EFFICIENCY FOR LETHALITY: ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING ROI MODELING AND COMPLETE ADOPTION

While additive manufacturing (AM) is still in the infancy stages within the DoN for complete adoption, the DoN is interested in knowing how to more accurately measure AM adoption. Ongoing fiscal restraints make adoption of AM a challenging decision over higher-priority programs. A determining factor in the process of making that decision will be the knowledge about the potential AM holds—if the investment in AM is capable of realizing significant savings, return on investment (ROI), and efficiency improvements in the AM procurement process versus traditional procurement methods. Ultimately, sustainable readiness around the fleet and ROI are a high priority. First, the research effort defined the DoN leadership support as part of the National Defense Strategy. Second, we utilized various case studies and data resources from around the DoN to observe where the ROI will be maximized and how ROI directly relates to the large-scale adoption of AM. Third, we culminated with the development of a model that used colored bins to guide the decision-maker to employ AM vice traditional procurement methods. Multiple examples of costs and benefits found during the site visits and ways a decision-maker can adjust and use ROI are offered. Finally, we incorporated the recommendations for increased efficiency of procurement and highlighted areas where AM will be best utilized in the future. The research concluded with a sensitivity analysis and proposed areas of future development.OPNAV N4http://archive.org/details/efficiencyforlet1094564165Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy ReserveApproved for public release; distribution is unlimited