Phase I research will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed Rural Distributed Manufacturing System (RDMS). The RDMS concept has the potential to bring new jobs to rural states. The RDMS is a disciplined framework that ties together technologies and operating techniques to distribute manufacturing work over a region. The RDMS will integrate dispersed labor resources, enabling the manufacture of sophisticated products, such as electronics assemblies. The RDMS concept will be suitable for replication in a wide range of industries, and has the potential for major impact on the quality of life in rural America. In Phase 1, Killdeer Mountain Manufacturing, Inc. (KMM) will develop the operating guidelines and the communications network to operate a RDMS, in part, by establishing a pilot RDMS program. A central location will perform the overhead intensive functions such as procurement, training, and accounting, and distribute assembly work to the satellite facilities. KMM, with its consultants, McDonnell Douglas Aerospace, Dr. Joel Troxler of Montana State University, and the Center for Innovation and Business Development, will provide a metric to monitor community impact and a decision-support model of a RDMS as a virtual enterprise.Applications:When the RDMS concept and its related tools are fully developed, widespread application will allow people in rural areas of America to obtain quality, prime sector jobs in their local communities. The overall quality of life in rural America will be enhanced due to an increased income and enhanced taxbase for improved rural infrastructure. The RDMS concept is designed to apply to a wide range of light manufacturing industries across rural America. To commercialize the RDMS concept, KMM will market an implementation plan, a computer model, and its services as a consultant.
