Most manufacturers have relied on third-party vendors to make parts that are then incorporated into the final product. From automakers sourcing stereos and aircraft makers contracting for jet engines to a small bakery ordering plastic bags or a woodshop buying nails, producers of all types have supplemented their internal capabilities through a painstakingly developed supply chain of external vendors.
The basic principles behind the universal joint are centuries old, but the methods to make them are changing.
A look back at SME on its 90th anniversary.
Having a plan for maintaining and improving the performance and reliability of every machine on a shop floor is vital to manufacturing operations. Reliable machines make short-notice production runs possible. And the more flexible manufacturers are, the more new customers they’ll attract.
Just getting familiar with the digital thread? You’ve come to the right place to learn what it is and why you need it for your products.
There's a challenge how to produce more in a smaller manufacturing footprint. Here's an answer.
NASA's John Vickers describes how advanced manufacturing is affecting aerospace.
Applications and new players are on the rise, but challenges remain—including financial concerns.
Warehouses must take a proactive, strategic approach to create a safe working environment.
Robots simply are not used as widely as they could be, due to persistent barriers.