In the late 15th century, Leonardo Da Vinci sketched a simple rolling mill that demonstrated the possibility of bending sheet metals. However, it wasn’t until 1590 that this sketch became a reality as metal workers started using two heavy cylinders to press metals, altering their thickness and shape.

Since Da Vinci’s fantastic sketch, the sheet metal bending process has advanced; we now have several sheet metal bending technologies with different capabilities today. However, one thing has remained constant over the years: the success of your sheet metal forming project starts with you understanding the different bending methods and their suitability for different design scenarios.

Here, we discuss what you ought to know about the sheet metal bending process. If you want to get your sheet metal forming project done right the first time, this article is for you!

The Sheet Metal Bending Process

The sheet metal bending process involves applying a force to a sheet metal part to change its geometry. This force causes stress on the sheet metal beyond its yield strength, causing the material to physically deform without breaking or failing.

The press brake is a commonly used tool to bend sheet metal. It works by lowering a punch onto a sheet metal positioned on a die, creating the desired geometry.

(Sheet metal bending process animation. Public domain via Wikimedia Commons)

Although this process is pretty straightforward, there is more to sheet metal bending than meets the eye. For example, there are several sheet metal bending methods, all of which are similar in function but differ in operation. Therefore, knowing the ideal method to choose is the first step you need to take to succeed with your sheet metal forming project.

6 Sheet Metal Bending Methods

Method #1 V-bending

V-bending is the most common sheet metal bending method. As its name implies, the v-bending method employs a v-shaped die and a punch to bend metals at desired angles. The v-shaped punch forces the sheet metal workpiece into the “v-shaped” groove in the die, forming sheet metals with different bend angles. For example, you can achieve acute, obtuse, or 90° bend angles, depending on the v-shaped punch and die angle.

Figure 1: The v-bending method

Method #2 Air Bending

Air bending is quite similar to the V-bending method: it relies on v-shaped punch and die to bend sheet metals. However, unlike the conventional v-bending process, the punch in the air bending method does not force the sheet into the bottom of the cavity. Instead, it leaves space (or air) underneath the sheet, allowing more bend angle control than conventional v-bending.

Figure 2: The air bending method

For instance, let’s say you have a 90° die and punch. With the air bending method, you can achieve bend angles anywhere between 90° and 180°. This method also ensures a more accurate result since it experiences less springbackㅡwhich describes the partial recovery of a bent sheet metal part to its geometry before bending force was applied. Springback is undesirable as it causes inaccurate bends.

Method #3 Bottoming

Bottoming (or bottom bending) is a type of v-bending that also solves the springback challenge. It involves deforming the sheet metal in the bend region by applying additional force through the tip of the punch after completion of bending.

Figure 3: Bottom bending

Like the air bending method, bottoming offers a precise bend angle control. However, it requires a higher tonnage press than bottom bending.

Method #4 Wipe Bending

In the wipe bending method, the sheet metal is held against a wipe die by a pressure pad. The punch then forces against the edge of the sheet that extends beyond the die and pressure pad, causing it to bend over the end of the die.

Figure 4: Wipe bending

This method offers a good mechanical advantageㅡwhich means it allows you to apply less force to create desired bends (and bend angles). However, it might not be ideal for creating obtuse bend angles as you’d require a more complex piece of equipment capable of delivering horizontal force.

Method #5 Roll Bending

The roll bending method allows you to bend sheet metals into rolls, tubes, cones, or curved shapes. This unique sheet metal forming process uses sets of rollers that feed (and bend) the metal stock to the desired curvature.

Figure 5: Roll bending

Roll bending can form metal sheets into various cross-section profiles, consisting of several bending curves. It is especially useful for creating very long sheet metal parts with thicknesses ranging between 0.004 inches and 0.125 inches and widths of up to 20 inches. For example, you can create parts like panels, tracks, and shelving (typically used in buildings for lighting, roofing, and HVAC applications) using the roll bending machine.

Method #6 Rotary Draw Bending

In rotary draw bending, the sheet metal is clamped to a rotating die and drawn around the die to form a geometry whose radius matches the desired bend radius. This method often employs an internal supporting mandrel to prevent wrinkling on the wall of the bent sheet metal.

Figure 6: Rotary draw bending

The rotary draw bending method offers a few advantages over other sheet metal bending types. For instance, it doesn’t scratch the metal’s surface, unlike the wipe bending and v-bending processes. In addition, it can bend materials into sharp corners with obtuse bend angles.

Related Post: 5 Things Product Designers Should Know About Sheet Metal Prototyping

5 Tips for Bending Sheet Metals

The following tips will help you create accurate and reliable sheet metal parts.

1. Ensure that the bend is located in regions where enough material is present.
2. Use a single bend radius for all bends to eliminate the need for additional tooling.
3. Ensure that the inside bend radius equals (or is greater than) the sheet thickness.
4. Bend hard materials perpendicular to the rolling direction to prevent fracture.
5. Avoid designing features like holes and slots very close to the bend as it may distort the feature. As a rule, you must keep all features away from the bend at a distance equal to at least three times the sheet thickness.
6. Work with a machine shop with a track record of providing high-quality sheet metal forming services.

Gensun Precision Machining is a leading sheet metal forming services provider across Asia. We offer high-quality bending services to companies serving a broad range of industries. In addition, our sheet metal bending services complement our other manufacturing capabilities (like 3D printing and CNC machining), providing you with an all-encompassing manufacturing solution.

Learn more about our bending services.

What makes a great precision milling machine shop?

This question must have crossed your mind if you’re looking to outsource the manufacturing of your products (or parts) to a third-party precision CNC machining company. Chances are, every manufacturer you contact tells you that they provide the best precision milling services in the world.

But you shouldn’t take their word for it. Instead, you want to make sure you’re asking them the right questions. Their response will help you determine if truly they are the best fit for your precision milling project.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at five essential questions you need to ask every machine shop before doing business with them.

Question #1: What Certifications Do You Have?

This is one of the most important questions you must ask a machine shop. Top-tier machine shops are ISO 9001 certified, meaning that they adhere strictly to statutory and regulatory requirements by ensuring high-quality parts.

Another crucial certification you want to be sure the manufacturer has is ISO 14001. An ISO 14001 certified machine shop adheres to the requirements for an efficient environmental management system. They efficiently utilize your resources and reduce wastage, allowing you to drive down manufacturing costs.

You may also have to ask about specific certificates if you’re looking to create parts for specific industries. For example, if you want to fabricate parts that will be used in the medical industry, then you should opt for a manufacturer that meets all the requirements in ISO 13485.

Question #2: What Industries Do You Serve?

This may seem obvious, but most times, we tend to quickly outsource manufacturing to so-called precision machining companies without even asking if they can meet the requirements of the industries we serve.

Some industries demand extremely complex parts to be made from specialized engineering materials that are difficult to machine. A good example is the aerospace industry, where parts are complex, enormous, and made of specialty plastics, composites, and lightweight metal alloys. Only a few third-party machine shops can meet the strict requirements of the aerospace industry. (Related Post: CNC Machining Aerospace Parts: 5 Things You Need to Know).

The electronics industry demands miniaturized electronic parts with tolerances as small as 4μm. A slight mistake during machining, and you can be sure that the machined electronic component will be unusable for its intended purpose.

Question #3: What Type of Milling Equipment Do You Have?

Milling equipment comes in many varieties and with different capabilities. Conventional milling machines feature a cutting tool that rotates against the direction of the feed and relies on operators to control the cutting tool and machine the parts. In contrast, CNC milling machines operate independently through the use of computer numerical control (CNC) technology.

You want to be sure your third-party manufacturer will be utilizing CNC milling technology for your project. Not only will this ensure high-quality CNC machined parts, but it will also reduce labor costs and ensure consistency, especially if you’re looking to manufacture large volumes of identical parts.

Evidently, not all machine shops utilize CNC technology, but even among those that do, there are several types of CNC milling machines that can be used for your machining project. 2-,3-, and 4- axis CNC milling machines are suitable for machining parts having simple designs, whereas 5-axis machines are best suited for machining complex geometries.

Question #4: How Experienced are Your CNC Operators?

The majority of the product recall issues that arise in the machining industry are traced back to the level of expertise of the CNC operators, technicians, or engineers. You want a machine shop with highly qualified technicians capable of identifying design flaws, suggesting feasible design modifications, and fabricating high-quality parts.

Question #5: How Do You Manage Quality Control?

We can talk about certifications, milling equipment, and the level of expertise of the machine operators all day, but the quality of machined parts you’d be getting still depends on the quality management system your manufacturer has in place.

Top-tier manufacturers have a dedicated team of quality control experts who carry out various article inspections using height gages, programmed probes, microscopes, and coordinate measuring machines (CMM), among others. (Related Post: What You Need to Know About Quality Control for CNC Machining)

Gensun Precision Machining has been in business for nearly two decades serving companies in many industries across the globe. We provide high-quality CNC precision machining services, and our facility is ISO 9001:2015 and ISO: 14001:2015 certified.

Tell us about your project today, and our highly experienced engineers and quality control experts will ensure you get high-quality parts exactly to your specifications.

In the past, CNC milling and CNC turning were two distinct processes carried out using two distinct machines – a milling machine and a turning machine, respectively. However, as technology advanced, both of these processes can be integrated into the same machine. Together, milling and turning processes are now known as mill-turn machining.

This article will serve as a guide in CNC mill-turn machining, considering the working principle of the mill-turn machine, common configurations, benefits, and possible fields of application.

Contents
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I
What is CNC Mill-Turn Machining?

II
Working Principle of CNC Mill Turn Machines

III
Common Configurations of CNC Mill Turn Centers

IV
Benefits of CNC Mill-Turn Machining

V
Applications of CNC Mill-Turn Technology

VI
Get Quality CNC Mill-Turn Machining Services at WayKen

VII
Conclusion

What is CNC Mill-Turn Machining?

CNC mill-turn machining is a machining process that combines both CNC milling and CNC turning functionalities. To better understand this concept, let’s consider the differences between milling and turning.

CNC milling is a machining process involving computerized controls and rotating cutting tools to progressively remove small pieces from the workpiece. This process is the most common CNC machining type. On the other hand, CNC turning is a machining process that involves holding bars of materials in place and rotating them while a tool associated with the machine removes materials to achieve the desired shape.

For a long, these two processes were performed independently. Now, the two processes can be integrated and done simultaneously by a highly precise and accurate CNC mill-turn machine. This can then lead to the creation of various shapes and geometries for different materials, including metals and plastics.

Working Principle of CNC Mill Turn Machines

CNC mill-turn machines can perform milling and turning at the same time. By implication, the CNC mill-turn centers do the work of both a mill and a lathe. Here’s an overview of the working principle of CNC mill-turn machines.

First, a part is created. The CNC mill turn center starts work on the workpiece, which is a large block of material. The initial process, which is the turning process, is done using various cutting tools to remove material from the rotating workpiece. The aim of this stage is to shape the workpiece into cylindrical parts.

After the turning process, the workpiece moves past a rotational cutting tool, which also removes material from the workpiece. This is the milling stage, and the aim is to create flat and irregular surfaces.

Mill-turn machines produce CNC turning milling parts with a high degree of precision, accuracy, and speed. Also, the machine is flexible and is useful for several different shapes on a variety of materials.

Common Configurations of CNC Mill Turn Centers

Depending on the way the machine tool holds the workpiece, CNC mill-turn centers can belong to either of two configurations. They are:

Horizontal CNC Mill-Turn Machine

This is the commonest configuration in many CNC turning centers, but its use in CNC mill-turn machines is not as pronounced. Here, the spindle of the CNC mill-turn machine has a horizontal orientation, and workpieces are therefore held horizontally. The cutting tools are out of the side of the holder.

This configuration is not as strong as the vertical configuration because gravity does not contribute to fixing the workpiece into the holding. Therefore, it is rarely used for large and heavy workpieces.

Vertical CNC Mill-Turn Machine

In vertical CNC mill-turn machines, the spindle of the machine has a horizontal orientation, and workpieces are held vertically. The cutting tools in this configuration are in a similar direction as the holder. Because of gravity, vertical CNC mill-turn centers are stronger and more stable than their horizontal counterparts.

This configuration is particularly useful when machining large and heavy workpieces, as gravity contributes to the solid seating of these large materials into the holding.

Benefits of CNC Mill-Turn Machining

CNC turning and milling parts are becoming increasingly common in many industries today. This is large because of its benefits over traditional individual milling and turning machines. Below, we consider some of these benefits.

Machining Complex Parts

There is a limit to the geometric complexity that traditional machining tools can handle. Also, when machining some complex parts, machinists may need to transfer parts from one machine to another machine.

The CNC mill-turn machine solves this problem as it can create complex geometric shapes, and without the need to transfer materials as well. This improves both the quality of the product and the efficiency at which manufacturing companies can create these complex products.

Improve Speed

One of the major selling points of CNC mill turn machines is the speed at which they carry out their operations compared to traditional machining tools. Traditionally, machinists would need to set up a workpiece on a lathe and complete turning operations on a part, before setting up the workpiece on a mill and commencing milling operations.

But since the CNC mill turn machine can carry out both processes simultaneously, machinists only set up the workpiece once and don’t have to move the parts until the process is completed. This hastens production and increases productivity in manufacturing industries.

Better Accuracy

CNC machines generally are very accurate, and this holds true for CNC milling and CNC turning operations. However, there is even increased accuracy with CNC mill-turn centers. This is largely because there is no need for the machinist to set up the raw material (workpiece) more than once over the course of the entire operation. This is in contrast to handling milling and turning operations on separate machines where operators still need to adjust and move parts after one of the operations is complete.

The high accuracy and reproducibility that CNC mill-turn machines offer are of even greater benefit when manufacturing parts where tolerance values are marginal. With such parts, even the slightest of errors when moving and readjusting parts can lead to the failure of the entire CNC machining process.

Other Machining Activities

Aside from milling and turning, CNC mill-turn machines can be programmed to perform several different tasks. This, in turn, means manufacturing industries can use the machines for a variety of machining projects.

Also, some of the tasks that machinists would otherwise concern themselves with, like loading workpieces, removing parts, and probing can be fully automated and handled by the machine. The result is more time for the operator to handle other tasks, and generally, an increase in productivity in the industry.

Applications of CNC Mill-Turn Technology

Considering the fact that operators can program CNC mill-turn centers to carry out a wide variety of complex operations, it is no surprise that they are employed for a lot of tasks in a lot of industries. Some of these industries include:

Aerospace: CNC mill-turn machines can help in the manufacturing of airplane and satellite components.

Medical: The medical industry is not new to CNC machining, and manufacturers often turn to CNC mill-turn centers for implants and prostheses, and other medical equipment with similarly complex designs.

Automotive: Steering equipment, engine components, and shafts are typical parts that manufacturers use CNC mill-turn centers to create.

Electronics: Complex electronic hardware parts, like motherboards, circuit boards, and amplifier housings, usually require a high degree of precision and accuracy to manufacture. As CNC turning milling parts usually guarantee this level of precision and accuracy, mill-turn operations are common in the electronics industry.

Energy: The oil and gas industry utilizes CNC mill-turn machining for parts that ensure the proper flow of fuel. Also, nuclear power plants often require complex parts with low tolerance limits, and CNC mill-turn machines can help accomplish this.

Get Quality CNC Mill-Turn Machining Services at WayKen

CNC mill-turn machining is getting more popular by the day in manufacturing industries. This is not surprising, considering the benefits it offers over traditional tools. However, the benefits of these mill-turn machining services are only maximized when done correctly and by the right professionals.

Fortunately, at WayKen, we have the right professionals to help you get high-quality mill-turn machined parts. We offer a full range of mill-turn services at affordable prices and fast turnaround. Just upload your CAD files and get DfM feedback today!

Conclusion

From CNC turning and CNC milling basics, it is clear that both operations are primarily different in that milling involves rotation of the tool, with the workpiece, held still while turning involves rotation of the workpiece. Traditionally, machinists had to complete one operation first before moving on to the next.

However, with the advancement of technology, it is possible to carry out both operations simultaneously using a CNC mill-turn machine. Aside from the relatively fast speed of production, CNC mill-turn centers also guarantee high accuracy and precision for complex parts. This has, therefore, justified its use in many industries today.

Kings and queens will love the FurHaven Farmhouse Cat Playground – Corrugated Scratcher House with Catnip!

• Two level home scratchers
• Hanging toys and wand
• Great for multiple cats
• Eco-friendly

Why We Love It:

Cats will love to stretch out and scratch in the FurHaven Farmhouse Cat Playground! Protect your furniture from damage with this eco-friendly cat scratcher, made with recycled materials and completely recyclable in return. Catnip also included to entice even the most finicky feline friends. With multiple levels for your kitty to scratch and nap on, the playtime possibilities are endless. Multi-cat households will appreciate the individual and private spots – no more furry fights over territory!

Dimensions: 

27.5” x 16.5” x 31”

谷歌地图是领先的位置数据和可视化平台的网络。你可能会用它来寻找最快的方式开车到你的朋友的房子，哪辆公共汽车去上班，或者在凌晨2点在哪里得到安慰食物。

然而，谷歌地图的功能远远超出了它的移动的应用程序-如果你运行一个商业网站或应用程序，并希望以任何方式包括位置显示，谷歌地图提供开发人员API，授予访问谷歌的大量地理数据。

使用Google Maps API，您可以显示交互式地图，并在您的网站上按您想要的方式进行自定义。如果你是一个旅游网站，你可以利用地图来帮助用户创建行程。送货或拼车服务可能会使用谷歌地图来显示司机路线。Google地图数据也会实时刷新，这意味着您使用Google API创建的地图将始终为访问者提供最新信息。

实际上有无数种方法可以将地图整合到您的网站中，并且有很多方法可以解压缩，因此让我们从基础知识开始：什么是Google Maps API，以及如何开始？

什么是Google Maps API？

Google Maps API是一种API（“应用程序编程接口”的缩写），允许开发人员访问Google Maps数据和功能，用于他们自己的项目。如果您想在您的网站或应用程序中加入自定义的Google地图，可以使用Google地图API。

目前，Google Maps Platform为其服务的不同方面提供了多个API。有一个用于简单Google地图嵌入的Maps Static API，一个用于交互式和可定制地图的Maps JavaScript API，一个用于访问有关兴趣点的数据的Places API，以及一个用于提供到某个位置的路线的Directions API，仅举几例。

您可能不会在您的网站上使用每个Google Maps API，但您可能需要几个API集成，具体取决于您正在寻找的功能。当您注册使用API时，您将可以访问所有这些API以及其他开发人员工具。

那么，你实际上如何访问谷歌地图API？第一步是注册并获得API密钥。让我们学习如何。

如何获取Google Maps API密钥

API键是与项目关联的唯一代码。API将密钥分发给用户，以便跟踪API的使用情况。您向API发出的请求包括您的API密钥，因此API知道是您发出请求。

API密钥还有助于调节API在任何给定时间接收的调用数量并防止攻击。如果没有API密钥，恶意请求的涌入可能会使任何API服务器崩溃。

要调用Google的API，首先需要获取服务的API密钥。获得密钥本身是免费的，谷歌提供了一个有限的免费试用，其中包括300美元的信贷，为您的前90天的使用。

试用后，Google将每月为您的地图API使用提供200美元的积分。当您超出此积分后，Google将以按使用付费的模式收费-请参阅下面的Google地图API定价以获取更多信息。

请注意，注册免费密钥时，您需要提供账单信息。但是，除非您在帐户中打开自动计费功能，否则Google不会因超出试用限制而向您收取费用。这意味着您可以测试API，而无需担心意外的费用。

如何创建一个谷歌地图API键免费

要注册并接收Google Maps API密钥，请执行以下步骤：

1.在Google Maps Platform主页上，单击“开始使用”。

2.如果您尚未登录Google帐户，系统将提示您登录或创建帐户。

3. Google将带您完成注册Google Cloud Platform免费试用版的步骤。阅读并同意服务条款，然后单击继续。

谷歌地图API免费密钥

4.在下一个屏幕上，输入您的电话号码以确认您的身份，然后单击“发送代码”。输入您收到的验证码，然后单击验证。

5.在下一个屏幕上，选择您的帐户类型（企业或个人）并输入您的企业名称。然后，输入您的信用卡或借记卡信息（或PayPal或银行账户信息）。除非您启用自动计费，否则Google不会向您收取使用费。

6.您将收到您的API密钥，您可以将其复制到剪贴板。请安全地保存此密钥，不要将其共享给使用API的团队成员。您还可以选择启用对所有Google Maps API的访问，并接收每月预算提醒。

7.如果愿意，请单击构建演示以了解地图API的基础知识。否则，请单击“以后再说”。现在，让我们选择以后。

8. Google还建议限制使用您的API密钥的请求，以防止在密钥被盗的情况下进行有害使用。要限制密钥，请从选择限制类型选项卡（取决于您的项目）中选择限制类型，以及限制所需的任何其他信息。然后，单击“限制密钥”。

完成这些步骤后，您就可以使用Google Maps API了。

如何查看Google地图API密钥

您可以通过从Google Maps Platform仪表板的侧边菜单中选择凭据来查看API密钥。

谷歌地图API定价

如前所述，在您打开自动计费功能之前，不会对您使用Google地图API的情况进行收费。免费试用限制您在90天内的信用额度为300美元。

API用户每月还可以获得200美元的API请求积分，相当于每月100，000个静态地图请求或大约28，000个动态地图请求。

除了试用和每月积分外，谷歌还根据请求数量的使用情况对地图API收费。收费因请求类型而异-例如，如果您只想在网站上显示静态地图作为图像，Google将收取每1000个请求2美元的费用。对于交互式地图，每1000个请求7美元。

您可以在Google地图API定价页面上查看所有API产品的定价，并按API类别（地图、路线和地点）分组。

如何在网站上使用Google Maps API

一旦你获得了你的API密钥，你如何在你的网站上放置地图将取决于什么CMS，网站建设者，或平台，你用来管理你的网站，或者如果你是从头开始创建你的网站。

如果可用，请阅读提供商有关合并Google地图的文档-有些文档允许您在提供API密钥后插入本地地图模块（例如，Shopify），而其他则需要第三方扩展（例如WordPress）。

如果您选择的网站工具没有对Google Maps API的本机支持，或者您正在从头开始编写网站，则可以按照Google Maps Platform文档中的说明编写所需功能的地图代码。如果你坚持谷歌的指示，发出API请求相对简单。

作为一个简单的使用案例，尝试谷歌的地图JavaScript API教程。地图JavaScript API处理您可能从Google地图中看到的许多交互式功能。在本练习中，您将在澳大利亚地图上放置一个标记。

谷歌地图API替代品

Google Maps Platform是交互式在线地图的领导者。但是，您可能更喜欢比Google工具更便宜或提供不同功能的替代品。以下是一些值得探索的Google Maps API的流行替代品。

苹果地图

Apple Maps的开发者工具提供与Google Maps Platform类似的功能，提供对详细地图位置数据、导航等的访问。苹果的工具可以用于网站和应用程序。另外值得注意的是它新的室内映射数据格式，对于在您的站点或应用程序上绘制室内布局非常有用。

TomTom

TomTom以其导航产品而闻名，它通过其高级API使开发人员可以访问其数据。它允许比Google Maps API服务更多的请求，以及各种地图视图。此外，还有查找位置，查看交通和公共交通，并获得方向的能力。

Mapbox

如果您希望为地图添加更多的视觉效果，可以利用Mapbox API中的自定义工具。这项高级服务提供的地图和服务类似于以前的选项，但也包括Mapbox工作室，一个地图定制器，让您调整您的地图显示，因为您可能在一个工具，如Photoshop。它可以让你调整你的地图的小细节，使你自己的视觉效果。

HERE

HERE是一个强大的位置数据平台，提供数据可视化，洞察报告和地图。地图本身视觉丰富，美观，以及可定制。您可以创建显示公共区域的地图以及私人空间的地图。但是，如果您只想在网页上显示交互式地图，那么此选项可能会大材小用。

将您的业务放在地图上

……或者我应该说，是你生意上的一张地图。Google Maps API有很好的文档记录，如果您通常熟悉API，那么开始使用并不太困难。

通过一些探索，你可能会发现一些你以前没有想到的应用程序，并整合地图来增强你的网站或服务。另外，获得免费密钥并使用您的免费请求来查看您可以做什么也没有坏处。

原文链接：https://blog.hubspot.com/website/google-maps-api

整个科技行业利润丰厚。事实上，据估计，2022 年全球信息技术行业的价值约为 5.3 万亿美元。当然，你能分得多大的一杯羹取决于你的产品有多好、有多有用，以及对它们的需求有多大。有了好的产品，你的企业就能不断取得成功。

表现良好的一个特定领域是API（应用程序编程接口）市场。2021 年全球市场价值为23.9 亿美元，预计到 2030 年将达到 132.1 亿美元，在此期间的复合年增长率高达 23.83%。预计美国也将在这些年获得最大的市场份额。

应用程序编程接口到底是什么？也许更重要的是，如果您开发 API，您如何将您的产品货币化，以确保您的组织盈利？

什么是 API？

应用程序编程接口 (API) 是一组协议和定义，可帮助开发人员集成或构建应用程序软件。API 允许一个产品或应用程序与其他产品或应用程序进行有效通信。它们可以使应用程序开发变得更加简单，因为 API 具有以下优势：

• 更易于管理
• 灵活性
• 简化设计
• 创新能力
• 易于使用

API 使开发人员能够更轻松地将新组件集成到现有应用程序或架构中。由于数字市场瞬息万变，API 使公司能够快速开发和部署新应用程序（或改进现有应用程序）。由于当今大部分应用程序开发都是基于云的，因此 API 在连接微服务应用程序架构时提供了更快捷的解决方案。

API 货币化有哪些类型？

API 货币化有两种类型：直接货币化和间接货币化。您的 API 适合哪种类型取决于其使用方式。

1. API 直接 货币化

虽然许多企业可能希望直接获利，但实际情况是，这种类型在很大程度上取决于您开发的 API 及其使用方式。采用直接获利的 API 产品包括 Google Maps 或 Stripe。此类产品每次进行 API 调用时都会收取非常小的费用，但此类调用有数十亿次。

任何类型的 API 盈利都是任何刚开始使用 API 的企业或以前仅将 API 用于内部用途、现在希望面向更广阔市场进行开发的企业的目标。他们看到使用直接 API 盈利的企业有多么成功，并试图效仿他们。现实情况是，这些直接模式并不总是适合您的产品，您需要考虑其他方式让您的 API 盈利。

2. API 间接货币化

间接 API 盈利是指 API 本身没有实际价格标签的情况；其使用是免费的。但是，该 API 在您开发或参与开发的应用或产品中起着核心作用。因此，尽管 API 本身是免费的，但它参与开发的应用或产品依赖于该 API，收入来自产品本身。当您考虑不同的产品（例如HelloSign 与 DocuSign ）时，您应该查看这些产品是否以任何方式使用 API。

因此，尽管您可能认为在这种情况下 API 不会盈利，但事实是，应用或产品的成功取决于您的 API，因此您从该产品中赚取的任何收入都取决于您的 API。通过间接 API 盈利，您仍可通过开发 API 赚取收入。

什么是API 货币化模式？

当您查看 API 货币化时，API 本身与所销售的产品或应用之间存在不同的模式，这可以帮助您确定是采用直接还是间接 API 货币化模式。它们描述了 API 与其使用的产品之间可能存在的不同关系。此列表并未涵盖所有可能的模式，但肯定描述了需要考虑的主要模式。

1. API 作为产品模式

如果您开发的 API 可以描述为独立产品，那么您很可能属于直接 API 货币化类别。事实上，这是唯一允许直接货币化的 API 关系，因为您的 API 是消费者和公司想要和需要的实际产品。

2. API 作为数据馈送模式

在这种模式下，产品依靠 API 向其输入数据，以便有效工作。这种模式的典型例子是 Shopify 或 eBay 等销售平台。这些平台依靠 API 让用户向平台添加新产品。当这些产品售出时，API 本身也会产生收入。

3. 销售中的 API（或分销渠道中的 API）模式

在这种模式下，您的 API 有助于销售产品或提供销售产品的线索。这种模式的典型例子包括 Agoda 等旅游网站，这些网站的 API 允许您与旅游保险提供商建立联系。在许多情况下，API 嵌入到客户旅程中，通过提供“一站式服务”，可以为客户提供便利。

4. API 作为功能模式

这种模式有时被称为生态系统 API，因为它是外部可见的，并且可以将特定产品链接到其他产品。借助这些 API，您可以跨应用程序或产品自动化、通知和同步数据。生态系统 API 允许最终用户将产品（例如流媒体音乐服务）与他们已有的产品（例如专用音乐播放器）集成在一起。

5. 内部 API模式

这可以采取不同的形式，因为内部 API 可以存在于软件或硬件产品中。在这里，API 对最终用户不可见，但它是产品不可或缺的一部分。内部 API 是全渠道旅程或智能设备的动力。内部软件 API 的一个例子是 Amazon Prime。它使用内部 API 来同步您的设置和首选项。内部硬件 API 的一个例子是能够通过移动设备设置您家里的暖气，这样当您到家时暖气就会打开。

如何实现 API 货币化？

因此，要理解的主要一点是，直接 API 货币化源自您的 API 是实际产品，而间接 API 货币化则是产品的重要组成部分，使该产品在竞争对手中脱颖而出。在这种情况下，您通过吸引人们购买产品来赚钱。

如果您的企业生产的产品不是 API，那么转向直接通过 API 获利将需要大量工作和努力。您更有可能考虑 API 如何增强您的产品，并让您的 DevOps 团队考虑如何开发和部署这些 API，以使您的产品性能更好。

当然，您可以考虑开发能够直接盈利的 API，但这在一定程度上意味着您的业务模式需要改变，因为它需要确定想要购买这些 API 的新客户群。您的现有客户更有可能关注产品本身，而不是将 API 作为单独的产品。

然而，许多科技公司会考虑开发适合直接盈利模式的 API，作为长期数字化转型战略的一部分。您应该首先研究间接 API 盈利模式，看看这是否是您可以在短期内做的事情。您可能会发现，某些 API 不仅适合您的产品并使其变得更好，而且也可以用于其他产品。

结论

在了解如何实现 API 货币化时，了解 API 在总体规划中的位置至关重要。例如，是否可以将您的 API 添加到最佳报价软件中，以改善服务并改善最终用户体验，同时销售更多产品？

重点是 API 是否可以变现。下一步是决定现有 API 是否可以实现直接或间接变现。如果只是后者，你还需要决定是否要增加可以直接变现的 API 的开发，并将其添加到你的名单中。

另外要记住的是，在某些情况下，API 货币化可能并不容易实现。这取决于您的特定业务模式，您的 API 是否符合允许其产生收入的模式，以及您的组织是否准备好采用新想法（如果需要）并转向货币化模式。

原文链接：API Monetization: How You Can Make a Profit With API Products

#Industry News

Sharebot Innovations at Formnext Frankfurt: New SnowWhite2 HT 3D Printer & IAmSharebot AI Platform

Formnext 2024: Innovation and AI support from Sharebot: high performance with the new SnowWhite2 HT and intelligent assistance with IAmSharebot

Sharebot is proud to announce the launch of SnowWhite2 HT (High Temperature), the latest evolution in professional 3D printing, which will be showcased for the first time at the Formnext Fair in Frankfurt, a leading event for the additive manufacturing industry. This debut marks a significant milestone for Sharebot, as SnowWhite2 HT aims to meet the growing demands for precision, reliability, and speed in industrial and professional sectors. With the introduction of SnowWhite2 HT, Sharebot takes an important step toward satisfying the increasing need for high-level precision, reliability, and efficiency required by these industries.

The SnowWhite2 HT printer is designed to deliver top-tier performance by utilizing high-temperature materials and advanced technologies to achieve outstanding results. Targeted toward sectors such as aerospace, automotive, jewelry, and advanced prototyping, this 3D printer stands out for its ability to handle complex processes with speed and precision. By using professional-grade powders, SnowWhite2 HT expands application possibilities, meeting the needs of companies seeking increasingly advanced and flexible 3D printing solutions.

In parallel with the SnowWhite2 HT launch, Sharebot is also introducing IAmSharebot, an advanced AI-based technology designed to answer technical questions about SnowWhite and optimize printing process management by providing detailed support. This advanced AI platform not only simplifies workflow and reduces margins of error but also enhances operational efficiency, ensuring consistent quality and optimizing processes for professionals and businesses.

We invite the press and industry professionals to visit the Sharebot booth at Formnext to discover SnowWhite2 HT and experience IAmSharebot firsthand. We are confident that this innovative combination of hardware and software represents a leap forward in professional 3D printing, opening new opportunities for companies around the world.

More information

You may have a question: I have a great design, and it prototypes need to be made. What do I need to do to make it work perfectly? Or another question: My project needs a reliable, consistent manufacturer to help me make the parts I want, what do I need to work on?

Before you can address these questions, you need to consider how do you go about finding a supplier? How much does it cost to build a prototype? How protected is your design? And so on.

I will use my knowledge and experience to try to answer you.

3 ways to contact the manufacturer in China

Before that, it’s a good idea to try to get manufacturing services from a manufacturer in your area. A manufacturer that you can keep an eye on the progress of your project and communicate with in a timely manner can make your project run more smoothly.
But you can have more options, this is an era of economic globalization, so manufacturers in surrounding areas or even neighboring countries can serve you.

If you want to choose a cost-effective manufacturer, I would recommend you to try your luck in China. As a world manufacturing center, it has thousands of factories that are unmatched in any part that needs to be customized. This is something that will save you a lot of time searching for the right manufacturer – after all, it will be far less difficult to find water in the ocean than in the desert. And Chinese manufacturing has a price advantage over developed countries like the US or UK.

1. Using Internet to Search

Using the Internet and channels like Alibaba to post and search for information is a good option for you to find the corresponding manufacturer and establish contact. Please note that the best option is to communicate with them by the most traditional emails, trying to describe the details of your project is the basis for them to provide you with better service.

2. Attending exhibitions

Attending various exhibitions to find your suppliers is also a very good choice, you can communicate with them face to face and discuss your needs, and initially assess their services and manufacturing capabilities. Of course, during the pandemic, there will be some risk in attending the exhibition.

3. Through an experienced person’s referral

First, you should make sure that the referred manufacturer already has a good working relationship with the referrer. You can determine if it is suitable for you by the projects they have exchanged between them. Cost, delivery time, communication details, etc. are all things that can be used as a judgment.

If you have found several target suppliers through the above, please pay attention to the close communication with them for your project. Here it takes some time to grind with them, each supplier has different advantages, and you can determine which supplier you need to help you for which project through quotation and trial order. Of course, I believe you will find a quality manufacturer that you can work with tacitly.

What costs should you consider when choosing a manufacturer?

1. Communication and time costs.

During project design, you may have spent a lot of time discussing options and working out details. So during the manufacturing phase you want to save time and get the prototype manufactured as soon as possible. So during the communication phase with the manufacturer, please try to let them know the details and uses of your design. A quality manufacturer will propose multiple options for DFM and cost reduction based on your product, which can save a lot of communication time.

In addition to this, describe your requirements as clearly as possible. For example, you need a black look, but black includes matte black, glossy black, and various shades. If you do not specify your requirements, it will be difficult for the manufacturer to provide you with a product that satisfies you, which, of course, will occupy the communication time of both parties. Moreover, repeated trials will raise the cost a lot.

Describe your design and requirements, drawings and details to your manufacturer as much as possible, which will make your project completed sooner.

2. Production costs

We all know that the price of a prototype is much higher than the price of a finished product, so make sure you have the optimal design and manufacturing solution and determine the manufacturing specifications, considering various requirements: materials, surface finish, dimensional tolerances, etc., before mass producing the product.

Also, in terms of cost savings on prototypes, a quality manufacturer will provide you with a range of options based on their proven team and years of experience that will save you money and time while maintaining product quality. If your manufacturer asks you a lot of questions about your prototype and makes a lot of suggestions for improvement, then congratulations on finding a manufacturer who is truly willing to add value to you. They are willing to spend time on your prototype to make suggestions and communicate efficiently, not just to quote. This will avoid surprises and save you a lot of money in all the projects you work on together.

3. Manufacturer Costs

A manufacturer needs a period of time to determine if it is a quality manufacturer worth working with.

In the early stages of finding your partner, you need to avoid some middlemen to complete your project because they will send your project information to multiple manufacturers and you don’t want your product to be copied before it is released, which can be costly. If you find a manufacturer you think is a good fit, ask them to show their certifications and factory profile and sign an NDA before working with them. If necessary, make a site visit to their factory.

conclusion

A manufacturer should be with punctuality, the ability of cost control, flexible manufacturing options and advice. For example, if your project is urgent but the manufacturer cannot schedule your project for manufacturing ahead of time, then this would be bad news.A quality manufacturer can be approximated as your company’s manufacturing department, and with a long-term stable cooperation, you can completely save off a lot of time and cost to focus on your product, which is certainly an assistant to help you and your company grow.

If you are confused about how to find a quality manufacturer.

Please allow me to introduce WayKen. As a professional rapid manufacturer, WayKen’s mission is to help clients produce the best Visual Design Models, Full-functional Engineering Prototypes or Low volume production runs that allow them to thoroughly prove their designs and help them focus on the key elements of product development. We welcome your inquiries at any time.

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