What sets the new Fastems FPS apart from other pallet handling solutions are its modular 360-degree design, integration capability with over 90 machine brands, and state-of-art production planning capabilities. To meet the needs for even the tightest shop floor, FPS’ modular design allows machine tools, pallet storage units, and operator loading stations to be placed flexibly on all four sides of the system. With maximum height of only 3.1-3.8 meters (10.2 to 12.5 feet), FPS is a perfect fit for low-ceiling facilities also.

To meet the unique production needs of high-mix or low-volume manufacturers, the pallet storage modules are configurable and use the vertical space efficiently. From four to twelve pallets can be accommodated every 2 meters (79 inches) depending on the load heights – and the top shelf accommodates higher loads if needed. In addition, the system ends can be also used for storing pallets. All the shelving units have an in-built coolant collection system to keep the produced parts and surrounding areas clean.

The control system of FPS is Fastems’ Manufacturing Management Software (MMS) that is designed specifically for high-mix manufacturing needs. It is a tool for everyone working in production or managing it, giving a real-time view of production activities. Most importantly, it identifies exactly what needs to be done next to ensure timely deliveries and maximum spindle utilization. Not only does the system consider the pallets that need to be loaded in the machine tools next, but it also checks and ensures that all the other machining resources are there in time – NC programs, cutting tools, and raw materials. When a rush job is received or anything sudden happens, MMS automatically adjusts the production plan.

“More and more companies are investing in five-axis machining and mill-turn technologies, requiring automation systems to be able to handle more complex parts and reach the machine differently,” said Nathan Turner, President, Fastems LLC. “These same manufacturers, however, also need to be able to introduce new workpieces fast during high-mix production processes. The Flexible Pallet System is designed specifically for these types of operations, building upon our Flexible Pallet Tower technology but for multiple CNCs. Because it’s modular, the FPS can integrate with a wide variety of milling machines, making the automation investment more accessible especially for machines not equipped with automatic pallet changers (APCs). We’re delighted to be able to help manufacturers optimize their machining capabilities for maximum profit.”

The first systems will be delivered to the customers during the spring of 2024. More information about the modular solution can be found at fastems.com/fps.

About Fastems

Fastems delivers intelligent factory automation solutions around cutting machine tools and related processes. We are a family-owned business with over 40 years of experience and 5,000 installations. Our mission is to help metalworking manufacturers improve their productivity and profitability. Our application fields are pallet and robotic automation – always equipped with our industry-leading production planning and execution software. We also have solutions for automating the production and resource planning of stand-alone machine tools. We support our systems with a wide range of services.

See our other Case Study:
Advancing Medical Manufacturing: LD Systems and Custom Surgical Kits

Delving deep into the world of automobile advancements, Industrial Machinery Digest is ecstatic to spotlight yet another groundbreaking project helmed by LD Systems. This time, our journey takes us to the realm of automotive parts, specifically for a name synonymous with reliability and precision: American Honda.

The Challenge

American Honda’s expansive inventory of 110,000 SKUs posed a significant logistics challenge: how to manage such a vast collection efficiently. The challenge wasn’t just about finding a solution but about finding one that was scalable and innovative.

LD Systems’ Approach

LD Systems’ ApproachUpon deep discussions and evaluations, LD Systems proposed an effective solution: A Parts Picking Mezzanine Conveyor integrated with advanced sortation systems.

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Key aspects of this system included:

• Layout and Design: A focus on streamlining workflows, reducing manual tasks, and optimizing space.
• AutoCAD Drawings: Detailed graphical representations ensured accurate integration and setup.
• Equipment: Selected specifically for automotive parts, emphasizing longevity and operational efficiency.
• Installation: Ensuring a seamless setup where all components interact efficiently.
• Project Management: Providing oversight from start to finish, prioritizing timely execution and quality.

A Closer Look at the Infrastructure

The storage and conveyor systems included:

• Storage Solutions:
  • Mezzanine: Multi-tiered structure to make the best use of available space.
  • Steel Shelving & Pallet Rack: Durable storage options for a range of parts.
  • Specialized Pallet Rack: Tailored for specific parts that needed particular storage solutions.
• Conveyor Systems:
  • Belts: Designed for consistent and reliable movement.
  • Line Shaft Transport: Ensures swift and safe transportation of parts.
  • Accumulation: Designed to prevent any hold-ups and maintain a steady flow.
  • Sortation: Advanced mechanisms to ensure accurate delivery of parts.

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Conclusion

The solution provided to American Honda by LD Systems serves as a significant example of innovative logistics in the automotive sector. Navigating an inventory of 110,000 SKUs was challenging, but LD Systems delivered commendable solutions to address the challenge effectively.

Stay tuned to Industrial Machinery Digest for more updates on the latest advancements in the industrial sector.

LD Systems is proud to be a women-owned business!

Our goal is to treat every customer, vendor, employee and anyone else with whom we may interact as we would want to be treated. To find out more about our services and a representation of some of the projects we have successfully completed, please explore our website. Please contact us to talk about any opportunities you may have, or ideas you would like to discuss. LD Systems is proud to be a women-owned business!

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Additional Resources

• Industrial Storage Solutions & Benefits
• Project Management Services
• Facility Layout and Design
• Auto CAD

See our other Case Study:
Elevating Automotive Excellence: A Pioneering Parts Picking System for American Honda

Industrial Machinery Digest highlights LD Systems’ innovative approach in medical manufacturing, focusing on the development of a state-of-the-art facility for Custom Surgical Kits.

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Introduction to Custom Surgical Kits

Medical procedures demand precision, and this is what ROi, an innovative medical device manufacturer, aimed to address with personalized surgical kits. These kits, designed for individual surgeons, contain every disposable item required for specific procedures. Initially introduced for the Mercy Hospital Group, the demand surged, indicating the need for expanded facilities and more refined operations.

However, a detailed 150-page consulting report couldn’t provide ROi with practical solutions. It was comprehensive but lacked actionable steps.

LD Systems Steps In

LD Systems came on board to offer actionable and cost-effective solutions. They began by analyzing the existing manual operations, studying processes, final products, and collecting data from various operations. The outcome was a sophisticated distribution center linked to a high-tech manufacturing clean room. Given the critical nature of the kits, ensuring accuracy in every pack was crucial.

Key Features

The modern distribution center included:

• A reserve rack for frequently demanded items.
• A multi-level pick module for accurate unit picking.
• A sorter ensuring precise item channeling.

The clean room had nine assembly lines, each producing a unique surgical kit. Before production, a cart with all needed items was prepped, ensuring each kit was complete. Rigorous quality checks were in place, with kits undergoing thorough verification before sterilization and dispatch.

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Technical Overview

For those keen on technical specifics, LD Systems provided:

• Thorough Operations Review.
• Efficient Layout and Design.
• Detailed AutoCAD Drawings.
• Cutting-edge Equipment Installation.
• Comprehensive Project Management.

The facility spanned 108,000 sq. ft., contained over 2500 raw materials, flexible line configurations, and an array of equipment from push-back racks to advanced conveyors and packaging systems.

Storage Types

• 3-Story Raw Material
• Pick Module
• Pallet Rack
• Push-Back Rack
• Carton Flow
• Pallet Flow
• Shelving

Conveyor System

• Motor-Driven Roller
• Multi-Direction Diverts
• Sortation
• Print & Apply Labeling
• QC by Weight
• Shelving

Clean Room

• 9 Assembly Lines
• Dynamic Line Configuration
• QC By-Weight Verification
• Integrated Packaging

Conclusion

The collaboration between ROi’s innovative vision and LD Systems’ technical expertise has set new benchmarks in medical manufacturing, emphasizing both efficiency and surgical precision.

Keep up with Industrial Machinery Digest for more updates from the industrial sector.

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For More Information

For more in-depth insights or inquiries about the advancements in medical manufacturing, the experts at LD Systems are always available to assist. Reach out via their website at www.ldslc.com or by using the contact form provided here. For direct consultations or site surveys, you can CLICK HERE.

Address: 1500 Beville Road, Suite 606-221, Daytona Beach, FL 32114-5644

The solution? We designed and built the ASRS to enhance any robot’s productivity, run a higher mix of parts, and ultimately recoup a greater return on investment.

Collaborative technology for more production power and Cobot Productivity

The ASRS assists most cobots and other robotic applications by providing a continuous arsenal of machinable parts over a much longer time frame. It does this by consistently loading and unloading dunnage trays onto the robot accessible work area, eliminating the need to manually replace each one. The resulting boost in cobot production (Cobot Productivity) is 10- to 20-times that of standard means.

The ASRS from Applied Cobotics features a vertical lead screw-driven shelf, and a horizontal tray loader/unloader. In addition, tray rack towers engineered for the ASRS offer open-spaced shelving that accommodate various part sizes up to 18-inches in height. The rack towers are also capable of holding up to 17 trays. Customized dunnage parts trays can be acquired either through our 3D printing and thermoforming capabilities. For DIY customers, purchase one of our 3D Platform or BCN3D printers and create your own custom trays!

The ASRS works by assisting a robot in longer parts runs. Without the ASRS, a robot will stop running as soon as it finishes that one tray of parts. With the ASRS in place, the robot system is capable of unmanned, continuous production. As the cobot finishes each set of parts on the tray, the tray loader slides the finished parts tray to its predetermined position, and then pulls the next one onto the shelf. Once the tray is pulled into position, the cobot is alerted and automatically resumes its project tasks. Depending on the parts, a project can operate unaided overnight, making each one a potential lights-out automation run. Built-in motor encoders provide highly accurate motion, maintaining the tight tolerances that cobots require.

All together, these features provide reliable and safe load-handling for any part type or size. The ASRS can easily be implemented to automate most CNC lathes, Mills, and many other types of robotic-aided manufacturing for long-running, unattended operation.

ASRS is offered as a package deal with an attached cobot, or as a single component.

Flexibility in Automation

As customers begin to request more custom components, shorter part runs, and cheaper costs, there is an increasing demand for flexibility on the shop floor. The Automated Storage and Retrieval System from Applied Cobotics, in tandem with many types of robots, provides project managers and operators that flexibility. While Applied Cobotics offers the ASRS and cobot as a package deal, the ASRS can be purchased on its own, providing an essential asset to existing automation systems. It offers its own adaptive features such as:

• Compatibility with any cobot/robot with I/O ports
• Compatibility with any cobot-suited application
• Multiple parts programming options within one job run
• Production of an entire cart of trays in conjunction with robots
• Pallet jack accessible design for portability
• Mobile tray rack that can be moved from station-to-station and locks easily into place

Easy to Use and Install

The ASRS from Applied Cobotics is easy to use, and does not require any extensive programming knowledge. For CNC milling machines, our experience has proven that the time investment is less than one day to fully implement the ASRS/cobot package. Other ease-of-use features include:

• HMI touch screen display for easy control
• Software Interface that can be programmed in a few simple steps
• Removable cart for station-to-station mobility
• Optional camera and monitor screen allows operators convenient production viewing

Additionally, the safety characteristics of cobots have been applied to the automated material lift system. If a human worker or any object gets too close to the ASRS, a floor sensor will alert the ASRS to pause its motion until the area is clear again. Use any of the links below to find out how Applied Cobotics is making automation easy for SMEs.

The rack provides four supply levels with plastic shelving on each level. The size of the rack allows parts to be located on the shelves with or without containers and is open on both sides providing for all-around good visibility. The levels allow high-performance parts between waist and chest high for easy accessibility, while fewer performance parts are stored on the lower levels.

Each of the rack’s levels can be repositioned or the whole shelf rack customized with only simple tools. Vertical presentation face so levels can easily be moved up/down with only simple tools. Position changes require only a hex wrench.

The rack’s dimensions are 75 3/4″ W x 36″ D and 79″ T and are designed to hold up to 400 lb. per level. The rack features four heavy-duty feet threaded for floor leveling capability.

Custom rack sizes and configurations are possible with Creform.

The biggest benefit is the complete dimensional and capacity flexibility. Custom sizes allow the floor space to be optimized for the necessary amount of inventory needed at the point of assembly.

The rack’s design creates straightforward visual management of inventory and also optimizes the space required in the workplace. The plastic work surface provides space to sort, count, or sub-assemble spare parts.

As with all Creform racks, higher capacity and custom cart sizes and configurations are possible with the Creform system of 28 mm and 42 mm plastic coated steel pipes and metal joints. They can be configured for ESD (anti-static) applications. The component nature of Creform racks provides added value and ensures that if there is any damage or worn components replacement parts are readily available.

Accessories include hooks, labeling options, as well as writing surfaces with clipboards to name a few. Creform racks are available as a kit, assembled structure, or in component form for a complete DIY solution. Long life, because the adaptability of the rack, remains a fundamental principle of Creform.

The Creform System is used to create an array of material handling and efficiency-enhancing devi,ces and is a proven component in continuous improvement and lean manufacturing programs. The company partners with customers in developing and enhancing these programs.

Quick-Drain Vented Tote

Flexcon held a press conference on Wednesday, March 30 at its Booth to demonstrate this breakthrough technology. Flexcon’s Justin Beckerman, the project’s lead engineer and co-author of the patents, was on hand to answer questions.

Flexcon helps make carousels, ASRS, VLMs and virtually any form of automation, storage and production system better by providing the ideal containers, dividers, pallets and bulk boxes to protect the end users’ products throughout their supply chains. They work closely with their clients to help optimize their operations by focusing on space efficiency, functionality, aesthetics and cost. Flexcon has been supplying these solutions for over 50 years and is proud to have over 70% of the Fortune 500 Companies as clients.

About Flexcon

Flexcon Container, Inc. is a leading American manufacturer and provider of totes and containers for manufacturing, distribution and warehousing applications. Flexcon provides industrial material handling containers, divider systems, totes, bulk boxes, bins, trays and plastic pallets for ASRS systems, VLM / vertical lift modules, carousels, conveyors, shelving & almost any need. In business for over 50 years, Flexcon’s materials include corrugated plastic, molded plastic and fabricated totes bins & trays. Styles include: stackable, nestable, automated storage trays, cases, dollies, bakery trays, Industrial totes, postal totes, attached lid containers, ALC, conductive, ESD bins, insulated shippers, molded hopper bins, warehouse bins, collapsible bins, recycle containers, VLM dividers, miniload totes, fiberglass containers, produce. food, beverage, agricultural, poultry, totes, vented bins, RSC, mailers, pallet sleeves, dunnage, placards, label holders and much more.

This new 8L Lathe is a small machine with big capabilities, and has the ability to fill turning needs in a variety of spaces. Rigid enough to cut anything, whether it’s plastic, stainless steel even titanium, this machine can handle it, and at an approachable price point.  Starting at $6,595 for the basic machine with tailstock and fully-assembled enclosure, an 8L Lathe Deluxe Package with numerous features including a robust machine stand with integral coolant tank, separate chip drawer for easy removal, storage drawers and optional side shelving, as well as PathPilot controller, tool holder/tool kit, monitor, keyboard, mouse,  and more is available for only $8,875. And the fully-loaded 8L build comes in under $10K.

“We are excited to introduce this new lathe to the market,” said Cory Bailey, Tormach’s Product Engineer.  “Tormach was founded on the idea of bringing cost-effective and capable CNC equipment to market and this one provides users with everything needed to face, turn, bore, groove and thread. We know of no other machine that offers such advanced software and capabilities at such an affordable price.”

The 8L lathe features a 5C spindle that accommodates parts up to 1” diameter, which meets the needs of most lathe users. For larger pieces up to 8” in diameter, users can simply add a 3- or 4-jaw chuck to cut the stock.

Like all Tormach CNC machines, the 8L lathe will be controlled by the PathPilot software system. That means users can use intuitive conversational lathe programming, do rigid tapping, and leverage built-in Dropbox support for transferring programs. PathPilot and PathPilot HUB has been known to be incredibly powerful for both beginner CNCers, as well as veteran machinists and educators.

Specifications

The new 8L is unique, not just among other Tormach machines, but also in the general machine tool market, because it offers a 1.5 HP (1.11 kW) spindle that runs at 180-5000 RPM. It already comes with the machine in a fully assembled enclosure as part of the base model, but the footprint remains small (26in. x 50 in.), and the lathe itself is attached to a hand-scraped 140-pound cast base. Like all Tormach machine tools, the 8L runs on standard single-phase household power (115 Vac, 50/60 Hz, and a 15 A breaker).

With a 5C spindle, the 8L can accommodate parts up to 1 in. or use a 3- or 4-jaw chuck, providing a swing of up to 8”. And, the stepper motors on the X and Z axes provide a feed rate of 150 IPM (3.8 m/min).

Travels on the 8L are impressive for its compact size.  The maximum workpiece length is 10” with the tailstock. The X-axis travel is 4.5”, so users can accommodate a part that fully utilizes the 8” swing.

It’s configured for Industry Standard OXA Quick Change Tool Post. Instead of the operator needing two wrenches that turn hardware in opposite directions, the machine itself can lock down the tool holder.  By allowing ‘one hand tool changing’, this takes a typically inconvenient task and not only makes it easier, but also greatly reduces the time required to change the tooling. 

About Tormach

Located in Waunakee, Wisconsin USA, Tormach Inc. is dedicated to providing exceptionally engineered products, technical support, and customer service at the lowest possible cost.  Our focus is to help our customers realize goals in CNC by providing tools and resources to help transform concepts into real products.

Whether you are involved in research and development, education, short run production, or simply an entrepreneur with an idea, Tormach small CNC products will allow you to make what you need easier, quicker, and more affordably. 

Section 179 is the business tax deduction that allows a company to expense/write-off eligible equipment purchases in full. Instead of depreciating equipment a little bit each year, using Section 179 allows the entire purchase price to be deducted the year it was purchased and put into service.

This year, the deduction is $1,040,000. That means a company can purchase slightly more than a million dollars’ worth of equipment and deduct the entire amount from their taxable income. For 2020, this can be a saving grace for manufacturers and B2B companies.

The great news is, almost all tangible business and office equipment qualifies, as do most business vehicles. Used/refurbished equipment qualifies as well. As long as the eligible equipment is purchased and put into service between January 1, 2020 and midnight December 31, 2020, the Section 179 deduction can be used.

To give a quick example of how much can be saved, suppose a company spent $100,000 on equipment. Under Section 179, they can deduct the entire $100,000 from their taxable income. Assuming a 35 percent tax rate, this will save the company $35,000 in taxes. Yes, you read that right – by buying $100k worth of eligible equipment, a company will pay $35k less in taxes this year.

Section 179 and COVID-19

COVID-19 and pandemic-related shutdowns have affected the operations of many businesses, but Section 179 remains the same. In fact, much of the equipment a company may have purchased to help modify their operations during the pandemic is likely eligible for the deduction.

Plexiglass screens, sanitizing stations, air purifiers, and similar are all Section 179 eligible. As are servers and laptops for increased work at home, and almost all common “non-custom” software is eligible as well. That is just scratching the surface; as stated earlier, almost all equipment a business needs to operate will qualify.

In addition, Section 179 is not affected by any other government program or assistance a company may have received. For example, if your company received a PPP loan during the pandemic, you are still welcome to use Section 179. That is very good news.

Another piece of good news is Section 179 can be used even if you financed or leased the equipment. For example, if you purchased equipment in October and financed it, you can still take the full purchase price as a Section 179 deduction. This means you will almost certainly save more in taxes than you made in payments, which can be very helpful to a company’s balance sheet.

A Quick 2020 Section 179 Recap

Let’s recap Section 179’s limits and other information.

2020 Deduction Limit: $1,040,000

Total Equipment Purchased Cap:
$2,590,000. Once equipment purchases exceed this, the deduction is reduced on a dollar for dollar basis. This makes Section 179 a true small and medium business tax deduction.

Eligible Dates:
Equipment must be purchased and put into service between 1/1/2020 and midnight 12/31/2020.

Eligible Equipment:
Most tangible business equipment and production machinery, office equipment and furniture, computers and common software, vehicles more than 6,000 pounds. GVW, heavy equipment, safety equipment, signage, shelving, and more. Ask your accountant for details.

Does Used Equipment Qualify?:
Yes. As long as the eligible used equipment is new to the company purchasing/deducting it, it will qualify.

Does Financed or Leased Equipment Qualify?:
Yes. Section 179 is unaffected by how a company pays for the equipment – the full purchase price can be deducted, regardless of financed or leased status.

How Do You Elect to Take the Section 179 Deduction?:
Simple – you use IRS form 4562, available at the IRS website (or your accountant).

Section 179 has long been a favorite of manufacturers and B2B companies. In 2020, it matters more than ever. If you purchased any eligible equipment in 2020, make sure you take your Section 179 deduction, or make sure your accountant knows what you have purchased. It can make a big difference in your year-end profitability.

How Much Can You Save?

If you are interested in seeing how much you can save, section179.org has a great section 179 calculator at www.section179.org

The standard, designated as ANSI MH31.1-2019, is intended to create a standardized methodology to evaluate the strength and durability of steel mesh containment panels used in material handling applications. It was drafted by ProGMA’s Wire Partition Engineering committee led by personnel from member companies Folding Guard®, SpaceGuard Products, Inc., and Troax, Inc., with support from the broader ProGMA membership.

Vertically mounted steel mesh containment panels are often used in pallet rack and vertical storage system applications to contain and minimize the potential for falling items, protecting personnel, product and property. ProGMA members identified the need to educate people who use pallet rack, shelving and other types of high destiny storage handling equipment such as ASRS systems, regarding the importance of integrating a quality steel mesh containment panel system to secure, guard and product these areas of their operation.

A specific concern that the standard helps to address is the deflection in the panels that can occur when they are struck by an object. The deflection can protrude into a flue or an aisle where maintaining proper clearance dimensions are important. This information can be used in a risk assessment when incorporating safety considerations into the design of the facility.

This document helps to standardize:

• Industry terms and definitions
• Design and structural requirements for the product
• Testing methodology to quantify product impact deflection in a risk assessment
• Test procedure and fixtures to perform said product test
• Interpret product test results to aid user community in determining if this is a
  product to be used for one’s application

ProGMA members believe that this standard release is a great first step in educating the user community about the importance and value of integrating this protective guarding solution into their storage operation. It raises the bar for better product to serve America in a fast-growing material handling and logistic industry.

About ProGMA

ProGMA was founded in 2012 to help manufacturers who provide material handling protective guarding solutions which secure, guard and protect inventory, facilities and people a way to educate the industry about their solutions and how they may be applied to enhance their operations, improve security and protect workers in a busy fast pass work environment. ProGMA’s member companies manufacture a variety of safety products used in material handling operations, including wire partitions, mesh netting, bollards, guard rails, bumper guards, column protectors, and the like.