Smart Stuff: Driven by Data, Machines and Tools Almost Think for Themselves
Bill Berutti, CEO at Plex Systems, sums up the status of manufacturing and digitization: “Smart manufacturing isn’t something that will happen years down the road … it’s real, it’s imperative and it’s happening now.”
Posted: July 2, 2021
COVER STORY
Armed with sensors that track everything from vibration and speed to temperature and position, equipment and tools generate volumes of operational data that manufacturers can automatically implement to optimize the production process.
As data collection and analysis solutions become less expensive, the gains resulting from machine learning are more accessible than ever to small- and medium-sized fabrication and machining companies.
Whether you are just starting your digital transformation process or seeking the latest solutions to keep up with customer demands, smart machines and tools simplify the manufacturing process. What’s more, the next generation of workers are tech savvy and tech “native,” growing up surrounded by smartphones, tablets and other devices, which means they are used to working with digital interfaces. They will drive the digital manufacturing workforce.
Fortunately, there are no shortage of innovative companies and solutions to assist in digitizing your shop, developing systems based on your unique needs.
SigmaNEST 21 Unveils the Connected Shop
The SigmaNEST 21 (Cincinnati, OH) software suite closes the gap on manufacturing connectivity with scheduling, quoting, and logistics, informed by CAD/CAM nesting intelligence.
OEM Sees Profitable Growth with ERP Software
Global Shop Solutions (The Woodlands, TX) is a leading developer of ERP software, simplifying the manufacturing industry.
Global Leader in Metal Cutting Extends its Range of Digital Solutions
Sandvik Coromant has extended its CoroPlus digital solutions with its new CoroPlus Tool Supply service, which unites tool inventory management with tool logistics, helping operators to pick and return tools, manage restocking and maintain inventory control using the same interface.
Simcenter Studio Uses AI to Find System Architectures Faster
Siemens Digital Industries Software announces the release of Simcenter Studio software, a web application dedicated to quickly finding the best possible system architectures, searching thousands of possibilities using artificial intelligence (AI) and system simulation.
New Partnership Provides Manufacturers a Path to Industry 4.0 Adoption
Hexagon, a global leader in sensor, software, and autonomous technologies, and Plex Systems, the leader in cloud-delivered smart manufacturing solutions, have formed a strategic partnership.
Leading Technology Company Announces Smart Factory Solutions Team
Bystronic Inc. (Hoffman Estates, IL), a leading global technology company in the field of sheet metal processing, announces it has formed a highly experienced Smart Factory Solutions Team.
Series of Intuitive AI-Enabled Fiber Lasers Can Be Used by Operators of All Skill Levels
MC Machinery (Elk Grove Village, IL), a subsidiary of the Mitsubishi Corp. that supplies and services Mitsubishi Electric lasers and automation systems, announces the release of the GX-F ADVANCED Series of artificial intelligence-enabled fiber lasers.
Zyter Inc.’s (Rockville, MD) Smart Factories offers an end-to-end intelligent solution connecting factory floor machinery, workers, and building systems by using the latest Internet of Things (IoT) technology devices on the company’s digital transformation platform.
Enhanced StateMonitor Software Meets Machine Control Connectivity Needs
The 1.3.0 software upgrade to Heidenhain’s (Schaumburg, IL) StateMonitor system offers manufacturers a modernized and effective way to connect and control their PC systems.