Application of Combinatorial Auctions to Create a 3D Printing Market

Abstract

This work presents the bases of a managed market, “Lonja”, using combinatorial auctions. This is used to purchase products made with 3D printing (additive manufacturing technologies). In this market, the organization and coordination of collaborative offers will be facilitated between the customers that will receive the bids from the manufacturers or providers of 3D printing services. This “Lonja” or market will enable customers to obtain better prices from the manufacturers. On the other hand, the manufacturers can optimize their installed production capacity, and they can reduce operating costs in each case according to the technology.