Will Automation and Robots Change the World? April 3, 2018 I’ve had quite a month, again, covering clever software and gadgets that continue to inch their way into performing tasks once reserved for humans. These tasks range from mundane material handling to highly skilled engineering design. It has made me think quite a bit about how our world of manufacturing and engineering will be affected by all this artificial cleverness.
How Small Shops Can Go Digital — Economically! April 4, 2018 In the early days at CNC Software, we saw that our Mastercam CAD/CAM system was only part of a larger manufacturing solution and that an open architecture foundation could allow seamless data communication with complementary devices and systems across the shop floor.
Process Reliability: The Springboard to Efficiency March 6, 2018 I’m among the first to dive into the latest manufacturing innovations and see how they can improve our customers’ operations. Yet, I’m also among the first to advise them to pause and ensure that the fundamentals of their manufacturing processes are in place before adding something new into the complex mix of functionality and desired outcomes.
Finding the Right Fit with Your Cloud Manufacturing Software Technology May 9, 2018 An interview with Diego Tamburini, Principal Industry Lead, Azure Manufacturing Microsoft Corp.
Automated Coupling Slashes Robotic Welding Cell’s Downtime May 4, 2018 There is no better way to resolve a problem than by eliminating it entirely. At least that’s how KTH Parts Industries Inc. (St. Paris, OH) regarded its decision to automate a manual equipment changeover process for its robotic welding cells.
Nesting Software Propels Part Programming Productivity November 1, 2017 Smarter, faster nesting software programs with better automation and other major improvements are helping fabricators and metalcutters at job shops and other builders inject a jolt of productivity into their factory operations.
Smart Control and HMI Software Designs Help Engineers Build New Networks for the IIoT October 12, 2017 Parker Hannifin’s Marissa Tucker talks with Senior Editor Patrick Waurzyniak
Robots, Shop Personnel Collaborate, Maximizing Synergy and Safety September 11, 2017 Efficient manufacturing calls for coordinated systems of shop personnel, equipment and software. These systems increasingly include robotic technology, as manufacturers recognize the reliability, repeatability and flexibility that robots provide. According to the International Federation of Robotics, the number of industrial robots in use worldwide will increase to around 2.6 million by 2019, about one million more than in 2015. Approximately 70% of industrial robots are used in the automotive, electrical/electronics and metal and machinery industries.
CMMs Stake Their Claim September 6, 2017 An eternal truth is that manufacturing will always push the limits on cost, performance, and especially quality. “Tolerances never get looser, they always get tighter,” remarked Gene Hancz, product specialist, CMM of Mitutoyo America Corp. (Aurora, IL).
NAMRI/SME Highlights Research Innovations at NAMRC Conference September 26, 2017 Manufacturing academics were honored for their service, contributions and outstanding manufacturing research during the annual North American Manufacturing Research Conference (NAMRC), held by the North American Manufacturing Research Institution of SME (NAMRI/SME).