How Machine Shops Can Benefit from New Automation Technology October 9, 2020 As automation technology becomes more effective, cost effective, and easier to implement, job shops are automating more and more of their processes. In this episode, Alan Rooks, editor in chief of Manufacturing Engineering magazine, talks with Michael Gaunce, group manager, stationary workholding for Schunk Inc., about what a small to medium size job shop should consider when starting and exploration into automation; the particular machines or jobs that are easier to automate over others; why high part quantities are not needed in order to automate a job; what types of skills a shop should look for in employees working with automation; and how to define categories for the different styles of automation used in machine tool tending.
Automation, AI, and Interoperability for More Resilient Manufacturing in a Post-COVID World October 12, 2020 Vecna Robotics’ David Clear and SVT Robotics’ TJ Fanning go into reasons manufacturers might want to consider automation and AI. They also look at how to test assumptions and scale with so many variables changing moment by moment. The adage “change is the only constant” has never been more apropos. So, it’s a great time to hear what separates a complex system from a complex adaptive system.
Exactly How to Use Automation to Relieve Pressure September 16, 2020 Catalytic CEO Sean Chou explains the difference between process automation and robotic automation, as well as what it looks like to use automation to augment existing workflows. Importantly, he describes how manufacturers can use automation to do more with less—to lessen supply chain pressures that have grown because of globalization and the Covid-19 crisis. And he details which processes manufacturers can automate to optimize resources and productivity.
Automating Aerospace Manufacturing with FANUC April 29, 2020 Aerospace is thought of as the industry with some of the most advanced technology, including automation. However, especially in automation, that may not be exactly true. In this podcast, Bruce Morey senior technical editor for Manufacturing Engineering magazine talks with Rick Schulz of FANUC America about some of the challenges and misperceptions in using automation more fully in aerospace manufacturing. Mistakes to be avoided, such as simply replacing humans with a robot, and how to use collaborative robots. The main message is that employing automation to its fullest requires a systematic approach to the entire manufacturing process.
Eaton's Plan to Implement Industry 4.0 September 3, 2020 An Eaton executive describes the automotive supplier's plans to utilize Industry 4.0.
Automate the Process, Recover the Profits October 8, 2020 Aerospace OEMs and their supply chains are evolving plans to manage the economic impact caused by the health-related shutdown last spring.
Manual Work Meets Modern Automation, Empowers Workers With Handicaps October 2, 2020 In spite of advancing digitalization, manual workstations are still indispensable because automation is not always profitable with small batch quantities or complex processes.
Welding Automation Addresses Skills Shortage October 5, 2020 Like just about every other manufacturing operation, welding has made the leap into the 21st century with automation, agile manufacturing processes, and offline programming.
The Italian trade show 32.BI-MU is scheduled for live participation from 14 to 17 October, 2020 August 27, 2020 Take a break from the virtual and go live at the 32nd edition of BI-MU. Over 550 companies have confirmed their presence at this Italian trade show for machine tools, robotics and automation in Milan, Italy.
Mitsubishi Electric Automation Announces New Key Leadership Personnel July 9, 2020 Mitsubishi Electric Automation has appointed new executive personnel to grow and increase its presence in the Americas. In a series of hires and promotions, Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc. (MEAU) has named key personnel to new executive positions detailed below.