competitiveness, and contribute to a more sustainable production.

Read more about the feasibility study here.

Funding 

The project is co-financed by the European Union, the Västra Götaland Region (VGR), and RISE through the Application Center for Additive Manufacturing.