Project DIAMOnD Launches Peer-to-Peer Marketplace for 3D Printing

Project DIAMOnD, a large U.S. distributed 3D printing network led by Automation Alley and funded by Oakland County, has launched its new additive manufacturing marketplace—a secure, peer-to-peer platform where companies can submit 3D printing jobs at scale, and participating small manufacturers in Michigan can fulfill jobs collaboratively.

The marketplace is designed to leverage the network of printers for secure commercial transactions, while protecting intellectual property of the designs. Orders are distributed across participating manufacturers, with costs and payments shared.

The marketplace builds on the success of Project DIAMOnD's network, which has already surpassed 50,000 3D-printed parts since launching in 2020. Originally established through CARES Act funding, the initiative has provided grant-funded 3D printers and training to more than 500 Oakland County small manufacturers, technology companies and engineering firms. These businesses have leveraged their printers to create prototypes, produce end-use parts and fulfill urgent manufacturing needs, while remaining connected to a secure digital network capable of mobilizing production at scale.

"These accomplishments demonstrate the incredible potential of distributed manufacturing to strengthen supply chains, foster innovation and keep production local," says Pavan Muzumdar, CEO of Project DIAMOnD and COO of Automation Alley. "With the marketplace, we've created a mechanism for companies to access advanced additive manufacturing without having to own the equipment themselves. Designers don't even need a printer to benefit. They can simply submit their designs, have them produced securely across the network and know their intellectual property is protected."

How it works:

• Companies that want to print at scale via the Project DIAMOnD Marketplace can reach out to [email protected].
   
• Manufacturers interested in joining the network to receive a free 3D printer and training can apply through the "Join" form at www.projectdiamond.org.

The marketplace is designed to protect the intellectual property of designers while giving access to the distributed network. Jobs can be produced at higher volumes and faster speeds without requiring companies to purchase equipment. Designers don't need to own a 3D printer to benefit from the network. They can submit their designs and have them securely manufactured at scale by participating Project DIAMOnD members.

With the marketplace now live and 51,153 completed prints, the network has proven scalability and real-world impact of distributed manufacturing.

About Project DIAMOnD

Project DIAMOnD (Distributed Independent and Agile Manufacturing on Demand) is creating a large connected 3D printing network, enabling small and medium-sized manufacturers and tech companies to access Industry 4.0 tools and diversify production capabilitie. Funded by Oakland County in Phase 2 and powered by Automation Alley, the program provides participating businesses with grant-funded 3D printers, training, and access to a secure digital marketplace for on-demand production.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.