The mere mention of artificial intelligence (AI) often conjures one dystopian vision or another—perhaps the prime example of all is the HAL 9000 going spectacularly awry in the film 2001: A Space Odyssey. The prospect of the widespread adoption of AI is understandably alarming to people in a host of ways, but be that as it may, various forms of it are already a central part of how things are done—from finance to health care, from heavy machinery to retail—and the reason for this is simple: AI allows computers to do things people can’t unassisted, and by pairing algorithmic accuracy with automation, this helps save valuable time and resources. However, as AI and other control mechanisms affecting systems grow increasingly sophisticated, the human link to these processes becomes critical.

Liebherr Gear Technology will be displaying a variety of technologies at Booth #236914 (North Hall) during IMTS 2022. 

In the course of the mobility transition, electric and hybrid drives will gradually replace the traditional combustion engine. The battery is a key element in electrification: More and more manufacturers are starting their own production of battery systems and are looking for suitable solutions to do so. Liebherr has looked into the processes extensively and offers system-capable, modular concepts for the automated assembly of battery packs.

Star Cutter Company will be displaying its newest generation automated NXT 5-axis tool grinder in Booth #237013 at IMTS 2022 featuring detailed graphics that enable visitors to take a self-guided tour of the machine, which will be shadow grinding during the show. The display system will feature the 28 kW spindle option and four-station wheel change capability. It will be equipped with a robot loader and flat blade/insert clamping fixture for live demonstration of automated production. Videos to showcase tooling for form cutters, boring bars and medical hip rasps will also be on display.

 At IMTS 2022, United Grinding North America will be featuring the STUDER S131r cylindrical ID-radius grinding machine for I.D. grinding operations where maximum precision is paramount.

Index has announced the release of next generation of its G220 turn-mill center. Incorporating the design principles introduced via the larger G320, G420 and G520 machines, the new G220 provides high flexibility to produce complex, small-to-medium-sized parts in a single setup.

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division recently announced the winners of its first cohort of start-ups selected to help the manufacturing industry operate more sustainably and efficiently. The company launched its Sixth Sense open innovation platform in January 2022 to challenge how multinationals approach innovation and help nurture creative solutions to emerging manufacturing challenges by connecting with world-class companies to solve some of humanity’s biggest challenges. 

Collaborative robots can increase output and improve quality in nearly any production environment. UR cobots can be deployed quickly, with fast ROI, typically within 12 months. Universal Robots USA has released an e-book on how cobots can assist on the shop floor in the following areas: 

SMW Autoblok sets a new standard for power chucks with the introduction of the CC e-motion electric 4-jaw chuck featuring wireless power and signal transmission.