Predicting the future isn’t what it used to be. It’s actually way better, and that’s great news for manufacturers.

Most manufacturers agree that digital transformation is necessary to remain competitive today and thrive tomorrow. Many large companies have already begun initiatives. But, when asked to quantify the impact of those initiatives on the bottom line, they often come up short.

Some of the largest machinery in the world depends on the smooth operation of tiny ball and roller bearings. Knowing this, manufacturers do all they can to make sure that the bearings they purchase for their equipment are completely free of defects.

Process improvement projects have traditionally struggled with obtaining accurate data quickly and easily. In many cases, various data sources provide competing sources of the truth. Smart technologies offer the means to provide a single source of the truth, without the time-consuming and labor-intensive efforts of the past.

Everybody loves a train, but not necessarily for the same reason. Some people enjoy the rhythmic sound of the moving wheels or the challenge of counting all the railcars as they pass by. Others appreciate the important role that trains play in transporting all types of products across America.

Manufacturers love automation, regardless of whether they make super-large items like airplanes, or small commercial products such as disposable razor blade refills. The reason for this affection is simple: Automated equipment makes things more quickly, accurately, consistently and cost-effectively than people.

KITCHENER, ON—Christie Digital Systems USA Inc. is using robots to automate assembly of its MicroTile LEDs at its new factory here. The robots have tripled output of the line.

QUEBEC CITY—Responding to labor shortage and supply chain challenges, Robotiq has developed a new preconfigured system that enables manufacturers to automate loading and unloading of CNC machine tools with cobots.

Symphoni from ATS Automation is a compact, self-contained, pre-engineered automated assembly cell. Equipped with standard servo-controlled devices, including a high-speed delta robot, the cell can be configured to make a wide range of products, from simple two-piece assemblies to complex products having dozens of components and specialized processes. 

‘Nothing lasts forever’ is an expression, and a reality, that manufacturers of all sizes know all too well. When a product stops working—for whatever reason—the end-user must either repair it or replace it.