Virtual Chapter Event | 06 February 2024

Systems engineering in municipalities – the next frontier

The chapter event will be registered for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits with ECSA.

Abstract 

Additive Manufacturing (AM), a key player in Industry 4.0, holds promise for various industries by offering savings in time, labor, and materials. In the automotive sector, AM has the potential to reshape manufacturing processes. However, embracing AM in this industry comes with challenges that go beyond its benefits. This presentation explores the complexities of integrating AM and 3D technology in the automotive sector, shedding light on obstacles that need careful consideration. The hurdles include concerns about costs, limitations in available materials, intricate processes, and adherence to regulations. To unlock the full potential of AM in the automotive sector, it’s crucial to take a comprehensive approach to tackle these challenges. The presentation underscores the impact of costs on widespread adoption and emphasizes the need to understand broader economic implications. Material limitations pose another challenge, necessitating innovative solutions to expand the variety of materials compatible with AM processes.

The intricate nature of AM processes requires a shift in mindset and skill sets within the industry for smooth integration. Moreover, complying with regulations is a crucial aspect, given the strict standards governing the automotive sector. The presentation stresses the importance of a holistic approach that incorporates technological advancements while staying within regulatory frameworks. By addressing these challenges, the presentation provides insights into the factors and commercial considerations influencing AM adoption among automobile parts manufacturers. These insights cater to the interests of both researchers and industry practitioners, offering a roadmap to overcome obstacles and unlock the transformative potential of AM in the automotive industry. As the automotive sector evolves, understanding and addressing these challenges become essential for staying at the forefront of innovation.

About Shelly Mona

Shelly Mona is currently the Deputy Director at Product Development Technology Station (PDTS): Central University of Technology, Free State, and a PhD candidate at the University of Johannesburg. She is registered as a professional engineering Technologist with the Engineering Council of South Africa. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology from the University of Johannesburg. She later specialized in Industrial Engineering and Management and obtained a master’s degree in engineering management from Tshwane University of Technology.

She holds a certificate in project management from the University of Johannesburg and a certificate in Production and Operations Management from the University of South Africa. Her professional experience is as diverse as it is extensive, encompassing roles as a Product Development Engineer, Quality Engineer, and Maintenance Engineering. Her dedication to the academic realm extends to tutoring automatic control at the University of South Africa, Department of Mechanical Engineering, and reviewing conference papers. She presented and published conference papers on various international platforms, including the Proceedings of the International Conferences on Industrial Engineering and Operations Management in South Africa, USA, and Nigeria.

She also presented and published a conference paper on the proceedings of the 2ndInternational Conference on Industrial Engineering, Systems Engineering, and Engineering Management held in South Africa, and her research interests are multidisciplinary and include additive manufacturing technologies, quality management in manufacturing, and the application of System Dynamics modeling and simulation in the manufacturing sector.