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.
Automated manufacturing operations are finely tuned ecosystems in which all components must function in complete harmony. Grippers used to pick and place, orient and hold components or end products at various points along the production chain are key to this process.
It’s easy to become dazed by the continuing stream of buzz words. For those of us in manufacturing, all this buzz creates a sense of impending change, but no clarity on what that change might be. Uncertainty means anxiety.
Not all threaded connections serve similar purposes.The load-carrying needs of an aerospace engine support bolt in a tension assembly greatly exceed those of a simple screw that fastens a cover plate to an electrical wall socket. International thread-acceptance documents and standards recognize this basic engineering fact, and incorporate different thread-inspection requirements into their verification standards.
When it comes to materials, artificial intelligence can automate the screening process, simulate the performance of different materials and identify the best option.
Northrop Grumman's SCRAM system revolutionizes additive manufacturing with integrated continuous carbon fiber for aerospace and defense. It offers cost-effective build-on-demand capabilities, streamlines certification processes, and enhances agility in responding to evolving customer needs.
Going Big on 3D Fiber Laser: Glenn Metalcraft Boosts Efficiency and Capacity with Prima Power's Laser Next 2141
Some comprehensive software platforms now offer a quoting module that can help with this daunting task.
CAD/CAM helps auto racers employ CNC machining to maximum advantage.
Automakers are turning to Feature-based Product Line Engineering (PLE), which allows organizations to plan, engineer, manufacture, deliver, maintain and evolve product lines much more efficiently.
