Making a model and doing it fast
Article Abstract:
Rapid prototyping uses lasers to build plastic models so that companies can see how new designs will function, whether they can be manufactured efficiently and whether consumers will approve of them. Rapid prototyping saves both time and money. The company that has led in supplying prototyping systems - 3D Systems Inc - is being challenged by entrepreneurs with competing ways to make such models. 3D's technology, called 'stereo lithography,' which uses a computer-aided design represented as a three-dimensional object with all surfaces mathematically described, currently costs from $95,000 to $385,000. EI DuPont de Nemours has set up a separate venture called Somos to pursue rapid prototyping. BF Goodrich is also a potential rival, working through its ownership of DTM Corp. Perhaps the least expensive technology available is a $12,000 CAD-driven desktop machining center made by Light Machines Corp.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1990
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Moving the Pampers faster cuts everyone's costs; consumer-goods makers and retailers find that 'just-in-time' works for them too
Article Abstract:
Packaged-goods and food manufacturers, looking for the same benefits that companies have gained by implementing 'just-in-time' techniques in other industries, are forming partnerships with retailers so that procedures can be done more efficiently. Partnerships can eliminate production bottlenecks, keep inventories at a minimum, and easily identify service and quality problems. Companies typically assign teams that consist of data processing personnel as well as sales and purchasing people to work out the problems between them. One reason why a partnership can be important involves electronic scanning systems, which provide retailers with data about segments of markets. To profit from this information, retailers need to cooperate with manufacturers. A representative for Proctor and Gamble Co says his company could save as much as $1 billion annually because of partnering.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1991
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Xerox reports a deficit of $254 million in quarter
Article Abstract:
Xerox Corp announces a $254 million loss for 1st qtr 1990 compared with a $158 million profit for the same period a year ago. Revenues for the quarter were up 4.9 percent to $4.3 billion, from $4.1 billion one year ago. The company cited real estate losses and declining earnings from the firm's insurance subsidiary as the main culprits. The company claims it is encouraged by the strong performance of its core office machine business where profits were up 20 percent, better than most analysts expected. Overall, though, the loss was greater than expected, and the stock market responded accordingly, sending Xerox down $1.25 to close at $51.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1990
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