3D Printing Techniques for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises in Developing Countries

Original Article

Abstract

Every day technology forces us to innovate in production processes, offering different manufacturing methodologies applicable to infinite business opportunities. In Industry 4.0, this term involves the incorporation of digital technologies, related to the Internet connection in production processes., and in this, Additive Manufacturing stands out, it brings together technologies based on the manufacturing of symmetrical objects through the addition of material, including 3D printing. Taking the aforementioned as a reference, this work will be focused on identifying organizations, called SMEs, that have seen a way to redirect or create new production lines using additive manufacturing (3D Printing) in Latin America and mainly Ecuador. The methodology used in carrying out the study follows the approach known as “Desk Research”. This methodology involves a process of searching and selecting documentary material to generate knowledge based on evidence from previous research. Although in Ecuador there are several companies dedicated to 3D printing, the technology as such is not fully exploited. Ecuador currently promotes learning about Industry 4.0; however, everything indicates that it is not enough to be at the forefront of other Latin American countries, therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the technology culture from the government, academia and the economic sector.