The Moment: Preparing to Open Up

This simple 28-second video shows a robotic arm at work. Yet there is so much more to the story, especially with all the talk about getting ready to open up in June of 2020.

The industrial sector is stirring and businesses are readying to open up. This trend is evidenced by the news this week that the 11-year slump in manufacturing may have begun a transition in May. A promising sign amid the heartbreaking unemployment numbers.

This particular robot is going through its Factory Acceptance Test (“FAT”) onsite at a client’s facility.

This client, like many others, are responding to the unprecedented circumstances of our times to make bold moves.  Making strides to be smarter, leaner, and greener.

Coronavirus or not, Industry 4.0 is here.

The Story

This system – designed, implemented, and controlled by SilMan – is currently undergoing FAT trials.  And believe it or not, the process is happening at our client’s plant.

Commonly, a facility engineer would travel to the manufacturer to observe FAT.

At SilMan, we view this stage of a project as a prime opportunity for the client and their team to engage with the new equipment.

This practice brings the end-users into direct contact with the solution much earlier in the process and offers an opportunity for hands-on exploration.

Typically, the client’s operations team would see the equipment for the first time when it is being installed. These early steps support “buy-in” from the team and set clear expectations about the future.

And, of course, in a time when travel is not allowed by many companies, onsite FAT moves the project forward and saves the client travel expenses.

Open up with a Future Focus

FAT is always an exciting stage of a project. Especially when the newly installed automation includes a Fanuc M20iD/25 with 3D vision in the end-of-arm tool!

With imaginative planning and reliable partners to help chart the course, every investment dollar has the potential of moving us closer to Industry 4.0 solutions. Whether your hurdles are infrastructure or production, there are innumerable smart solutions that can set the stage for a smarter, more profitable future.

For companies like this one, the challenges of the current climate have incited innovation. And in this moment, it is powerful to see their courage to imagine and execute a future-focused strategy, and not simply to play defense.

It’s an inspiration to all of us.

SilMan Industries is a proud partner of Fanuc America