the digital thread

Your blog feed for manufacturing resources, in-depth features, and industry news.

aerospace engine

Aerospace Manufacturing in 2023

Posted On Monday, 29 May 2023 By Protolabs
In early 2023, a joint survey from the Royal Aeronautical Society and Protolabs was conducted to learn more about the aerospace sector’s most important concerns and top priorities. In this blog, Tim Robinson FRAeS examines the results.
Protolabs Blog

An Introduction to Design for Manufacture for Additive Manufacturing

Posted On Monday, 22 May 2023 By Protolabs
We’re going to be posting a mix of our industry insights, technical tips and manufacturing advice every week – so make sure you keep an eye out for our updates.
Framing the Future: How Additive Manufacturing is impacting Film & Entertainment

Framing the Future: How Additive Manufacturing is impacting Film & Entertainment

Posted On Monday, 1 May 2023 By Protolabs
The emergence of digital technology has made a profound impact on film making, and additive manufacturing is no exception to that trend. In this blog we dive a little deeper into how additive manufacturing is being put into action on the big screen.
supply chain

Building supply chain resilience: five solutions for strengthening your supply chain

Posted On Tuesday, 25 April 2023 By Protolabs
As the complexity of supply chains continues to grow and the number of unforeseeable disruptions increases, it is essential for businesses to develop a risk management strategy to address future disruptions. For organisations looking to build a resilient supply chain, this blog focuses on five key elements necessary for preparing for future disruptions.
Franka Emika Robot

Manufacturing Robotics Report: Technology and Project Survey

Posted On Monday, 17 April 2023 By Protolabs
In the final instalment of the Manufacturing Robotics Report we showcase global robotics projects and the various applications and industries robotics can serve
automated robots in manufacturing

Manufacturing Robotics Report: Manufacturing

Posted On Monday, 10 April 2023 By Protolabs
In the fourth chapter of the Manufacturing Robotics Report we examine the cutting-edge systems and technologies that enable the acceleration of the robotics industry. Covering industrial robotics as an innovation driver, manufacturing as a service, key manufacturing processes, and the advantages of digital manufacturing for robotics, this chapter takes you from robots that manufacture to manufacturing robots.
Robot arm holding chip

Manufacturing Robotics Report: Hardware

Posted On Monday, 3 April 2023 By Protolabs
The third instalment of the Manufacturing Robotics Report focuses on hardware, covering sensors, central processing units, control systems, motors and actuators, and more, alongside common challenges.
The first fully soft autonomous robot

Manufacturing Robotics Report: Materials

Posted On Monday, 27 March 2023 By Protolabs
The latest instalment of a five part series, this article takes a deep dive into materials covering the difference between traditional and soft robotics, a new generation of robotics materials, sustainability of robotics materials, applications for soft robotics, and more.
engineer with robot

Manufacturing Robotics Report: Introduction

Posted On Monday, 20 March 2023 By Protolabs
First in the five part series, this article provides an introduction to the current state of robotics technology and provides you with an overview of what to expect from the remaining articles.
satellite in space

How to select the right production partner to get your parts into space

Posted On Monday, 13 March 2023 By Protolabs
Selecting the right manufacturing partner is vital to ensure your project's success, but how can you be sure that you are making the right decision? We've listed three things you must consider when selecting your production partner.