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Evolution is inherent to the materials and equipment used in assembly, regardless of the product being made. For example, semi- and tank trailers increasingly feature composite-material components, along with those made of traditional steel or aluminum.

Some companies have a name that is intentionally meant to be unique. Others have a background story that is just as interesting as the name. Tim Fulton, founder of Phelan, CA-based Alien Machine Worx (AMW), is in the latter camp, having believed from day one that AMW would be "making things out of this world."

Many suppliers have equipment that has been used on one of the Mars rovers over the past 25 years. But, few companies have equipment on multiple rovers. Auburn, MA-based PI USA is one such company.

Preparing existing automotive factories to assemble electric cars requires comprehensive modernization. Certainly, this was the case at Volkswagen's assembly plant in Zwickau, Germany.

Although motors are a fundamental part of any motion system, selecting the right motor for an application is rarely an easy decision. There are various motor technologies to consider, and each has characteristics that can affect the design in different ways.

The BMW Group is using generative design software and additive manufacturing to make production parts at an industrial scale.

Like workers in other industries, those on assembly lines can never afford to take the wrong things for granted. Assuming that automation will always be reliable or that just-good-enough products will keep customers coming back definitely shows a lack of foresight.

During the past decade, the average amount of aluminum in passenger cars has doubled. Based on the latest designs, this trend will continue in the coming years.

Bus bars are an essential component of electric vehicles. This metallic strip or bar efficiently distributes electrical power from high-energy battery packs to electric motors and other devices.