Partner Selection in Additive Manufacturing Networks

Considering the special features of additive manufacturing networks, and with the aim to realize a more efficient functionality of these networks, this work focuses on the issues of partner selection. Based on an in-depth literature review encompassing more than 170 papers, 61 criteria clusters are listed as a general basis. A horizontal and vertical classification of criteria is further conducted, attempting to cover different situations of partner selection in additive manufacturing networks. Here, economic, social, environmental and resilience perspectives are composed as the horizontal view. Key stages of additive manufacturing processes serve as the vertical one. A mathematical algorithm model is further developed to facilitate partner matching. Within the algorithm model, motivations and their relative priorities are considered. This work contributes to enhancing the reliability of partner selection processes, which in the end improves the efficiency of networks’ functionality.