Factory automation is nothing new – it’s been around since the early days of manufacturing. However, custom automation is a relatively new field that is growing in popularity. So, what is custom automation, and why should you care?
Let’s start with what standard factory automation can do well. If you need help with the following:
-Simple material handling
-Palletizing
-Case opening, Case Erecting, Case Sealing
-Labeling, Coding and Marking
-Shrink wrapping
or any other very standardized process, then there are great out-of-the-box solutions available.
Custom Automation: Integrating Multiple Processes
But what if you need to do something a little more complicated, or you need to integrate multiple processes? That’s where custom automation comes in.
Custom automation is the process of designing and building custom machinery or systems to automate specific tasks.
This can be anything from a simple conveyor belt to a complex system that integrates multiple processes.
The benefits of custom automation are many. For one, it allows you to automate tasks that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to automate with standard factory automation solutions. It also gives you much more control over your production process, as you can design the system specifically for your needs. Finally, it can often be cheaper in the long run than buying several different factory automation solutions and trying to get them to work together.
You know the traditional pay now, or pay more later
Custom Automation: Solving “Standard” Problems
One of the most common reasons to turn to custom automation is when standard factory automation solutions just don’t cut it. Maybe you need to automate a process that is too complicated for off-the-shelf solutions, or maybe you need to integrate multiple processes and factory automation solutions just won’t do it. In either case, custom automation can provide a solution.
So, if you’re looking for a way to automate a complex process or you need to integrate multiple factory automation solutions, custom automation may be the answer. It’s important to work with an experienced team of engineers who can design and build a system that meets your specific needs.
Custom Automation: Creating Flexibility
Have multiple sizes or different products you need to run on the same production line? Each new size or product will likely require slight modifications. The goal for a custom automated line is to create the variability you need, without timely (expensive) change overs.
Contrasting this with standard factory automation, you are often stuck with the original design and functionality.
Custom Automation: More Efficient and Less Waste
Another advantage of custom automation is that it can be designed specifically for your process, which leads to greater efficiency and less waste. By integrating multiple processes into one system, you can eliminate unnecessary steps and streamline your production process. This can lead to significant savings in both time and money.
If you’re considering custom automation for your manufacturing process, it’s important to work with an experienced team of engineers who can design and build a system that meets your specific needs. With the right team in place, custom automation can provide many benefits over standard factory automation solutions. Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you.