Page 33 - Taiwan Machinery 2023-08 Edition

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INDUSTRY TRENDS

abrading, grinding, etching, etc. This approach allows With the right configuration, these mechanical arms can
manufacturing operators to solve processing processes in perform precise tasks continuously, day and night. This not
one single operation, and minimize the need for frequent only reduces the time and manpower traditionally required
reinstallation and repositioning of workpieces. By keeping for quality control but also enhances safety and overall
the processing of workpieces in a continuous state and product quality.
enabling online measuring, this technique saves time in
setting up and replacing cutting tools. It also helps avoid Embracing Change
cumulative inaccuracies resulting from repeated positioning Before the pandemic, standardization and large-
transformations. As a result, processing efficiency is scale operations provided the industry with unparalleled
improved, production cycles are shortened, and overall convenience and significant opportunities for optimizing
productivity is enhanced. operating expenses. However, since the outbreak,
the traditional long supply chains have undergone a
Additionally, with the reduction in the number of required transformation, because of the increasing geopolitical
devices, fixtures, workshops, and maintenance expenses conflicts and the escalation of confrontations among
for processing, there will be a significant decrease in international powers. They have given way to shorter
investment related to manufacturing assets, operations, chains or a combination of shorter and more flexible chains.
and management. Furthermore, the integration of highly In this new landscape, the industry’s focus has shifted to
automated processes with customizable capabilities makes “resiliency” as a key guiding principle.
for the efficient production of high-mix, low-volume, or even
variable items and quantities. Consequently, in order to establish a resilient
manufacturing ecosystem, Taiwan’s machine tool
Automation: 24/7 Precision industry could leverage intellectualization, automation,
Lastly, regarding the trend of “automation,” Yueh and machinery composition technologies to address
explains that in response to the shortage of human the requirements of continuous operation, touchless
resources and the uncertainty of demand fluctuations in the deployment, and automated decision-making. Additionally,
post-COVID era, industry practitioners are actively adopting embracing decentralized manufacturing to adapt to
automated production systems. This approach can not only demands from regional markets is also recommended.
helps to alleviate the reliance on manual labor but also Last but not least, to align with global trends and achieve
caters to production requirements such as customization sustainable manufacturing practices, it is essential for
and variable items and quantities. industry stakeholders, government entities, and academic
institutions to collaborate and contribute their expertise.
As a result, the development of mechanical arms has
become mainstream in the industry. Practitioners can pre-
set the movements of these arms and utilize controllers to
convert them into designated planar or three-dimensional
movements as needed. The mechanical arms are also
capable of making real-time adjustments and responses.

Taiwan Machinery (September 2023)