In the fast-paced world of packaging lines, success or failure depends on the ability to make quick changes. Like death and taxes, changeover is inevitable, and the need for speed has never been more crucial to the consumer goods industry.
These days, it seems that just about everyone is trying to get in on all the federal handouts and economic stimulus incentives that are being kicked around the marble halls of Washington, DC. How about an “Accelerated Retirement of Inefficient Assembly Lines Act”? It would allow American manufacturers to receive some type of monetary (or tax) incentive for scrapping old conveyors, fixtures, parts feeders, robots, screwdrivers, workstations and other production equipment.
Two previous U.S. presidents had the courage, vision and foresight to change the transportation landscape, and transform the economic climate, by spearheading mega-construction projects: the transcontinental railroad (Abraham Lincoln) and the interstate highway system (Dwight Eisenhower). The new Obama administration can make history by creating a world-class high-speed rail network in the United States.
At the recent North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Toyota and other automakers unveiled a wide variety of all-electric vehicles that they hope to have on the market in just a few years. However, the auto industry may remain dominated by cars powered by traditional internal-combustion engines (ICEs) for several more decades.
The manufacturing world is in the midst of its worst downturn in 75 years, with companies are trying all sorts of strategies to cut costs and prop up revenues. However, manufacturers can achieve major cost savings beyond the traditional budget cuts and salary freezes . . . if they rethink and redesign their global manufacturing operations for optimal performance.
Ergonomic guidelines have always been important. However, they are even more critical now because of the changing demographics of the work force. For instance, today’s assembly line workers are often older and more diverse than in the past.
Numerous ergonomic guidelines exist. Unfortunately, they are not always followed correctly on the plant floor. Some manufacturers are indifferent to guidelines because of a lack of understanding, cost-cutting pressure or lean manufacturing initiatives.
Automakers have been pouring billions of dollars into developing fuel cell technology. But, it will be at least another decade before they begin mass production.
Numerous start-up companies are attempting to carve out a niche in the green car market. Unfortunately, they face huge obstacles, such as the global recession, low gas prices and the credit crunch, that will limit their ability to succeed.
