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Additive manufacturingDictionary
EnglishShort definitionMake or buy is a decision-making process in which a strategic decision is made as to whether a product or service should be manufactured internally (make) or by an external provider (buy). The decision is made on the basis of several factors, such as costs, quality, capacities and know-how. The analysis can help companies to find the optimal solution in terms of resources and costs. This can improve competitiveness and flexibility.

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Additive manufacturingAdditive manufacturing is an innovative manufacturing process in which material is added layer by layer to create three-dimensional objects. This approach enables the production of complex geometries and customized components that are often not feasible with traditional manufacturing methods. In industry, additive manufacturing is used to create prototypes quickly, shorten production times and increase material efficiency. It also offers flexibility for design adjustments without additional tooling costs, making development and production more agile. By reducing waste and optimizing the use of materials, additive manufacturing contributes to sustainable production and strengthens the competitiveness of companies in a wide range of industries.
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PaaSProduction as a service (PaaS) describes the business concept in which a company's production capacities are made available for other companies to use. The advantage for companies that use this service is that they do not need their own production facilities and therefore save financial resources. PaaS also guarantees a faster market launch, automated production and access to professional contacts.
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Incoterms (International Commercial Terms)The Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) are voluntary clauses established by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to make responsibilities between buyers and sellers in international trade more understandable and uniform. The Incoterms cover all aspects of delivery, risk, transportation and customs clearance and can be included in contracts to avoid misunderstandings. The three most important and best-known Incoterms are EXW (Ex Works), FOB (Free on Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight). Each of these clauses sets out different obligations and costs for the respective party from collection to final delivery. The Incoterms are adapted to current trade practices at regular intervals.
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On-demand (service)On-demand refers to products or services that are available immediately, usually via the internet. On-demand platforms are primarily known in the areas of software and streaming, but are also developing an important role in industry. The advantages of on-demand platforms are increased flexibility and cost savings, as industrial offers can be created quickly and only for the resources that are actually required.
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BlankA blank is a semi-finished product that is created after the primary machining process and serves as the starting material for further production. In industrial production, the blank forms the basis for various downstream processing steps such as machining, shaping or surface treatment. Blanks can come in different shapes and materials, for example as metal ingots, plastic granules or blocks of wood, depending on the desired end product. The quality and precision of the blank are crucial for the efficiency and accuracy of the subsequent production steps, as they form the basis for the dimensional accuracy and technical properties of the finished product. By using standardized blanks, production processes can be optimized and costs reduced, thereby increasing competitiveness in the manufacturing industry.
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Blue Angel certificateThe Blue Angel certification is a globally recognized environmental label that was introduced in Germany in 1978 and identifies products that are particularly environmentally friendly. Criteria for assessing the environmental friendliness of the product are, for example, resource conservation, energy efficiency and reduction of pollutants. The label is intended to help consumers find environmentally friendly products and thus make their purchasing decisions easier. Conversely, it is also an opportunity for companies to have their efforts with regard to the environment labeled and thus make the product more attractive.
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