Page 6 - Summer 2024 EDM Today

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COVER STORY

AN EXPANDED APPROACH TO
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CUSTOMIZATION

AND AUTOMATION

The challenges faced by manufacturers today are unique. Equipment is often organized
into work cells designed to run specific parts. Among the challenges is a global shortage of

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skilled workers. Manufacturers are increasingly turning to automation to support autonomous
lights-out production.

In some cases, a stock
machine will work, but
often, a customized
machine tailored spe-

cifically to the situation
allows manufacturers
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to achieve a level of pro-

ductivity and profitability
that is not possible with
a standard machine.
Sodick Pr
omers
Team Presenting t
oduct Solutions
Sodick Product Solutions Team Presenting to Customers
Recognizing the benefit to customers, in 2022, Sodick created its Product

Solutions Group. This new group leverages Sodick’s engineering and
manufacturing capabilities to offer customized manufacturing platforms.
The level of customization can vary. It can be structural, such as a larger
work tank or increased open height. It can also be functional with the
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addition of external automation, such as additional axes, tool changers,
or even integration with a rail-driven robot.
To better understand the full capabilities of the Product Solutions Group,
EDM Today sat down with Marius Onica, the program manager. Marius
explained the process undertaken to develop a custom solution. He noted
that the Product Solutions Group was created in response to customer
demand. Today, many customers come to Sodick with the goal of produc-

ing a specific part or family of parts. The process begins with a meeting
Marius Onica
Marius Onica
where the customer explains exactly what is required to the Product
Product Solutions Manager
Solutions Group. The discussion often includes technical details, such
as a review of a 3D model, required surface finish, accuracy requirements, and production rates. The

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discussion can also include goals relating to limiting factors, such as available floor space.
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