The challenges to manufacturing as it evolves into the 21st century are now familiar, and impact how metrology must contribute. Manufacturers face uncertain production volumes with roller-coaster demand, shorter production runs and faster product development cycles. Automation, while alluring as a way to reduce cost, needs to adjust.
When you walk into the Redeye On Demand facility in Eden Prairie, MN, you enter into one version of the factory of the future. There you will see a bank of 100 high-end Fortus fused-deposition modeling (FDM) machines from Stratasys that provide the capacity to build real, functional parts with production-grade thermoplastics directly from CAD data.
It is reported that, not too long ago, before the current precipitous decline in machine-tool shipments, the number of 30-taper machines that were being manufactured and sold in Japan had surpassed the numbers of 40-taper and 50-taper machining centers.
Advancements in waterjet technology lead to new uses, industries.
CMMs and other multifunctional metrology devices are becoming faster and more sophisticated, but top-quality gages and measuring tools still have an important place.
ABB Robotics expands manufacturing and training capabilities at Auburn Hills, Mich., facility.
Recycling increases efficiency, enhances brand image and saves money.
From a conventional machine operator to the founder of a company that manufactures high-precision cutting tools, Kumar Arumugam Naidu took his company to the next level through education and key partnerships.
Not every contract manufacturer has the capability to quickly switch production between myriad parts, but that’s exactly the position FPD Co. is in thanks to Grob Systems Inc.’s automated five-axis machining.
Case Study: Cobots help better serve customers and improve environment for workforce
