Christie Koester

By now most manufacturers are familiar with and, likely, active participants in Industry 4.0, which combines Internet of Things (IoT)-based technologies, automation and data analysis to squeeze every last drop of productivity from the factory. The next wave – the Fifth Industrial Revolution (Industry 5.0) – builds upon this foundation of sensors, automation and Big […]

Value Engineering is a systematic approach to providing necessary functions for a project while maintaining the lowest possible costs. It is used to improve the value of a product by reducing its cost and increasing its functionality. The Value Engineering concept was first introduced in the 1940s. During the war, there was a shortage of

Machine hazards are a reality for workers in industrial settings. The most challenging areas include those where potentially hazardous operations occur, such as around fast-moving machinery and robots and sources of power. In these locations injuries typically take place at points of operation and machine motion, as well as areas of power transmission, so machine

At its core, an automation system includes a network of integrated sensors, controls and actuators that are designed and built to perform a function with little to no human intervention. Most automation systems are employed to either complete tasks such as pick and place, drilling, welding, coating, painting or packaging in a more efficient or

Put simply, industrial automation is the future. With increased labor needs due to product demand and open positions, automation is the answer for many industries. From manufacturing to breweries, automation is proving to be the ideal coworker for many employees. Rather than taking jobs, automation is filling the need for dirty, dull, and dangerous jobs

There is no question that automation is becoming increasingly essential for businesses across different industries. According to Forbes, companies continue to increase their investment in automation technologies for operations, customer service, finance, and other processes. Automation is being maximized for a wide range of benefits, including increased productivity, improved safety, and better product development. However,