Distributed Production Node Selection for Customized Local Manufacturing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing manufacturing and distribution systems face challenges in efficiently producing and delivering personalized physical products due to long distances between production and consumption points, leading to increased delivery times and costs, and the inability to pre-position items for faster delivery.
Innovation Solution
A distributed manufacturing system that allows users to design and customize products using digital information, enabling production at remote points of production (POPs) closest to the end-point, utilizing a network architecture with feature and customization servers to manage production, shipping, and delivery, and select optimal production nodes based on factors like location, cost, and environmental impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If products are produced at a central location, then manufacturing efficiency is improved, but delivery time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized manufacturing system into multiple distributed production nodes located geographically closer to end customers. Each node can independently produce products, transforming a single centralized facility into a network of smaller production units that reduce delivery distances while maintaining overall manufacturing capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a digital dimension by transmitting product design information (digital models, specifications) across the network to distributed nodes. This allows physical production to occur locally at multiple nodes simultaneously, rather than transporting physical goods from a single central location, effectively adding a spatial dimension to the manufacturing system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If products are personalized at the point of manufacture, then customer customization is improved, but pre-positioning capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables pre-positioning of standardized product components and base models at distributed production nodes before customization is requested. When a customer places an order, the system transmits specific customization parameters digitally, and the local node applies these to the pre-positioned base product, combining advance preparation with last-minute personalization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic system where product configurations can be adjusted in real-time based on customer input. The digital transmission of customization parameters allows the production nodes to adapt product specifications dynamically between order placement and manufacturing, enabling both pre-positioning of base models and on-demand personalization.
3Loss of energy
If distributed production nodes are implemented, then delivery cost is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs distributed production nodes with universal capabilities to handle multiple product types and customization configurations using the same core infrastructure. Each node can produce various products by receiving different digital parameter sets, eliminating the need for specialized equipment at each location and reducing overall system complexity despite the increased number of production points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses digital copying of product design information and specifications to replicate product configurations across multiple distributed nodes. Instead of physically transporting tools, molds, or equipment, the system transmits digital blueprints and parameter sets that can be instantiated at any node, simplifying the deployment and management of distributed production capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, computer program product, and system are disclosed. The method, when implemented in a computer system, includes obtaining product information, selecting a production node from a plurality of production nodes, and communicating production information to the production node. The product information is configured to facilitate production of a product. The selecting performed by the computer system comprises determining a physical location of a destination of the product and identifying the production node. The identifying is based, at least in part, on the physical location and one or more production criteria. The production information comprises information identifying the product. The computer system is configured to communicate with each production node of the plurality of production nodes. The communicating is configured to result in production of the product by the production node.