CMTC Manufacturing Blog

Posted by Steven Brand

In a galaxy far, far away…

Well, how far exactly?

The technological advancements in the Star Wars universe may seem to be the stuff of fantasy. While Death Stars, droid armies, and flying starfighters are still just Hollywood creations, real world robotics have made epic advancements since Episode IV first debuted in 1977 (under the original title of  Star Wars, of course).

Posted by Raminder Sandhu, CMTC Robotics & Automation Practice Lead & Regional Representative for the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute.

Robots are capable of incredible feats well beyond human abilities: Guinness World Records recognizes the Fanuc Corporation’s M-2000iA/2300 Super Heavy Payload Robot as the world’s strongest, capable of moving objects that weigh more than 5,000 pounds.

Strength has long made robots a staple of assembly lines, where their immense power transcends human limitations. But companies are discovering that robots can be leveraged not just to overcome human physical limitations, but mental limitations as well.

Posted by Steven Brand

The manufacturing industry has been making rapid advancements in recent years, paving the way for cutting-edge technologies. With each new innovation, manufacturing gets more efficient and more precise, leading to the cost-effective production of safer and higher-quality products. But despite common perception, not all advancements are just for the manufacturing giants; today, many small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) are able to take advantage of them too. Here’s a look at a handful of recent technologies and topics trending now within the manufacturing industry.

Posted by Steven Brand

While manufacturers have traditionally been hesitant to invest in their operations due to cost, a recent National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) survey of more than 500 manufacturers reveals that 65% plan to increase capital spending in the coming years. Where is the money going to go? Experts predict most manufacturers will look toward revamping their facilities in order to adapt to the demands of today’s digital world.

Posted by Steven Brand

Robotics has come a long way from when they first hit factory floors in the early 1960s. Today’s robots are more intelligent and versatile, and able to go to work with little to no human intervention. And, like anything that’s not fully understood, the rapid advancement and adoption of robotics has produced everything from the fear of "they’re taking over!" to the fear of "we're missing out and we can’t afford them."

Posted by Steven Brand

The manufacturing industry in the U.S. is ripe for a new industrial revolution, and artificial intelligence and robotic automation are set to play a key role in that change. Because manufacturing is a major driving force in a nation’s economic prosperity, it is especially important that small and medium-sized manufacturers pay close attention as these innovative technologies prepare to take center stage.