Matthew Garcia with Kawasaki Robotics
Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Matthew Garcia, Regional Sales Manager with with Kawasaki Robotics about “AI and Vision guided robots”.
Matthew Garcia, Regional Sales Manager at Kawasaki Robotics, discussed the company’s history and innovations at MD&M West. Kawasaki, a $15 billion company with roots in shipbuilding, introduced the first hydraulic robot in the late 60s. They now offer robots from 3 kg to 1500 kg, catering to various industries like food and beverage, automotive, and aerospace. Garcia emphasized Kawasaki’s focus on partner support and personalized attention. He highlighted recent advancements in AI and vision-guided robots. Despite tariffs, Kawasaki’s Japanese manufacturing and shipping line help maintain competitiveness. Garcia provided his contact information for further inquiries.
Alfonso Aramburo – Master of Ops
Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Alfonso Aramburo, Master of Ops about “Strategies for manufacturing optimization”.
The conversation revolves around the Industrial Talk podcast, sponsored by MD&M West and News and Brews, highlighting innovations in the manufacturing industry. Scott Mackenzie interviews Alfonso Aramburo, a manufacturing expert with 17 years of experience, about his role as a “Master of Ops.” Alfonso discusses common challenges in manufacturing, such as operational readiness for business development projects and the importance of process mapping to streamline operations. He emphasizes the need for companies to address inefficiencies and improve workforce development. Alfonso also mentions his book on cultural change and the reluctance of employees to adopt new processes. Contact information for Alfonso is provided for further insights.
John Derzy and Michael Lipcsik with Hirata
Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to John Derzy and Michael Lipcsik with Hirata Corporation about “Manufacturing efficiency solutions”.
The conversation features Scott Mackenzie from the Industrial Talk podcast, discussing the MD&M West event with John Derzy and Michael Lipcsik from Hirata. John celebrates his 50th year in the industry and highlights Hirata’s 50-year history, starting with handcarts and evolving into a company specializing in automation and robotic solutions. Michael shares his background in manufacturing and automated testing. They discuss Hirata’s diverse clientele, including automotive, electronics, and medical devices, and their focus on long-term customer relationships. Hirata’s expertise in automation and predictive maintenance is emphasized, along with their integration of robots and systems for efficient manufacturing.
Marian Schneider with Planar Motor
Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Marian Schneider, Applications Engineer at Planar Motor about “Innovative, Smart conveying systems”.
Marian Schneider, a mechanical engineer from Germany now living in Vancouver, discussed the innovative technology of Planar Motors at the MD&M West conference. Planar Motors uses magnetic levitation for motion, offering six degrees of freedom, including rotation, tipping, and tilting. The technology, which has been around for 10 years, is modular, flexible, and programmable, making it suitable for various assembly and packaging lines. Schneider highlighted the system’s scalability, with applications ranging from small payloads to large systems with up to 1000 units. The technology is maintenance-free, relying on solid-state electronics and permanent magnets.
Adrienne Zepeda with MD&M West and Informa Markets
Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Adrienne Zepeda, VP, Growth Portfolio Lead at Informa Markets about “Manufacturing, a community built on connections”.
The conversation highlights the success and impact of the MD&M West event, organized by Informa. Adrienne Zepeda, Vice President at Informa, discusses the event’s significance, noting over 12,000 attendees and the extensive planning involved, starting two to four weeks post-event. Adrienne emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement, leveraging feedback from exhibitors and attendees, and planning events up to two years in advance. Despite challenges, such as COVID-19, the event maintained its schedule, showcasing innovative technologies and fostering human connections. Adrienne’s role involves overseeing six events, including MD&M West, and ensuring the success of each event through meticulous planning and collaboration.
