Release of the "Map of Machinery" Report!

December 12, 2024

The Map of Machinery is an open data tool designed to:

  • Locate and visualize manufacturing machinery based on location, ownership, and capabilities.
  • Foster collaboration and intelligence within distributed manufacturing networks.
  • Enable local procurement for humanitarian aid, disaster relief, education, and economic development.
  • Support makers in finding and connecting to nearby resources while encouraging global partnerships.
Key Highlights of the Report:

- Development of open and replicable data aligned with F.A.I.R. principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable).

- Insights into overcoming technical challenges in data collection, privacy, and governance.

- Case studies of key applications, including rapid response procurement tools, guidelines for maker-space learning, and employment creation.

- Tools and resources developed, such as AI-powered data processing systems, portable online/offline maps, and survey forms with KoBoToolbox.

The Map of Machinery builds on the Open Know-Where Standard, designed to classify and collect data on manufacturing facilities and machines to promote distributed manufacturing. By connecting networks of makers, this tool empowers local production, strengthens economies, and creates opportunities for community-driven innovation.

Read the full report here!

Anaya, A. (2024). Map of Machinery. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14422306