Trade Fair USA: Smart Technology Improves Processes

Process improvement holds the spotlight at the upcoming Motion, Drive & Automation North America (MDA North America), co-located at IMTS from September 12–17, 2016, at McCormick Place in Chicago.

The show, which doubled in size from 2014, offers attendees opportunities to discover the latest advances in process improvement, shifts to single sourcing, and a networking hub of electrical and mechanical power transmission and control, hydraulics and pneumatics.

Technology Advancements

Optimizing a mix of software with equipment presents new ways for manufacturers to monitor performance and improve quality.

“As manufacturers continue to add smart technologies to their equipment, many opportunities exist to improve process efficiency, reduce downtime and increase product quality. However, just because you have more data doesn’t mean you are going to make better decisions,” said Jeremy King, product marketing manager Sensing Technologies, Bimba Corporation. “Manufacturers need to partner with suppliers that not only provide new and different data but also provide actionable insights into their equipment.”

“Manufacturers are looking to do more with less to keep competitive. In the CNC world, this trend means more and more multi-axis and mill turn machines are being purchased, eliminating the need for multiple setups or several different CNC machines. We’ve been laser-focused on getting the most output from these machines with the easiest programming,” said Shaun Mymudes, COO, SolidCAM.

Shift to Simpler Sourcing

In addition to process improvement, MDA North America will offer the latest solutions to help manufacturers optimize their sourcing approach.

“The number of requests for out-of-the box solutions has increased. Sourcing components from multiple vendors can save money if you have time and can work with integrating components,” said Shawn Lawrence, Product Marketing Manager, Hiwin Corporation. “To save time and increase dependability, many buyers now look to their vendors to be a single source for components such as motors, drives and sensors. Motion control manufacturers are working to integrate more components into single systems and integrated sensors for preventative maintenance and safety.”

“Many U.S. and Canadian companies are finding that the perceived advantages of outsourcing to Asia do not come to reality,” said Mymudes. “To solve this, more companies are buying machines to do their own parts and molds.”

(ID:44015520)