WESTBROOK, ME—Systems integrator Lanco Integrated has completed an automated assembly system to produce components for coronavirus test kits. Typically, designing and building such a machine would take approximately 35 weeks, including design, engineering and manufacturing. Lanco had it ready in just eight weeks.
VERONA, WI–ACS, an equipment and controls integrator, recently broke ground on its new headquarters here, which will include a mix of office and manufacturing space.
In my first postcollege job, I was a manufacturing engineer for Cummins Engine Co. in Columbus, IN. Two weeks into the job, my boss came to me with a project to purchase an industrial wash system, and I leaped at the opportunity. It was a disaster.
When manufacturing engineers are tasked with automating a process that is currently done manually, their main question for an automation supplier is, "Have you ever automated this specific process before?"
COOKEVILLE, TN—Integrator and specialty machine builder ATC Automation recently expanded its operations here with a 72,000-square-foot facility focused solely on clean assembly. An open house held May 16-18 to celebrate the new facility drew nearly 700 people, including employees and their families, local chamber of commerce members, customers and supplier representatives. Visitors were able to view more than 25 robots performing their routines, as well as machine assembly operations.
Regardless of its size or past performance, every technological device can always benefit from a little help, including the very famous and large (43.3 by 13.8 feet) Hubble Space Telescope.
All right, Christmas shoppers, be honest. Let’s say your spouse wants a new digital camera. You visit your local camera shop to seek advice from a knowledgeable clerk.
COOKEVILLE, TN—Systems integrator ATC Automation is investing $10.4 million to expand its operation here and create 110 new jobs during the next five years.
With the cost of automated assembly systems running six or even seven figures, choosing the right integrator and establishing a good relationship are critical.
There are many ways to run a custom machine building business. Some systems integrators are dedicated to a particular industry, such as auto parts manufacturing. Others specialize in a particular kind of assembly machine, such as high-speed continuous motion systems.