Digital Lifescapes

The concept of a Digital Twin is important within the industrial sector, as stakeholders throughout the supply chain ecosystem seek to harness technology to increase efficiency. Digital Twins are also essential elements of the evolving Internet of Things (IoT) platforms market. Examples of these virtual connected objects include connected cars, airplane turbines, smart cities, and commercial buildings. The objects are usually first created and modeled via computer-aided-design (CAD) software, which is used by engineers in the early stages of product development. Digital Twin Market Development IT innovations, such as Big Data analysis, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), software analytics and cloud solutions -- as well as the growing demand for sensors to capture and process data -- have been significant drivers for the adoption of Digital Twin use cases. According to the latest worldwide market study by Juniper Research, the forecast total global spending on Digit...

Three-dimensional (3D) printers, with the ability to print a variety of objects, have evolved significantly and are currently used for industrial and consumer prototype design applications. With use cases ranging from high-end industrial devices to children's toys, consumer 3D printing is witnessing an increased visibility among the do-it-yourself (DIY) and other early-adopter communities. New market study findings from Juniper Research reveal that the combined market value from consumer 3D Printer hardware sales and material spend is forecast to exceed the $1 billion mark by 2018, compared to just over $75 million this year. While 3D printer shipments are at relatively low levels, representing a limited opportunity in the medium term, Juniper expects them to increase significantly beyond the 5 year period. Industry leaders, including 3D Systems and Stratasys, confirmed a stronger demand for professional 3D printers and materials compared to a softer consumer demand. Howeve...