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Meta System Selects Critical Manufacturing MES for New SMT plant
Meta System Selects Critical Manufacturing MES for New SMT plant
22 May 2024, PORTO, Portugal – Critical Manufacturing, a pioneer in future-ready, multisite manufacturing execution systems (MES), announced that Meta System will build a new electronics facility for e-mobility production, managed through Critical Manufacturing MES. The new plant is part of a Meta System initiative to apply advanced digital technologies to meet the growing demand for its products.
Meta System SpA was established in 1973 in Reggio Emilia, Italy. It specializes in the research, development and manufacture of electronic power-conversion systems for the e-mobility sector for use in battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). It supplies devices such as on-board battery chargers, DC/DC converters and combi systems for the world’s leading automotive manufacturers.
The company is renowned for its quality products and continuous innovation, and Meta System’s IT & Digital Transformation Manager Alessandro Salami sees factory MES as fundamental to maintaining its high operating standards: “We were looking for a partner who had knowledge of the processes of the electronics-automotive industry in its DNA and at the same time offered an advanced digital solution. Given the technological revolutions taking place and the speed that must characterize a modern company in adopting them, we needed a partner who was agile in gathering technological opportunities and making them easily available to its customers.”
The Greenfield Challenge
In addition, starting with the need for a greenfield plant, it was necessary to define an implementation roadmap that would support Meta System in growth both in terms of line numbers and in terms of functionality to be added progressively.
The selection process lasted several months, where several market-leading vendors were compared and delved into the methodologies and technologies adopted in several sessions. Salami explains: “Critical Manufacturing also offered the opportunity for a reference visit to a company that was already their customer. What impressed us most was how quickly that customer adopted the solution, and to feel that they own the implementation.
SMT In-Depth Knowledge
Critical Manufacturing expertise was also a decisive factor, as Salami highlights: “Certainly in-depth knowledge of SMT and electronic assembly processes, as well as an extensive library of out-of-box integrations processes made Critical Manufacturing the winning partner in our selection. We are convinced that the chosen solution will enable us to grow rapidly and to successfully meet the challenges that the new plant will offer us in an environment of very high innovation, total automation of factory processes and challenging takt times”.
Michaela Wagner, Sales Manager for SMT Europe at Critical Manufacturing, comments on the benefits of using a modular architecture: “By integrating an MES into a greenfield project, we have not just provided a system, we are setting together with Meta System the foundation for not only meeting today's demands, but exceeding tomorrow's expectations. And then, because we support open integration standards, they can add or change functionality easily, as their business operations change. We look forward to working with them.”
Phase one of the installation will be running in 2024 in Slovakia and Meta System will have a system capable of supporting steady growth for the future.
About Critical Manufacturing
Critical Manufacturing, leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant and a subsidiary of ASMPT, provides the most modern, flexible, and configurable manufacturing execution system (MES) available. Critical Manufacturing MES helps manufacturers stay ahead of stringent product traceability and compliance requirements, reduce risk with inherent closed-loop quality, integrate seamlessly with enterprise systems and factory automation, and provide deep intelligence and visibility of global production operations.
As a result, our customers are Industry 4.0 ready. They can compete effectively and profitably by easily adapting their operations to changes in demand, opportunity, or requirements, anywhere, at any time. For more information, visit www.criticalmanufacturing.com
About ASMPT
ASMPT (HKEX stock code: 0522) is a leading global supplier of hardware and software solutions for the manufacture of semiconductors and electronics. Headquartered in Singapore, ASMPT’s offerings encompass the semiconductor assembly & packaging, and SMT (surface mount technology) industries, ranging from wafer deposition to the various solutions that organize, assemble and package delicate electronic components into a vast range of end-user devices, which include electronics, mobile communications, computing, automotive, industrial, and LED (displays). ASMPT partners with customers very closely, with continuous investment in R&D helping to provide cost-effective, industry-shaping solutions that achieve higher productivity, greater reliability, and enhanced quality.
ASMPT is one of the constituent stocks of the Hang Seng Composite MidCap Index under the Hang Seng Composite Size Indexes, the Hang Seng Composite Information Technology Industry Index under Hang Seng Composite Industry Indexes, and the Hang Seng HK 35 Index. To learn more about ASMPT, please visit us at www.asmpt.com
Media contact:
Shreyasi Bhaumik
BCM Public Relations Ltd.
+44 203 409 5090
s.bhaumik@bcmpublicrelations.com
Greer, SC—Creform Corporation, a manufacturer of unique products for material handling structures has designed and built a stationary flow rack to be used lineside for an assembly line. The flow rack can be virtually used in any industry and for most application and is particular useful holding an optimal amount of inventory at the point of assembly which maximizes floor space. It also can prevent excessive inventory which is one of the seven waste considerations in lean manufacturing. This flow rack contains an “L shaped” slide pipe and skate wheel conveyor.
Creform sales engineers worked closely with the customer to design this customized solution to meet their specific needs. The result is an optimized flow rack where parts and materials are strategically organized at the point of use. This setup enables workers to quickly locate the components they need, reducing downtime and saving time. Creform offers multiple flow lane options and can create virtually any hybrid solution.
The gravity flow rack assists first-in, first out (FIFO) inventory management. ensuring that materials are used in the order that they are received. The compact design allows for lineside placement, minimizing floor space requirements.
The pictured unit is 49" W x 50" D x 63" T, can hold up to 1200 lb. and is built using Creform 28 mm pipe which provides flexibility and reusability for the user. However, higher capacity and custom rack sizes and configurations are possible with Creform’s 42mm product line of pipe and joints. Further, the 42mm product line can integrate seamlessly with the 28mm system.
The flow rack features Five supply levels and one return level on the bottom for product presentation in a modified stair-stepped setup. The flow rack design utilizes Creform’s low friction L shaped gray colored slide pipe for the top 4 levels. The L shaped slide pipe provides containment on both sides to secure the boxes effectively in each lane. Creform’s highly efficient skate wheel conveyor is utilized on the bottom supply level and on the return level. Both of these levels have the conveyors located evenly spaced to accommodate many different sized boxes.
Creform skate wheel conveyors and L shaped slide pipe are suitable for both plastic returnable totes as well as cardboard boxes. Both products provide a long and reliable life span.
Each of the cart’s levels can be repositioned with only simple tools. With this design, each level can be repositioned or whole flow rack customized with only simple tools. This greatly simplifies adjustment.
Creform offers flow racks in a wide variety of pipe colors, and accessories can include information sheet holders, label holders, tool storage, hooks to hang tools and other supplies. As well as built with feet, rather than wheels. Creform Structures can be built for ESD for anti-static applications. Available as a kit or an assembled structure or in the component form for a complete DIY solution.
Creform provides solutions for dynamic material handling needs in the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing. As pioneers in adaptive systems, the company empowers companies to seamlessly integrate continuous improvement methodologies like Kaizen, 5S, and lean manufacturing principles. From robust pipe and joint structures to gravity roller conveyors and cutting-edge AGV technology, Creform equips users with the tools to optimize efficiency across various applications. Whether it's streamlining workflow with flow racks and workstations or enhancing mobility with agile carts and AGVs, the company’s solutions are tailored to elevate your operational performance.
Online at creform.com for additional information regarding Creform Corporation and its products.
“Our two newest products reinforce Toyota’s commitment to environmental stewardship without compromising the efficiency and power of our reliable products,” said Bill Finerty, President and CEO of Toyota Material Handling. “These two new models are impactful in many different applications, meeting the needs of all our customers and harnessing the innovation and power of our electric products.”
The Integrated Mid & Large Electric Pneumatic Forklifts are engineered to meet the most demanding heavy-duty applications, particularly in outdoor environments where robust performance is required for transporting heavy loads.
With load capacities ranging from 8,000 to 17,500 pounds, Toyota’s electric pneumatic forklifts are versatile across various applications. Each model is equipped with an integrated lithium-ion battery, delivering low maintenance and reduced downtime, and powered by a Toyota-designed electric drive system, these forklifts offer the performance of internal combustion (IC) trucks with the efficiency of electric models.
Toyota features AC drive and lift motors for advanced runtime and speed, built to excel in traditional IC environments. Innovative technologies, including a floating cabin and fully electric forklift, provide lower noise levels and reduced vibration, making this forklift model an ideal solution for industries that demand both performance and sustainability.
As a testament to Toyota’s culture of Kaizen – or continuous improvement – Toyota launched an enhanced version of its reliable Core Electric Forklift. This compact, four-wheel electric lift truck is designed for a broad range of indoor applications, with a focus on speed, efficiency and operator comfort. Suited for industries such as retail, manufacturing and food handling, the upgraded model supports load capacities of 3,000 to 6,500 pounds.
Toyota’s Core Electric Forklift delivers efficient uptime and lower energy consumption to maximize productivity and cost efficiency with improved motors and controllers. Toyota designed the new models to prioritize operator comfort with ergonomic enhancements, including larger storage compartments and USB charging features. Offering increased runtime and 34 customizable options, Toyota’s upgraded forklift provides unmatched versatility and efficiency.
Learn more about Toyota and its full line of industry-leading material handling products and solutions here.
About Toyota Material Handling
Toyota Material Handling offers material handling products and solutions, including forklifts, reach trucks, order pickers, pallet jacks, container handlers, automated guided vehicles, and tow tractors, along with aerial work platforms, fleet management services, and advanced automation engineering and design. Toyota’s commitment to quality, reliability and customer satisfaction, the hallmark of the Toyota Production System, extends throughout more than 230 locations across North America. With access to an industry-leading lineup of material handling products, Toyota dealers are uniquely positioned to help solve wide-ranging challenges in warehousing and distribution. Built for every application, Toyota can provide the most complete set of solutions for material handling, automation, energy, advanced logistics, and warehouse optimization. For more information or to learn more, visit ToyotaForklift.com
MOORESTOWN, NJ (December 18, 2024) OPEX® Corporation, a global leader in Next Generation Automation providing solutions for document, mail, and warehouse automation, has been selected as a finalist in the 2024 NED (New Equipment Digest) Innovation Awards, which celebrates innovations in industrial technology, tools, and equipment that empower businesses to work faster, better, and more cost-effectively.
Introduced in March 2024, Sure Sort X with Xtract is a fully adaptable, turnkey offering designed to automate multiple manual tasks with a simple, one-touch solution.
The technology handles nearly 100% of customer-sortable items weighing up to 20 pounds and sorts items into a configurable array of mixed bin sizes and types, all while maintaining a consistent throughput of up to 2,100 items per hour.
“We are excited to once again receive this recognition, which honors our warehouse automation solutions that clients around the globe count on, as well as our culture of innovation,” said Alex Stevens, President, OPEX Warehouse Automation. “Sure Sort has long been a preferred warehouse automation solution for distribution centers and third-party logistics companies. Sure Sort X paired with Xtract has been developed to meet the evolving demands of the marketplace to deliver one integrated solution that automates the sort and order takeaway process.”
When Sure Sort X is paired with Xtract, totes are retrieved and their contents are transferred into shipping containers automatically, eliminating the need to manually sort and transfer boxes downstream. Xtract iBOTs can handle up to 200 extracted totes per hour.
The system can accommodate multiple market vertical workflows and greatly reduce the need for human interface. Installation can occur in as little as one week and return on investment can be realized within just two years.
For nearly five decades, OPEX has served as a trusted partner, collaborating closely with clients to develop customized, scalable solutions that transform how they conduct business.
About OPEX
OPEX Corporation is a global leader in Next Generation Automation, providing innovative, unique solutions for warehouse, document and mail automation. With headquarters in Moorestown, NJ, USA—and facilities in Pennsauken, NJ; Plano, TX; France; Germany; Switzerland; the United Kingdom; and Australia—OPEX has nearly 1,600 employees who are continuously reimagining and delivering customized, scalable technology solutions that solve the business challenges of today and in the future.
Richland Hills, Texas, September 12, 2024. AML, a U.S-based manufacturer of barcode data collection products, announces the launch of its latest Android® product, the StrikerX mobile computer.
“As more and more companies are moving away from legacy TELNET based applications, and towards APK and web-based applications, the power required to efficiently access and process graphical apps increases exponentially,” AML President Mike Kearby said. “StrikerX can handle the most demanding tasks with power to spare. Add in the fact that StrikerX is equipped with a Wi-Fi® 6E radio, and it becomes the clear choice for those looking for mobile computers they can keep deployed for years to come.”
StrikerX comes with a host of built-in software utilities for rapid deployment and maximum operator efficiency. The mobile device can be configured with an array of options including different barcode scanners, keypads, with or without a handle, and an optional camera. StrikerX can also be paired with a variety of charging accessories.
For more information on AML's new mobile computer, StrikerX, contact an AML representative at 800-648-4452 or visit our website at:
About AML. AML is a manufacturer of barcode-centric data collection products. For more than 40 years, AML has been providing American-Made data collection products to a variety of companies and industries, with an emphasis on value and performance.
For more information, contact Natalie Smith, Marketing Manager. nsmith@amltd.com
Hamilton Caster & Mfg. Co., a 117-year-old industry leader in heavy-duty industrial casters, proudly announces the enhancement of its legacy Super Endurance Caster (SEC) series, now rebranded as the Spinfinity® Super Endurance Caster (ZFSEC) series. In addition, Hamilton is introducing the all-new Spinfinity® Super Endurance Dual Caster (ZFSEC2) series, both of which feature a new heavy-duty 'V-Style' seal designed to elevate performance in the most demanding environments.
The Spinfinity® Super Endurance Caster (ZFSEC) series replaces Hamilton’s legacy SEC series, setting a new benchmark for kingpinless caster design in extra heavy-duty applications. Central to this upgrade is the heavy-duty 'V-Style' seal, which offers protection against dirt, debris, and moisture. This advanced sealing technology ensures consistent performance and extends the life of the caster, making it the ideal choice for environments where reliability is critical.
"With the introduction of the V-Style seal, the ZFSEC series is engineered to withstand the harshest conditions while providing zero-fix, 100% maintenance-free operation," said Mark Lippert, president of Hamilton Caster. "This enhancement allows our customers to minimize maintenance costs and downtime, further solidifying Hamilton’s reputation for durability and dependability."
The ZFSEC series retains the robust construction that Hamilton is known for, including a swivel top plate and inner raceway made from forged steel, providing superior strength for shock conditions. Sealed precision ball bearings are also now standard in all wheels, contributing to the maintenance-free performance of the series. Notably, the zerk fittings have been eliminated, as the new design makes them unnecessary.
Complementing the ZFSEC series, Hamilton introduces the all-new Spinfinity® Super Endurance Dual Wheel Caster (ZFSEC2) series. This dual wheel series is engineered for extra heavy-duty applications where stability, durability, and maintenance-free operation are paramount. Like its counterpart, the ZFSEC2 series leverages the new 'V-Style' seal, ensuring that each caster is fully protected against contaminants that could compromise performance.
Combined with sealed precision ball wheel bearings, this caster series ensures zero-fix, 100% maintenance-free performance. The dual-wheel configuration enhances stability and allows for a lower overall height, offering a perfect blend of strength and maneuverability.
Casters in both series are finished in a durable HAA polyester platinum powder coat and are available in a wide variety of wheel types, allowing for customization based on application needs. For complete wheel specs and product details check out the Spinfinity® Super Endurance Caster Landing Page and all-new Spinfinity® Super Endurance Dual Caster Landing Page.