Using Michigan-based industrial additive manufacturing services, a company was able to save time and money by 3D printing brackets that hold paint spray guns. The brackets typically cost the company $3,500 from a supplier, and also had long order times. The company found that the brackets could be 3D printed more quickly at the same strength for a third of the cost.

A Michigan manufacturer wanted to invest in Industry 4.0, but was challenged by the availability of workers with experience as robot operators, programmers, and engineers. They addressed this issue by investing in collaborative robots, which do not require advanced programming knowledge or experience. This decision allowed them to invest in their existing workforce, reducing the number of operators who are involved in repetitive, dull or dangerous processes, increasing job satisfaction and creating higher retention rates.

The end user can train the AI to identify objects by simply highlighting pixels in an uploaded image or images and then naming the image. The AI system will then use any end user camera input to "look for" the image desired. The system works by storing like images in a large neural network in the cloud. When it finds a match the system can then run a user defined script, like sending a message to a cell phone, or triggering the next work process. Company is based in metro Detroit.

Used 3D printing to design and print replacement rollers for liquor bottle labeling machine returning the machine to production in two days versus 8 week lead time from Italy.

Using 3D Printer to print a valve that goes on a OEM machine they sell. The valve is used in an extremely corrosive and harsh environment requiring strength and corrosion resistance. The complex part had to be outsourced and made of stainless steel and cost $100. The part is now made in house in carbon fiber on a 3D printer and costs $2 to make. This has made the company more curious about what else they can create, shifting the way they think about production and their business. CEO sites culture change as the most important outcome.