Austin Weber

CEOs on the Line?

February 22, 2011

The most recent episode of “Undercover Boss” featured Denny Slagle, president and CEO of Mack Trucks Inc. Other top execs should get out from behind their desks and learn more about plant operations.

Aluminum Wire Processing Challenges

Austin Weber

February 15, 2011

Aluminum wire and cable can be more difficult to feed, cut, crimp, strip and splice than its copper counterparts. However, numerous processing methods are currently under investigation.

Automating Small-Batch Welding

Austin Weber

January 28, 2011

Traditionally, manufacturers have relied on manual welding to assemble high-mix, low-volume products. But, more companies are turning to a new breed of flexible robots, software and controls.

The 'Holy Grail' of Diabetes Management

Austin Weber

January 28, 2011

Medical device engineers are working on a wide variety of new products that address the unique needs of diabetics. The “holy grail” is a closed-loop blood glucose monitoring and insulin pump, sometimes referred to as an artificial pancreas.

What Do Top Plants Share in Common?

Austin Weber

January 28, 2011

Although the mainstream media doesn’t talk about it too much, many U.S. assembly plants stack up admirably against their counterparts in China, India, Mexico and other overseas locations.

It's Time to Stick It

Austin Weber

January 4, 2011

In just a few years, we’ll mark the centennial of an important milestone in world history – the moving assembly line. It’s something that is worthy of a commemorative U.S. postage stamp.

Medical Device Assembly: Diabetic Devices Drive Growth

Austin Weber

December 22, 2010

Medical device engineers are scrambling to develop products that are less invasive, easier to use and cheaper to mass-produce.

Wire Processing: Aluminum Wire Takes on Copper

Austin Weber

December 22, 2010

Recent price fluctuations have forced some manufacturers to consider alternatives to copper wire, such as copper-clad aluminum, solid-core aluminum and composite wire.

On Campus: Purdue Studies the Interaction of People, Computers and Machines

Austin Weber

December 22, 2010

Purdue's PRISM Center studies the critical role that computing technology plays in manufacturing.

New Manufacturing Process Could Boost Demand for Conductive Plastic

Austin Weber

December 17, 2010

Engineers at Princeton University have developed a new way to manufacture electronic devices made of plastic that is translucent, malleable and able to conduct electricity.