Part Transfer Methods for Material Handling Automation
When designing a machine or LEAN work cell to assemble a product, it is very common for the engineering team to break a complex assembly process down into the individual elements required to complete the job. These elements or tasks may be manual, automated or a combination of both. They can also be quite different […]
The Trend Towards Outsourcing Vertically Integrated Content in the Semi Tool Industry
Virtually, all semiconductor equipment OEMs outsource at least some of the content of their product to machine shops, fabrication shops and/or sheet metal shops. The benefits of outsourcing are clear: tool producers can leverage comparative advantage and specialization in the supply chain. Increasingly, tool manufacturers of various sizes are beginning to see the advantages of […]
3D Vision and Robotic Bin Picking – Recent Technological Advancements and Recommendations
Robotic bin picking is an extremely challenging task for the teams of engineers who design, build and program this type of cutting-edge automation equipment. Their computerized electro-mechanical systems must identify, locate, grasp and accurately reposition objects that are randomly stacked within the reach of a robotic arm outfitted with a custom end effector. A relatively […]
Coronavirus: As needs for personal protective equipment rise, companies respond with custom machinery
If you’ve been following the recent updates in the COVID-19 outbreak, you may have noticed rising concerns about the anticipated demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) in hospitals and health care facilities. As many countries around the world have experienced shortages in critical medical supplies, companies with manufacturing capabilities and capacity can play a crucial […]
Coronavirus: Contract manufacturers are ready to step up to the need for medical ventilators
Among the headlines detailing the latest news in the coronavirus outbreak, you may have seen rising concerns about the anticipated demand increase for medical ventilators. While it is expected that the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases will continue to climb in the coming weeks and months, we do not need to accept a future where […]
Pillars of Supply Chain Management
Diligent supply chain management is essential to every successful enterprise. Suppliers provide the materials and critical infrastructure necessary for product realization. They act as agents of delivery for products and they provide the tools, utilities and even training necessary for everyday operations. Managing suppliers and understanding the intricacies of operational supply chain management ensures performance […]