Frequently asked questions

What are examples of topics around ideas and innovations that help promote end-to-end AM Trust?

Objective 1 – Standards

Promote standards and best practices (or otherwise offer guidance)

Create guidance, promote standards and define best practices in AM
Technologies include those needed to establish a trusted end-to-end digital thread for automated and connected manufacturing, such as additive and hybrid manufacturing, automation, cyber security, artificial intelligence (AI), advanced analytics, sensors, machines, robotics, computing and communications
Work with government (federal, state, local) to improve formulating and promoting regulations to address workplace safety and environmental impacts of AM

Broaden knowledge and abilities for AM workers within communities

Attract skilled and novice workers to the field of advanced manufacturing
Encourage High Schools, Vo-Tech, Community Colleges, Universities, and Industry to attract students and address training gaps in AM
Lower barriers for workforce training especially in underserved communities
Partner with government, industry, and academia to better promote advanced manufacturing

Simplify and expedite contracting

Simplify current procurement and acquisition processes in government and industry
Identify appropriate acquisition strategies for AM
Identify barriers that exist in acquisition statutes, regulations, and policies
Define methods of recourse to increase trust in AM

Define testing methods and rigorous exit criteria for AM part delivery acceptance

Identify test and certification approaches, methods, and solutions as needed or already exist to increase trust in AM
Name authorities that should be involved in defining and approving test and certification methods in AM

Leverage recent advances in market design to create a fair and efficient AM marketplace where:

Buyers can safely secure the highest quality AM solutions at the best value
Suppliers can bid confidently, avoid winner’s curse, and maximize profits
Contracts at various levels of complexity can be negotiated and won with simple and efficient rules
Competitive small to medium sized suppliers have equal opportunities to win contracts when competing against larger organizations
Collusion and predatory bidding behavior is prevented