February 2021 Volume 3

AUTOMATION

challenges. We offer a variety of parts feeding systems ranging from orienting feeders for both small and large parts to robotic bin picking systems that come in a number of different configurations to support your needs (see Figure 5). As more companies contemplate reshoring operations back in the U.S., this means finding unique solutions to remain competitive. Automation will continue to be the answer for most companies on how to capitalize on productivity enhancements and cost headwinds of the future. As I spoke with our customer from Texas on their new forging line in the U.S., he said this new turnkey automation made it possible to reshore this line and remain competitive with product coming in from China. It’s clear to me that automation will continue to be a game changer for companies to remain competitive and exceed their productivity targets.

3. Flexibility and Quick Changeovers Flexible automation allows manufacturers more versatility in creating products while minimizing downtime. They are highly adaptable systems with computer input and controls across the entire manufacturing process. Part feeders have become much more flexible to accommodate a wider range of part configurations with minimum changeovers. Flexible feeders are capable of processing multiple product types without retooling the entire machine. As system requirements and demands change, the flexible feeders have the adaptability to handle them. These feeders can manage changes to production schedules, demand patterns, and product mix changes with minimal changeovers. Feedall Automation has beenworkingwith companies in the forging industry to solve their most complex and demanding production

Figure 5: Feedall Automation Forging Part Feeders

References: 1) Labor 2030: The Collision of Demographics, Automation and Inequality, Bain Company: Karen Harris, Austin Kimson, Andrew Schwedel; 2018. 2) Non-farm labor productivity reported by Bureau of labor and statistics December 9, 2020. www.bls.gov/news. release/prod2.nr0.htm ■

Author Jon Cocco is the owner and CEO of Feedall Automation in Cleveland, Ohio. He may be reached at jcocco@feedall.com or 440-942-8100 or follow him on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/joncocco/. For additional information, visit www. feedall.com.

FIA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2021 17