Integration takes place in two phases

Identify3D Protect will be added to the file review, ordering and management workflows within the standard AM workflow. This complements the encryption-in-transit security that is already part of all 3Yourmind platforms by adding an encryption-at-rest solution; ensuring the secure handling of data during manufacturing. 3D models are securely uploaded to 3Yourmind's platforms as before and are now processed as an encrypted digital supply unit (DSI). Identify3D ProtectTM creates a private DSI section with fully encrypted intellectual property and a public DSI section containing the minimum amount of data required for processing via the 3Yourmind platforms.

"We are working closely with 3Yourmind to develop data standards that ensure the security of platform users' intellectual property while maintaining all the benefits of AM workflow digitization. The encryption protocols we developed enable companies to collaborate even better with internal and external suppliers. Our jointly developed solutions have the advantage of making additive manufacturing easy and secure for any company - even those working in high-security environments." Stephan Thomas, Chief Strategy Officer, Identify3D.

In the second phase, these files are routed via the 3Yourmind platform to the AM machines equipped with Identify3D EnforceTM. Industry leaders such as EOS, SLM and Renishaw are already able to process a variety of encrypted 3D printing parameters such as quantity, time frame, material or production size; even restrictions to a single machine or a specific location are possible. The technology is also available for CNC machines equipped with the Siemens Sinumerik 840D sl control system.

Users benefit from centralized access to 3D printing resources, printability verification and instant pricing via the 3Yourmind platform. At the point the order is placed with a selected vendor that has opted for advanced security, the DSI data file is securely processed based on the order parameters to create a machine-specific manufacturing file with expiration date and quantity limit. The user has full control over how many of each part is to be printed, in which material and at which location - and a complete documentation of all production steps is created.

Secure 3D printing with external providers

Since 2015, 3YOURMIND has been offering its enterprise platform as a local installation and as a SaaS solution. Companies can choose between internal 3D printing capacities and external 3D printing service providers from 3Yourmind's on-demand network in order to flexibly adapt their production capacities to their needs.

3Yourmind offers its customers on the 3Yourmind platforms both encryption technologies and intellectual property protection when sending files to 3D printing service providers. The Identify3D technology ensures that AM components are only produced in the approved quantity, manufacturing process, desired material or exactly in the selected industrial 3D printer as ordered and approved in advance via 3Yourmind Enterprise.

"We have always offered our customers stable, uncomplicated and secure platforms for additive manufacturing. Through the cooperation with Identify3D, we are now integrating a second level of security for intellectual property as well as the secure encryption of the relevant production factors." Philipp Stelzer, Head of Sales and Marketing, 3Yourmind.

Smart contracts as an important component of future production processes

3Yourmind and Identify3D are also working on developing the programming structure for smart contracts to continuously adapt orders and the associated legal agreements and document all steps through to successful production. This is an essential component of flexible manufacturing - it enables companies to use automated processes to reliably and securely transfer their components to AM service providers around the world and have them produce them directly on site.