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Smart manufacturing systems: The COVID-19 comeback

The impact of COVID-19 has changed the way we conduct business and illuminates more than ever the need for manufacturers to assess their processes and implement smart manufacturing technology. The challenges that manufacturers face daily have been only exacerbated by the pandemic. Adding value to machinery to allow unattended operations and improve productivity without relying on operators to perform every function is even more imperative in today’s climate.

Presenting an automated coolant delivery system

Precision Tool Technologies Inc., Brainerd, Minnesota, developed the FullShop automated coolant delivery system to eliminate manually monitoring and replenishing coolant so that the shop could enable unattended machining. This video, presented as a video supplement to CTE's May 2020 Productive Times article, offers a quick overview of the company's FullShop system, which monitors coolant usage at a machine tool sump and automatically replenishes coolant before it runs low.

Tolomatic Inc. develops open-source, low-cost ventilator actuation prototypes for COVID-19 patients

In an effort to support the global need for medical ventilators, Minnesota-based Tolomatic Inc. has dedicated a team of engineers to the development of highly efficient emergency ventilator concept systems using electric linear actuators. The proposed technologies are the first step in creating innovative emergency ventilators for patients around the world.