The festive season is upon us – time to put pen to paper and write our Christmas wish lists. Unfortunately, 6.2 million adults in Germany won’t be able to join in the fun because they struggle with writing and sometimes even reading, too, with their difficulties putting them at an inevitable social disadvantage. FACTUREE wants to help reduce this disadvantage, which is why the company is supporting the development of the IRMGARD app with a donation of over EUR 5,000.
Functional illiteracy doesn’t mean a lack of intelligence. It’s a product of individual underlying factors whose origins lie in the family, school, or ethnicity, for example. Nevertheless, sufferers are often not respected, endure hurtful experiences, and develop feelings of inadequacy. The nonprofit organization KOPF, HAND + FUSS (KHuF) offers a safe learning space for people with low literacy skills.
As part of their commitment to this issue, KHuF has developed the IRMGARD app, which helps functionally illiterate adolescents and adults learn to read and write. In the app, Irmgard Schwiderski – a real person after whom the app is named – explains the assignments and rules to the learners. With no prior knowledge required, users can develop and practice their reading and writing skills in around 280 exercises at different levels, all at their own pace and in a way that suits their needs.
FACTUREE’s donation helps finalize the development of the IRMGARD app
As a nonprofit organization, KOPF, HAND + FUSS gGmbH depends on grants and donations. FACTUREE is supporting the development of the IRMGARD app as part of a Christmas campaign with a donation of EUR 5,000. The entire donation will go toward programming the app, allowing a large number of assignments and additional levels to be added.
How it works: The IRMGARD app begins by introducing letters and sounds. Letters become syllables and then words, which users practice spelling correctly. Levels 6 to 9 focus on more complex grammar topics, while in the last level, users are encouraged to write their own texts. Learners can complete the app by sending a letter to Irmgard, who will reply if requested. Thanks to FACTUREE’s support, the app will now be given extra features and its development finalized.
FACTUREE already enjoys close ties with KHuF, using the latter’s co-working space TUECHTIG for some of their meetings, for example. TUECHTIG is a work community where knowledge and expertise are shared. It’s a place for people who value diversity and an inclusive working environment, and who want to work on projects on their own or with others.
Berlin-based Online Manufacturer sees positive trend in 2021 and continues its international expansion
FACTUREE affirms Online Manufacturing as a pan-European trend
Berlin, 22 November 2021 – Digital platform models are becoming more and more popular throughout Europe. This also applies to the procurement of custom engineering parts, as witnessed by Online Manufacturer FACTUREE (www.facturee.de). In 2021, the company saw a considerable increase in the usage rates of its B2B manufacturing platform – including from other European countries where FACTUREE already generates a third of its revenue. In order to further expand its international business, the Online Manufacturer is optimizing its service in more European languages such as Italian. Domestic demand is also continuing to grow – e.g. in segments that were severely affected by the coronavirus pandemic. FACTUREE currently has customers in 33 European countries.
Due to digitalization, classic linear business models are increasingly being replaced by platform models with data-driven services. With its B2B manufacturing platform, FACTUREE was able to increase sales considerably and hire new employees in 2021. The company is a trademark of cwmk GmbH and specializes in the procurement of custom engineering parts.
Benjamin Schwab, co-founder and CMO of FACTUREE, explains, “The demand from other European countries is huge. Every third euro of FACTUREE’s revenue already comes from outside Germany, with the French market being the biggest contributor. At the beginning of the year, we started our customer service in French and are already seeing excellent results. Our revenues in Europe have more than doubled compared with the beginning of the year. Starting in early 2022, we will also offer our multilingual customer service in Italian in addition to German, English, French, and Spanish.”
Benefits for customers from countries with lower local production capacity
Platform models such as FACTUREE’s B2B manufacturing platform are predestined for international use. FACTUREE has a network of more than 2000 production partners in nearly all areas – including CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology – with some 15,000 machines, enabling the company to always offer free capacities and short delivery times. The services are easy to access, even from other countries. Companies in countries with lower local production capacity, for instance, thus benefit from Europe-wide, easy-to-implement procurement processes.
Benjamin Schwab continues, ”The platform economy creates added value for all involved and has made Online Manufacturing a pan-European trend. However, the acceptance of digital procurement models still varies in the individual countries. Estonia, for example, is the forerunner in Europe in terms of acceptance and implementation of digitalization. Given its relatively small size, a striking number of our customers comes from there.”
Continuing growth at home – also in industries affected by the pandemic
FACTUREE’s business is growing in Germany as well – driven in part by the coronavirus pandemic. “This year, for example, we have had numerous projects with bicycle manufacturers and in aerospace technology. The positive development of our business makes us increasingly interesting for corporations. With our digital procurement process, we can deliver parts quickly and cost effectively – even when there are shortages of materials in the market. Another factor contributing to the growing acceptance among corporations is that we have made a number of changes this year in terms of compliance requirements. All in all, we have successfully taken our company to the next level,” concludes Benjamin Schwab.
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Profile of FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer:
cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 15000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.
Further information: www.facturee.de
Are you our new dream partner? We want to find out at the speed dating event at the Berlin-Brandenburg Supplier Day 2021 on 25 November in Berlin! The matchmaking event of IHK Potsdam and IHK Berlin brings together regional companies from different industry sectors. We look forward to meeting you!
Mechanical engineering meets industrial startups: The digital VDMA Startup-Summit on 29 November connects experienced and young industry players! Network with companies from mechanical engineering and the startup scene! Get to know us in the virtual exhibition or during video speed dating!
Online Manufacturing platform offers advantages to parts procurement such as constant availability of production capacities, short delivery times, and simple digital processes
Online Manufacturing platform offers advantages to parts procurement such as constant availability of production capacities, short delivery times, and simple digital processes
Berlin, November 10th 2021 – – Long established in the B2C sector, now also reaching industry, as more and more companies are setting up their own platforms. Networking all parties involved in the value creation chain and short, simple processes for the end customer are just two of the substantial benefits. The Online Manufacturer FACTUREE (www.facturee.de) with its B2B production platform is one of the forerunners in the procurement of custom engineered parts. Today, the network comprises around 2000 production partners and is growing exponentially. The approach is promising – not only when there are parts and material shortages – as it provides constant availability of production capacities, short delivery times, and cost savings.
The ifo Institute for Economic Research study “Industrial Digital Economy – B2B Platforms” that was carried out for the Bundesverband der Deutschen Industrie e.V [Federation of German Industries] highlights the fact that a flourishing industrial B2B platform ecosystem is currently developing in Europe and Germany. Unlike the established B2C platforms, this segment is still in the early phase of development. However, the study ascribes great significance to digital B2B platforms in German industry – according to the survey, this applies in particular to mechanical engineering and the steel industry.
Benjamin Schwab, co-founder and CMO at FACTUREE, states, “Germany and Europe have the potential to build up significant digital B2B platforms in some sectors. With FACTUREE, one of the first German production platforms established in 2017, we are now in such a strong position that we do not need to fear American or Chinese competition.”
FACTUREE is a trademark of cwmk GmbH and specializes in the procurement of custom engineering parts. Prototyping projects can be carried out as well as small and large series production. The production network currently has more than 2000 manufacturing partners in the areas of CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology with some 15,000 machines. All partners comply with the requirements of a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001.
B2B platforms ensure long-term competitiveness of German industry
“We had a solid start in 2017 and already knew at that time that our platform approach had great potential. In recent months, demand has virtually exploded. This reflects the increasing networking of markets and players on the one hand, while the benefits of Online Manufacturing become especially clear in times of material shortages. We also offer an alternative to the production and supply difficulties of conventional contract manufacturers during the coronavirus pandemic,” explains Benjamin Schwab.
As a B2B platform with a wide range of network partners and production techniques, FACTUREE can always offer free capacities and short delivery times. But the advantages are not only for customers. Benjamin Schwab continues, “Many of our manufacturing partners work with us because they no longer want to be restricted by the limitations of conventional contract manufacturing. Joining our production network gives them a strong multiplier effect and they receive tailored requests without wastage. B2B platforms are undoubtedly an important future model for all involved.”
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Profile of FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer:
cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 15000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.
Further information: www.facturee.de
More and more manufacturers join the platform approach: FACTUREE Online Manufacturing network grows to 2,000 partners
The manufacturing market is changing: Turnaround in favor of Online Manufacturing platforms
Berlin, 4th October 2021 – Conventional contract manufacturing by its very nature involves rigid structures, while customers prefer flexibility and agility in procurement. This development was driven even more by the coronavirus pandemic. The market for parts procurement is thus changing – Online Manufacturing platforms are becoming increasingly relevant, for both customers and manufacturers. Online Manufacturer FACTUREE (www.facturee.de) has seen exponential growth in manufacturing partners, especially in recent months. In four years, the network has grown to 2,000 partners – 40 percent of them in the past year. Manufacturers benefit from sales advantages, for example, when they join B2B manufacturing platforms.
The Online Manufacturer FACTUREE – a trademark of cwmk GmbH – has a production network of manufacturing partners from nearly every area, including CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology.
Benjamin Schwab, co-founder and CMO at FACTUREE, explains, “FACTUREE has seen an exponential increase in manufacturing partners, especially in recent months. Many of them no longer want to be restricted by the limitations of conventional contract manufacturing. Joining our production network gives them a strong multiplier effect and they receive tailored requests without wastage. B2B platforms like ours are undoubtedly the future of manufacturing.”
Through the FACTUREE network, customers have access to some 15,000 machines in various areas of manufacturing. All partners comply with the requirements of a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. The service scope includes prototyping projects as well as small and large series production.
The Online Manufacturing process – from the order to delivery
How Online Manufacturing works in detail: In the first step, the customer submits their drawings or uploads their 3D model to the FACTUREE website. Then the price is calculated, which is a largely automated process, but every request is also checked by a technical expert. Taking all relevant parameters into consideration, an optimized proposal is then made, often on the same day, but guaranteed within 48 hours.
Benjamin Schwab explains, “When calculating our proposal, we deliberately avoid using instant price engines. This is because they are forced to work with generous safety buffers in order to factor in the numerous hidden cost drivers that cannot yet be detected automatically with the current state of the art. We therefore use the advantages of automation combined with human verification to calculate the best possible price.”
After receiving the order, FACTUREE uses AI to select the most suitable manufacturing partner for each project with respect to quality and delivery time. The manufacturing partner is given a binding target quotation that they can simply accept. This eliminates the effort for preparing a proposal without being certain of getting the order.
Benjamin Schwab says, “The preferred delivery time affects the price. The more time the customer allows for manufacturing, the lower the price for our service. In addition, due to our intensive cooperation with the manufacturers and correspondingly high purchase volumes, we are given different price and delivery terms than a customer, for example, who is doing business with a contract manufacturer for the first time.”
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Profile of FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer:
cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 15000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.
Further information: www.facturee.de
While people in Germany are only gradually beginning to realize after the devastating weather disasters of recent months that the consequences of climate change could also affect Europe, the effects are already clearly visible and tangible in the South Pacific.
New Caledonia, a group of islands in the South Pacific belonging to France, is confronted with serious economic, ecological and social problems that are directly attributable to climate change. Extreme weather and high climate variability are affecting the island states in the South Pacific to an extent that we in Europe cannot imagine - or do not want. Until now, New Caledonia has met 80% of its electricity needs from conventional fossil fuel-fired power plants, contributing to global warming, albeit on a smaller scale. With the Prony wind power project, South Pole has implemented a sustainable solution to meet energy needs on the island nation. Emission-free electricity from wind power and 36,000 tons of CO2 saved per year: New Caledonia is providing an example of how efficient climate protection works.
New Caledonia - An endangered paradise
New Caledonia is located northeast of Australia in the Pacific Ocean. The island state with the main island Grande Terre and several side islands and atolls has a unique flora and fauna with many unique endangered animal and plant species. New Caledonia's economy consists largely of tourism, crafts, industry and mining.
Around 8 percent of all lateritic nickel ore deposits worldwide are located in New Caledonia - and the industries involved in mining and processing nickel ores are correspondingly extensive. Up to now, the island state has been satisfying the industry's hunger for energy with fossil fuels - and thus contributing to climate change. The changing climate is hitting the island states in the South Pacific hard.
The rising sea level - only a few millimeters per year - is already becoming evident today, especially on the shallow atolls. The rising seawater is causing the islands' freshwater resources to become saline, and at the same time storms and flooding are becoming more frequent.
The Prony project - Reduction of greenhouse gases according to the Gold Standard
New Caledonia is going carbon neutral - with this objective, a project of South Pole, an expert network of more than 500 employees from 30 countries, was launched back in 2018. FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer supports the Prony project by purchasing CO2 certificates and thus contributes to a long-term financing of the project.
With the Prony Wind Power Project, New Caledonia's energy needs are being met by a resource that is abundantly available on the island nation: Wind. The project includes a total of six wind farms at two locations, Kafeate and Prony. 116 wind turbines provide a total capacity of 31 MW and an estimated annual production of 40 GWh of emission-free electricity. However, zero emissions is not the only benefit the Prony project holds for New Caledonia. 50 new jobs have been created during the project, at least 26 of which are permanent. Noise pollution from the operation of the wind turbines is not a concern: The 116 wind turbines are installed in isolated areas along the coast.
The effectiveness of the Prony project in terms of climate protection is proven by the non-profit certification organization "The Gold Standard". The certification by the Swiss organization is awarded only to the projects that demonstrably lead to a reduction of greenhouse gases and at the same time contribute to the local environment and the social needs of the population.
FACTUREE: Climate protection as a matter of the heart
Climate protection has been a central concern for FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer - ever since the company was founded, and it is a corporate policy that is put into practice. For example, FACTUREE offsets all emissions generated during shipping - and is involved with expertise and passion when it comes to sustainable projects around the world. With the purchase of CO2 certificates, FACTUREE co-finances the Prony project - and thus clearly underlines once again the company's orientation as a pioneer in the field of climate protection.
Would you like to learn more about the Prony project and our activities for a greener future? Then get in touch with us right now!
A variable grid structure that changes its shape from a 6.5 m high cylinder to an 8 m diameter umbrella? A fascinating research project at Technische Universität München makes it possible: Experience the "Kinetic Umbrella", whose components come from our manufacturing network, on film or even live at the "KINETIC UMBRELLA OPENING": 🗓️ Friday, 10.09.2021, 15.30-17.30.
With its large network of production partners, online manufacturer meets requirements flexibly and guarantees stable procurement processes
Supply bottlenecks in industry slow down economic recovery – Online Manufacturing with FACTUREE ensures stable supply chains
Berlin, 19th August 2021 – Industrial production in Germany has slowed significantly. Material shortages and supply bottlenecks could cost the German economy 25 billion euros by the end of the year, according to a recent survey “Significance of supply bottlenecks for ongoing production in Germany” conducted by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW). With Online Manufacturing by FACTUREE (www.facturee.de) companies can counteract delays in material procurement and delivery difficulties. The approach facilitates stable procurement processes by rapidly adapting to actual conditions. FACTUREE has a network of more than 1000 production partners and around 8000 machines.
The current empiric analysis by IfW reports that German industry receives many production orders, but there are often shortages of the raw materials needed. Among other things, this can be attributed to delays in global supply chains. Another recent survey from the Ifo Institute for Economic Research shows that the number of companies experiencing problems with upstream deliveries and the ensuing bottlenecks rose from 45 to 63.8 percent between April and July.
Moritz König, CEO of FACTUREE, states: “Nearly two thirds of manufacturing businesses in the country are struggling with material shortages. The coronavirus pandemic in particular has been identified as the trigger of the current difficulties. Supply routes are still heavily affected in many areas – the supply bottlenecks result in significant disruptions to production in many companies in the industrial sector.”
Meeting greatly increased demand for engineered parts
It is not only the supply routes that are affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The industrial sector has seen a sharp rise in demand for engineered parts, especially after the lockdowns.
Moritz König says, “The development in engineered parts is leading to full order books for contract manufacturers, but also to faster capacity utilization and there are often not enough free capacities. With our concept, we can compensate for market imbalances. Our production network is better situated to meet increased demands because we are always informed of the capacities of our production partners and can distribute orders. We can thus offer short delivery times even in the current situation and are unconditionally in a position to deliver.”
The FACTUREE network has more than 8000 machines available at all times for projects in the areas of CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven, ISO 9001 certified quality management system. Our services include prototyping projects as well as small and large series production.
Moritz König continues, “For every project, FACTUREE uses AI to select the most suitable manufacturer with respect to quality, price, and delivery time. With our approach, the risk of a serious delay is considerably lower than with conventional contract production. As an Online Manufacturing network, we can avoid supply bottlenecks even in difficult times through redeployment and quickly adapt our activities to the situation, while our logistics partners ensure reliable delivery to our customers.”
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Profile of FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer:
cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 8000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.
Further information: www.facturee.de
Empirical study shows growing demand for advanced digital solutions to support purchasing and supply chain management
Digital study by Würzburg University and Leipzig University of Applied Sciences confirms: High potential for Online Manufacturing such as from FACTUREE
Berlin, 17th August 2021 – The use of advanced digital solutions in purchasing and SCM is gaining ground. However, many companies are still in the orientation phase. These are just two of the findings of a recent empirical study by Prof. Dr. Ronald Bogaschewsky (Würzburg University) and Prof. Dr. Holger Müller (Leipzig University of Applied Sciences). The resulting study – "Advanced Digital Solutions to Support Purchasing and SCM" – conducted with the participation of 228 companies also revealed that new procurement methods via online manufacturers such as FACTUREE (www.facturee.de) are an increasingly popular option and have a high potential.
The demand for modern digital solutions that provide information on global procurement markets, suitable suppliers, and supply chain risks is growing. In the context of the study, these included tools and platforms that use big data analytics, social media analytics, artificial intelligence and the like to support users, in particular for strategic tasks. For the research, it was irrelevant whether these technologies are developed and implemented by the company itself or provided as software/platform as a service (SaaS/PaaS) by a platform or service provider.
More than 70% of participants rated global transparency regarding relevant providers to be "important" or "very important", which highlights the great importance of the issue for companies.
Further, participants were asked about the current status of their use of advanced digital systems for the purpose of gaining a high degree of transparency of the global procurement market and of providers. Some 6.6 percent of participants reported that they already use such a system, 10.6 percent are still in the "introduction/test phase", and another 13.3 percent have "definitely planned to introduce one". Only 13.7 percent are planning "no use" in the years ahead.
According to the findings, the use of advanced digital solutions in purchasing is hindered in particular by insufficient time and personnel resources, but also by the lack of technical expertise, inadequate budgets, and an insufficient understanding of existing solutions.
Increasing focus on Online Manufacturing
Online Manufacturing is a new field in modern procurement that can help save resources, among other things. Manufacturing platforms and networks for parts procurement are becoming more relevant.
The result shows that the companies surveyed consider internet platforms to be important for various categories of products. The use of platform solutions for classic catalogue products is more widespread than the use of platform solutions for configurable goods. Up to now, the development is less advanced for customized engineered parts. According to a survey, some 10 percent currently use relevant platforms for engineered parts and another 2.1 percent are in the process of introducing them, while 8.5 percent have no specific plans to deploy them.
The Online Manufacturer FACTUREE – a trademark of cwmk GmbH – specializes in the procurement of custom-made engineered parts. FACTUREE has an extensive production network with currently more than 1000 manufacturing partners in the areas of CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology with approx. 8000 machines available.
Benjamin Schwab, Head of Marketing & Sales at cwmk GmbH, explains: "Even though the figures in the study are still rather modest for custom-made engineered parts, the findings show that there is a high potential, with 42.6 percent reporting that they have already developed initial ideas for its use. This highlights the fact that there will be a growing demand for platforms for custom-made engineered parts. The results also show that service providers are ahead of industry – 18.5 percent of them use the relevant platforms, in industry, only 10.3 percent."
A broad range of network partners and production techniques
FACTUREE's key advantages include the fact that free capacities and short delivery times are always guaranteed. This allows lower costs, greater efficiency, and more reliable deliveries to be achieved. Prototyping projects can be executed as well as small and large series production.
"Today, big data and artificial intelligence are ever more essential in the procurement process. We predict that production networks will continue to drive this development. As a result of the networking of markets and driven by the coronavirus pandemic, Online Manufacturing has also experienced a boost due to its advantages such as provider independence and flexible decentralized production capacities," says Benjamin Schwab.
The study "Fortgeschrittene digitale Lösungen zur Unterstützung von Einkauf und SCM 2021" [Advanced Digital Solutions to Support Purchasing and SCM 2021] is available in German and can be downloaded at: https://cfsm.de/fortgeschrittene-digitale-lösungen-zur-unterstützung-von-einkauf-und-scm
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Profile of FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer:
cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 8000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.
Further information: www.facturee.de
Even with rising material costs, FACTUREE holds prices steady with its network of over 1000 manufacturing partners and growing order volumes
Stable prices despite raw material shortages through Online Manufacturing with FACTUREE
Berlin, 7 July 2021 – According to the 2020 IMP index of the “Information Service of the German Economic Institute”, the raw material costs for metal processing companies in Germany rose by more than 20 percent within twelve months – from the end of 2019 to the end of 2020. Industrial supply chains are disrupted by a shortage of raw materials in many places, leading to higher prices for manufacturing companies. The Online Manufacturing concept of FACTUREE (www.facturee.de) can mitigate these effects. With a network of more than 1000 manufacturing partners and an increase in orders, the company can guarantee stable prices.
The “Information Service of the German Economic Institute” reports that at the end of 2020, the industrial metal price (IMP) index reached its third-highest rate since it was introduced ten years ago. This development is due, among other things, to low supplies of raw materials because metal mines all around the world produced lower quantities of raw materials or were completely shut down as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. At the same time, however, demand is above average.
“The high demand for raw materials coupled with low supply levels has led to enormous price increases for many manufacturers. With our concept of Online Manufacturing, we are not subject to this pressure and can ensure stable prices with the same high quality. We use AI to identify the most suitable manufacturer for each project in terms of quality, price, and delivery time,” says Moritz König, CEO of FACTUREE.
The FACTUREE network has more than 8000 machines available at all times for projects in the areas of CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven, ISO 9001 certified quality management system. Prototyping projects can be carried out as well as small and large series production.
Moritz König continues, “At FACTUREE, prices are adjusted only if absolutely necessary. We do not pass on higher material prices to our customers, which helps them to make reliable long-term calculations. This is possible because our steadily growing network and increasing order volumes allow us to negotiate better prices without any fluctuations in quality. Online Manufacturing improves flexibility and facilitates stable procurement processes by rapidly adapting to the current situation. This gives us a competitive edge over conventional manufacturing.”
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Profile of FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer:
cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 8000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.
Further information: www.facturee.de
Department of architecture at the Technical University of Munich utilizes Online Manufacturing for the prototype of a semi-elastic grid structure
FACTUREE produces joint component for the "Kinetic Umbrella" research project at TUM
Berlin, 24 June 2021 – How can spatially complex variable processes be implemented through the controlled elastic deformation of grid bars? In this context, the “Kinetic Umbrella” research project at the department of architecture at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) investigates the applicability of flexurally elastic mechanisms in the area of variable grid structures. Currently, a prototype for the first semi-elastic variable grid structure is being developed. As this requires customized components, the department decided to collaborate with Online Manufacturer FACTUREE (www.facturee.de) which supplies small-format joint component for the nodes.
As part of a doctoral thesis on “Elastic Mechanisms in Grid Structures”, fundamental concepts were developed and successfully implemented in static applications within the “Kinetic Umbrella” research project. The development includes methods of mechanical simulation, the morphology of elastic mechanisms, architectural and constructive approaches, as well as suitable materials.
In the next step, the potential of such mechanisms for variable constructions will be investigated. For this purpose, a prototype for the first semi-elastic variable grid structure will be developed, featuring a foldable umbrella design with a diameter of eight meters.
Online Manufacturer supplies special component for prototype
“We produce some of the components in our own workshops at TUM. However, when we reach the technical limits of our facilities, we involve third-party suppliers. This was the case in our current project in the production of aluminum extruded profiles. When producing prototypes, it is common practice to have some components made by third parties,” explains M.Sc. Jonas Schikore, civil engineer and research associate at the Technical University of Munich.
Against this background, TUM decided to collaborate with Online Manufacturer FACTUREE. FACTUREE is a trademark of cwmk GmbH and has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners, mainly in the areas of CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology. In the “Kinetic Umbrella” project, the company supplies special components for the nodes of the variable grid structure.
“The components procured through FACTUREE are small-format joint components. The aluminum component can be attached eccentrically to GRP laminates and forms the socket for a pivot bolt. It has inner threads and is suitable for a direct friction-lock connection with the connecting component. It is optically particularly appealing due to the surface treatment,” explains M.Sc. Jonas Schikore.
On-time deliveries of high-quality customized components
With the Online Manufacturer, TUM utilizes a state-of-the-art form of procurement. The online network approach allows customized components to be manufactured with a high level of precision and to be delivered quickly by specialized suppliers. However, FACTUREE is the only contract partner involved, being responsible for selecting the most suitable manufacturer and handling the entire process. The key factors for TUM to have their parts provided by FACTUREE included the convenient contact, the preparation of a timely quotation, and the reasonable delivery times.
“At the chair for structural design, we build prototypes and new developments on a regular basis for our research projects. With FACTUREE, we can now react quickly and efficiently, because the Online Manufacturer offers a wide production range, good prices and quality, and fast provision times. We were very impressed with the quality of the components supplied. Delivery was on time, perceptibly easing our planning and construction process. We will turn to FACTUREE again for further needs in the future,” concludes M.Sc. Jonas Schikore.
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Online Manufacturing of Aluminum Component for Prototype in the “Kinetic Umbrella” Project of the Department of Architecture at the Technical University of Munich
FACTUREE produces a joint component for nodes of a variable grid structure for a research project at TUM
The “Kinetic Umbrella” research project at the department of architecture at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) investigates the applicability of flexurally elastic mechanisms in the area of variable grid structures. The controlled elastic deformation of the grid bars enables spatially complex variation processes. An international collaboration with industry was launched to build a prototype for the first semi-elastic variable grid structure. TUM commissioned Online Manufacturer FACTUREE with producing the small format joint components for the nodes.
One of the main focus areas of the department of architecture at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) includes the research and development of innovative building technologies. As part of a doctoral thesis on “Elastic Mechanisms in Grid Structures”, fundamental concepts were already developed and successfully implemented in static applications within the “Kinetic Umbrella” research project. The development includes methods of mechanical simu¬lation, the morphology of elastic mechanisms, architectural and constructive approaches, as well as suitable materials.
In the next step, the potential of such mechanisms for variable constructions will be investigated. For this purpose, a prototype for the first semi-elastic variable grid structure will be developed, featuring a foldable umbrella design with a diameter of eight meters.
Production of prototype with components from Online Manufacturer
M.Sc. Jonas Schikore, civil engineer and research associate at the Technical University of Munich, explains, “Some of the components are produced in our own workshops at TUM. However, when we reach the technical limits of our facilities, we involve third-party suppliers. This was the case in our current project in the production of aluminum extruded profiles. When producing prototypes, it is common practice to have some components made by third parties.”
For planning the prototypes, TUM uses mainly 3D models. Specialized manufacturers are often brought on board to support the process.
“In the construction sector, you always need customized components sooner or later. Our focus is on the research and development of innovative building technologies. As our developments need to account for the industrial processes in order to yield practical solutions and technologies, we are in constant contact with industry for this,” says M.Sc. Jonas Schikore.
Against this background, TUM decided to collaborate with Online Manufacturer FACTUREE, which they had learned about through an internet search, because building the prototype requires customized components. The department of architecture could easily upload 3D models in FACTUREE’s online interface and obtained a calculation within 24 hours. Other competitors did not react to inquiries as quickly.
FACTUREE is a trademark of cwmk GmbH and has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners, mainly in the areas of CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology. In the “Kinetic Umbrella” project, the company supplies the joint component for the nodes of the variable grid structure.
“The components procured through FACTUREE are small-format joint components. The aluminum component can be attached eccentrically to GRP laminates and forms the socket for a pivot bolt. It has inner threads and is suitable for a direct friction-lock connection with the connecting component. It is optically particularly appealing due to the surface treatment,” explains M.Sc. Jonas Schikore.
Fast provision times and on-time deliveries
With the Online Manufacturer, TUM utilizes an especially modern form of procurement. The online network approach allows customized components to be manufactured with a high level of precision and be delivered quickly by specialized suppliers. However, FACTUREE is the only contract partner involved, being responsible for selecting the most suitable manufacturer and handling the entire process.
TUM decided to have their parts provided by FACTUREE because of the convenient contact, the preparation of a timely quotation, and the reasonable delivery times.
M.Sc. Jonas Schikore reports, “We were able to lower the costs of the components after some consultations. For us, the obvious strengths of FACTUREE include the ease of transmitting data and the fast, reliable quotation. The direct personal communication and consulting was also decisive for the smooth procedure. Our contacts responded immediately to our email inquiries and telephone support was also readily available. The cooperation thus far was appraised by our employees to be positive and competent as well.”
Online Manufacturing will continue to be an option in the future
In future projects, TUM will continue to rely on high-quality components and optimized costs. “At the chair for structural design, we build prototypes and new developments on a regular basis for our research projects. With FACTUREE, we can now react quickly and efficiently, because the Online Manufacturer offers a wide production range, good prices, and fast provision times. We were very impressed with the quality of the components supplied. Delivery was on time, perceptibly easing our planning and construction process. We will turn to FACTUREE again for further needs going forward,” concludes M.Sc. Jonas Schikore.
So, what is that object standing in the entrance area of the FACTUREE office? If you approach, you will see a 3D labyrinth with very special content. Numerous hexagons form a structure and the whole thing even moves. What exactly is going on here?
Many may remember it from their childhood days: the ball maze. This was the inspiration for the final assignment of our intern Stephan Winkler. As part of his project, a state-of-the-art interactive construct was created that is much more than a toy: It contains numerous manufactured components. Together with David Recheni, a member of the IT department, the FACTUREE intern designed a machine that incorporates the most common manufacturing processes and materials used by FACTUREE and also adds a playful aspect for the user.
Once the idea was born to create a construction of a mechanically driven three-dimensional labyrinth, the two employees went into the planning and implementation of their vision. After a lot of thinking and practical work, they finally came up with an octahedron stump about two meters high that can be freely controlled and moved by remote control, with a navigable sphere inside the large 3D object. The end result: a state-of-the-art XXL-version of the ball maze.
Keeping the ball rolling: Control via controller and app
And how does this work exactly? The construction is a volume body that can be moved rotationally on two axes by electrically controlled motors. In this labyrinth, a ball is controlled by rotating the axes on the respective sides of the cube. The goal is to "travel" over as many of the surfaces as possible in a certain amount of time or to reach a predefined point in a certain amount of time.
The modern sculpture is controlled by a controller designed and 3D printed by FACTUREE employees. It contains two joysticks to control the respective axes separately, making it easy to operate the machine. The object can also be controlled via an app on a smartphone.
The sculpture is sure to have a lasting impression on most visitors: in addition to its sophisticated functionalities, the object, which is composed of the FACTUREE logo's hexagons, is also visually well-thought-out. The construction is currently on display as an impressive feature in the entrance area of FACTUREE and will in future be used at trade fairs as to illustrate the extensive FACTUREE manufacturing range of components it consists of: (tube) bent parts made of stainless steel, laser parts, milling parts, 3D-printed parts, turning parts and welded parts including surface treatments.
The Online Manufacturer and a global provider of sheet metal processing solutions take a close look at market developments in Germany
FACTUREE and Bystronic: Why online sheet metal processing is a growth market
Berlin, 26 May 2021 – As the sheet metal processing market is highly competitive, featuring a high degree of comparability and steady growth, providers in this sector rely on efficient processes and a high level of automation. At the same time, the market is continuously generating new technologies and has made significant progress with respect to quality, performance, digitalization, and automation in recent years. Online Manufacturing is thus becoming increasingly important for providers of sheet metal processing solutions such as Bystronic Deutschland GmbH (www.bystronic.de), which is why the company has now partnered with Online Manufacturer FACTUREE (www.facturee.de).
“Sheet metal processing is an extremely competitive market. Many providers are experiencing high demand. And the pandemic has given rise to a price war,” explains Marius van der Hoeven, Managing Director of Bystronic Deutschland GmbH. As a global provider of solutions for sheet metal processing, Bystronic is focusing on automating the entire material and data flow of the cutting and bending process chain. The company’s portfolio includes laser cutting systems, press brakes, and the corresponding automation and software solutions.
Marius van der Hoeven adds, “At the same time, sheet metal processing companies are operating in a high-end market shaped by new technologies for high quality, performance, digitalization, and automation. Many of them have already invested in high-performance machines or are ready to do so in the future and now want to utilize their newly available capacities. This is where Online Manufacturing comes in, giving sheet metal processing companies, the Bystronic customer base, the chance to meet new customers and generate additional orders.”
Online Manufacturing – the future of production in sheet metal processing
Bystronic Deutschland is therefore collaborating with Online Manufacturer FACTUREE, a brand of cwmk GmbH. FACTUREE has a production network with over 1000 manufacturing partners, mainly in the CNC processing, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology sectors. One advantage of Online Manufacturing is that the network approach allows the most suitable provider to be identified for a requirement and that even in times of crisis or very high demand, no delivery bottlenecks or delays arise.
“We think that Online Manufacturing has great potential for sheet metal processing production. Providers are faced with the challenge of standing out from the competition and blazing new trails. By joining our network, they become proactive in digitalization and networking and can explore new business opportunities. In collaboration with Bystronic, we want to further expand our network and competencies in sheet metal processing,” explains Benjamin Schwab, Head of Marketing & Sales at cwmk GmbH, the parent brand of FACTUREE.
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Profile of FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer:
cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 8000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.
Further information: www.facturee.de
Online manufacturer sees recovery of its business in line with VDMA’s growth forecast for production in 2021
FACTUREE: The crisis in the plant and mechanical engineering sector is over
Berlin, May 4, 2021 – The German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association (VDMA) has raised its growth forecast for production in 2021 to 7 percent in real terms and expects that the industry will be able to offset, at least to some extent, the severe economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 crisis. FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer (www.facturee.de) agrees with this outlook. The company is seeing a significant increase in orders from customers in struggling industries and – thanks partly to its online approach – is on course for growth.
“The crisis caused by COVID-19 in the mechanical and plant engineering sector is over. That’s our assessment, at least, and one that tallies with the VDMA’s current forecasts. We’re currently noticing a significant increase in orders from existing customers – especially from sectors such as mechanical engineering, which were badly hit by the COVID-19 crisis and had been quiet for a long time,” says Benjamin Schwab, Head of Marketing & Sales at cwmk GmbH, adding: “We’re confident that, despite the lockdown, we’ll experience a definite turnaround and that a major recovery is on the horizon.”
Move toward Online Manufacturing: reliable procurement processes
While the mechanical and plant engineering sector is picking up speed again, it is increasingly relying on the concept of Online Manufacturing for its procurement processes. Two key factors for this development are its high reliability and short provisioning times.
The network approach keeps the risks of failed or delayed deliveries, which, especially in times of crisis are particularly high among traditional contract manufacturers, to an absolute minimum, ensuring supply chains are maintained at all times. FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer is a brand of cwmk GmbH and has a production network of over 1,000 manufacturing partners, mainly from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal working, 3D printing, and surface technology.
“The industry needs to prepare for the upturn in the mechanical and plant engineering sector. When it comes to their suppliers, market participants must position themselves as resilient entities capable of withstanding shocks in order to remain flexible and operational, not only during a crisis but at all times. Online Manufacturing has a clear competitive advantage, as its procurement processes are far superior to those of traditional contract manufacturing. As an Online Manufacturing network, we can quickly adapt to market conditions – by shifting manufacturing capacity away from plants and regions affected by the lockdown, for example. We use AI tools to find the best provider to meet the requirements,” explains Benjamin Schwab.
FACTUREE continues to expand its capacities
As a logical response to this development and the associated growth, FACTUREE is significantly expanding its capacities – both in terms of resources and personnel as well as office space. In this context, the move to new, larger premises is planned for autumn 2021.
Benjamin Schwab explains: “Our company has always been shaped by growth and change, which is why we will also continue expanding our digital infrastructure. We’re currently working with our customers to develop a new tool that is tailored to their needs and makes the inquiry and ordering processes quick and easy. We’re shifting our focus away from crisis mode and toward the building of the future.”
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Profile of FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer:
cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 8000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.
Further information: www.facturee.de
The Lions Racing Team of the University Braunschweig (Germany) is going on full throttle into the race again this year competing in the motorsport competitions of "Formula Student". Their goal is to outpace the other universities' teams by using custom-designed electric racing cars and to finish on the winner's podium. FACTUREE supports the Lions Racing Team with sponsored components to pick up as much speed as possible.
"Formula Student" is the world's largest design competition for students. In this competition, technology enthusiasts from all over the world design and then build racing cars on their own to compete against other universities for victory in three racing classes: Combustion, Electric and Driverless. Since its creation in 2000, the Lions Racing Team has represented the Technische Universität Braunschweig at the international Formula Student competitions and competes annually on racetracks such as Hockenheim or Silverstone with its specially designed and built racing cars. In the process, students have been implementing the transition from combustion engines to electric cars with built-in autonomous systems since 2019.
Lions Racing Team takes pole position with Online Manufacturing
With components supplied by FACTUREE, the Lions Racing Team is also looking to gain momentum this year. To improve the development of its electric race cars and produce the best possible innovations, the team works hand in hand with partners from industry and research. It has made several innovations for this year's race:
"Based on our experience from previous seasons as well as the current Formula Student regulations, we have used proven product development processes to design and construct many new components for the 2021 season. Among other things, a new concept was created for the push-rod system installed on the LR19."
Among other things, the team opted for a heave-roll system on the rear axle. The handlebars, which FACTUREE manufactures and provides as sponsorship, are important components.
Impact of the coronavirus crisis and other increasing risk factors on conventional contract manufacturers
FACTUREE recommends avoiding production and logistics problems with Online Manufacturing
Berlin, 16 February 2021 – The coronavirus pandemic has demonstrated that supply chains associated with conventional contract manufacturing can break down easily in a crisis. Production and supply problems faced by contract manufacturers quickly make manufacturers aware of how dependent they are. And there are further risks involved such as fires or strikes irrespective of the coronavirus crisis. One broken link in the process leads to a cascade of problems. Online Manufacturing minimizes all these risks, as FACTUREE (www.facturee.de) demonstrates.
“Conventional contract manufacturing is vulnerable to various risk factors due to its very nature. Especially during the coronavirus crisis, major disadvantages such as supplier dependencies, interrupted supply chains and delivery bottlenecks become apparent,” explains Benjamin Schwab, Director of Marketing & Sales at cwmk GmbH, and adds, “Aspects such as flexibility, a high level of precision and fast delivery times are indispensable for the production of custom components – particularly under growing pressure from the competition. If a process is slowed down or fails, the customer is impacted.”
Ensuring continuous operations with Online Manufacturing – with or without a crisis
FACTUREE therefore advises manufacturers to position themselves to be resilient and shock resistant with respect to their suppliers in order to remain flexible and operational at all times, whether there is a crisis or not. “The awareness for risk prevention and preventive crisis management is growing steadily. Rigid structures need to be phased out in our view,” states Benjamin Schwab.
Online Manufacturing facilitates stable procurement processes by rapidly adjusting to current circumstances, for example by reallocating production capacities away from the businesses and regions affected by lockdowns.
The Online Manufacturer FACTUREE is a trademark of cwmk GmbH, which has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners in the areas of CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing and surface technology. The network approach minimizes the risks of supply disruptions and delays as much as possible, maintaining supply chains even in a crisis.
For the procurement of production parts, the FACTUREE network has more than 8000 machines available for projects at all times. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven, ISO 9001 certified quality management system. Prototyping projects can be carried out as well as small and large series production.
A pool of manufacturers, only one contract partner
For each project, FACTUREE uses AI to identify the most suitable manufacturer with respect to quality, price and delivery time. The request process is semi-automatic, thus ensuring fast proposals. FACTUREE is the sole contract partner for the entire ordering process.
Benjamin Schwab says, “One risk factor in conventional contract manufacturing is the frequently common long-term commitment to a certain supplier. This limits the flexibility of the company placing the order and leads to dependency. We have nearly unlimited capacities available, allowing us to react more flexibly and reliably to current developments than individual manufacturing businesses. Yet the customer has only one contact partner.”
FACTUREE operates in all of Europe and has a continually growing number of customers in the European countries from various sectors such as machine engineering, medical technology, model construction, robotics, and the automotive and aerospace industries. Customers include leading industrial companies such as Siemens and Parker Hannifin, small and medium-sized businesses, startups, and research institutes and universities.
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Profile of FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer:
cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 8000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.
Further information: www.facturee.de
FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer participates again this year in the Girls' Day and offers interested young girls an insight into the following areas of our work:
- Programming (Frontend-Development)
- Online marketing
- Logistics
- Technical purchasing
Girls' Day will take place this year on April 22, 2021 and applications are still being accepted by mail or the Girls' Day online platform.
Depending on the development of the infection figures, Girls' Day will be held this year either in purely digital form or on site with a hygiene concept.
European nuclear physics laboratory relies on
digital procurement of parts for neutron shields
FACTUREE produces radiation protection components for the European research center CERN
Berlin, 18th January 2021 – CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, is one of the world’s largest and most renowned centers for basic physics research. The CMS experiment conducted by CERN is considered one of the largest international scientific collaborations in history. For this experiment, CERN entrusted FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer (www.facturee.de) with procuring special parts for the complex CMS particle detector developed specifically for this purpose. In an extensive project, FACTUREE produced steel pipes and plates used in the physics experiment as components for neutron shields.
At CERN (Conseil Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire) in Geneva, scientists explore the fundamental laws of the universe. The European project was founded in 1954 and has 23 member states, including the United Kingdom and Germany as a founding members. CERN employs more than 12,000 scientists from 85 countries.
Needed quickly: high-quality special protective shield for particle detector
The European nuclear physics laboratory provides its researchers a unique array of particle accelerators. At CERN, the world’s largest and most complex machines are used to research the smallest units of matter – elementary particles.
The Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment is a particle detector at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN in Switzerland. An underground hall in the accelerator ring near Cessy in France hosts the large-scale experiment involving – as of September 2019 – 5000 particle physicists, engineers, technicians, students and assistants from 200 institutes in 50 countries.
Ali Karaki, Mechanical Engineer at CMS/CERN, states: “For this important experiment, we needed a special protective shield, as our previous shields were contaminated with radiation. When searching for a manufacturer, the key factors were procurement time, quality and handling. There are currently only a few companies in Europe that can manufacture large-scale parts precisely and reliably. We have already had positive experiences with FACTUREE in procuring precision parts, sample holders, adapter pieces, etc. and we therefore opted for the online manufacturer for this project as well.”
When awarding the contract for this major project, knowledge of the exact chemical composition of the steel used was also decisive. Lukas Schlicker, Head of Purchasing at cwmk GmbH, explains: “In order to calculate the effectiveness of the protective shields against radiation, you must know the exact chemical composition of the steel batch. We were able to give CERN the chemical analysis of the batch intended for use in production during the quotation phase. The effectiveness of the protective shields was then simulated and confirmed at CERN.
cwmk GmbH operates as an Online Manufacturer under the FACTUREE brand name. FACTUREE has a broad network of over 1000 production partners across the areas of CNC machining, sheet metal processing, 3D printing, and surface technology. More than 8000 machines are always at the ready for projects, ensuring on-time deliveries. The company has an ISO 9001 certified quality management system.
Fast procurement and cost advantages
FACTUREE produced a total of 5 metric tons of steel pipes and plates for CERN that were used in the CMS experiment as components for radiation protection. The contract also included special features and services, among them the procurement of raw material, processing, painting, assembly and delivery.
Ali Karaki sums up: “The quotation from FACTUREE was fast, as was delivery of the components. We found no defects in the incoming inspection. The costs for the components were around 15% lower than from other providers in Europe. If CERN should ever need components for protective shields such as steel plates or pipes in the future, we will definitely turn to FACTUREE for procurement again.”
Profile of FACTUREE – The Online Manufacturer:
cwmk GmbH, based in Berlin, operates under the brand name FACTUREE as the first Online Manufacturer. The company pursues the goal of enabling its customers to procure modern production parts through digitization, automation and networking. FACTUREE has an extensive production network of over 1000 manufacturing partners from the fields of CNC machining, sheet metal production, 3D printing and surface technology. More than 8000 machines are constantly available for projects. All partners are subject to a continuous data-driven quality management system certified according to ISO 9001. FACTUREE can realize prototyping projects as well as small and large series production. The customer base is located in the most diverse fields such as mechanical engineering, medical technology, model making, robotics, automotive as well as aerospace. Leading industrial companies like Siemens and Parker Hannifin, SMEs, research institutes and universities are among the customers. FACTUREE is active throughout Europe and has a continuously growing number of customers in other European countries.
Further information: www.facturee.de
