Kaizen, or continuous improvement, is a basic tenet of lean manufacturing. It says, in effect, that less-than-optimal is never acceptable. The concept can be applied to every major assembly process, including resistance spot welding.

Linear motor pallet-transfer systems have been around for many years now. These systems work on the principle of a "smart" track, consisting of multiple linear servomotors, and a "dumb" mover outfitted with powerful magnets.

Medical doctors have increasingly become specialized during the last 25 years or so. But, industrial robots have been specialists by design since they began being used for manufacturing in the early 1960s.

Today's printed circuit board assembly line is highly automated. Board loading, paste printing, pick-and-place, reflow, test and inspection - every process is covered by a standard machine, and assemblers have many brands to choose from.