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Visitors to IMTS 2024 discover the latest digital technologies that enable quicker deployment, faster programming, integration and more efficient data utilization than ever before.
“Exhibitors have focused on reducing barriers to implementation, such as by integrating components, improving the operator experience, making digital tools more seamless to use, and offering technology in more bite-size chunks,” said Benjamin Moses, senior director of technology at AMT — The Association For Manufacturing Technology, which owns and produces IMTS.
IMTS 2024 runs from Sept. 9-14 at Chicago’s McCormick Place. In addition to more than 1,600 exhibitors, IMTS 2024 has expanded the opportunities to discover new digital manufacturing technologies throughout the show. These include the new Automation Sector, accelerated by SPS — Smart Production Solutions, the Additive Manufacturing Sector, accelerated by Formnext, attractions, the AMT Emerging Technology Center (ETC) (booth 236700) and the Smart Manufacturing Showcase (booth 236800), special events, the IMTS ELEVATE Job Shops workshop, and more than 100 conference sessions.
With so much to absorb, visitors may need a methodical approach to IMTS. Here are 12 ideas that can maximize the ability to find solutions and technology at IMTS.
1) Share challenges to find solutions
“IMTS 2024 surrounds you with literally thousands of people who want to help improve your business,” said Peter R. Eelman, chief experience officer, AMT, who has participated in every IMTS show since 1980. “The speed at which challenges are solved is directly proportional to knowing who can help you solve them. IMTS is known as the place that brings diverse manufacturing communities together to build relationships, share ideas, and solve problems. When you introduce yourself, talk about your challenges and goals, because this helps exhibitors help you.”
2) Focus the questions
“If you want to explore data analysis, ask what data you need to solve a problem,” Moses said. “In the same way, when creating a model-based engineering environment, start with a manageable project, such as a digital twin of your machining operation.”
3) Examine technology by application
“People always ask me about my favorite additive manufacturing technology or preferred system. I tell them there are no right or wrong answers,” said Thomas Feldhausen, staff member at the Manufacturing Demonstration Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
ORNL created a demonstration for AMT’s Emerging Technology Center (booth #236700) that combines metal additive, subtractive and other processes.
“The best technology depends on your applications, materials, and objectives. We help people find and develop the right technologies for their operation,” he said.
4) Explore how AI can automate routine tasks
“Tools powered by AI, machine learning, and applied experience automate routine tasks for estimating, quoting, and programming CNC jobs,” said Al Whatmough, CEO of Toolpath (booth #338248).
Toolpath, which integrates seamlessly with Autodesk Fusion (booth #133310), leverages powerful design for manufacturing and automated CAM analysis to provide users with realistic cost and machining estimates, including setup and tooling recommendations.
“When evaluating new machining work and RFQs, manufacturers have to answer three simple but important questions: ‘Can we machine this with our current tooling, how much will it cost, and should we take the job?’ Toolpath quickly and confidently answer these questions,” Whatmough said.
5) Embrace technology transformation
Whatmough uses the invention of the autopilot as an example.
“The autopilot automated the basic 'stick and rudder' tasks associated with flying a plane. Automation didn’t eliminate the pilot’s role; it transformed it,” he said. “By taking over the common tasks, the autopilot enabled pilots to focus on higher-order or higher-value tasks like navigating and avoiding weather patterns. Similarly, software, AI, and automation allow manufacturers to move beyond mundane tasks and focus on innovation and solving business challenges that result in increased productivity and efficiency.”
6) Expect the unexpected
After connecting with Hanwha Robotics (booth #236225) at IMTS 2022, Kenyeri Engineering and Manufacturing expanded their business model to represent the Hanwha cobot line. Kenyeri, which operates out of a 3,600-square-foot facility in Downers Grove, Illinois, is a provider of automation systems, control panels, work holding solutions and PC schematic software.
“From our perspective, we’re thrilled to see the Automation Sector expand at IMTS 2024,” said Tracy Hauppa-Kenyeri, CEO of Hanwha, who has attended IMTS since 2002.
7) Develop an automation plan
“The only way we can bring work back to the U.S. and bid more competitively is with automation,” Hauppa-Kenyeri said. “For midsize to smaller size companies, cobots and automation can have a profound effect on the production rate. Exhibitors at IMTS can help visitors understand the ease of implementation and the value of working with integrators that can provide a turnkey solution.”
8) Start simple, then scale up
“We encourage people to bring their problems to us at IMTS, but please do not use your most complex part to start your automating journey,” said Robby Komljenovic, operating board member at Acieta (booth #236419). “The right approach is to get a quick win, then make sure you have an automation team that moves that win forward. That way you’ll create a trust in automation.”
9) Think about creating a digital culture
“Finding technology at IMTS and issuing a purchase order are just small pieces of an automation or Industry 4.0 journey,” said Scott Harms, president of MetalQuest Unlimited, which operates highly automated and connected contract manufacturing facilities in Idaho and Nebraska. “To be successful with automation, you need to develop a culture and change the mindset throughout an organization.”
10) There is a methodology for approaching IMTS
“We develop a plan, assign individual roles and responsibilities for gathering information, then discuss and debate our findings over dinner,” Harms said, who has attended IMTS since 2000. “One of our core values is ‘the third idea.’ If I have an idea and you have an idea, we put those together and create a third idea that is the culmination of the two. Dynamic conversation enables us to commit to a strategy for technology acquisition.”
11) Look for AI everywhere
For example, machine learning can break big data into bite-sized chunks, suggest future outcomes, and detect part failures before they occur. Products such as OMNIedge THK America (booth #236207) provide users with data from linear motion guides, ball screws and rotary components so they can improve machine operating rates, make maintenance more efficient and reduce inventory management costs.
12) Register for IMTS 2024
“One of the comments I hear every show is, ‘We would have never learned about this solution if we didn’t come to IMTS,’” said AMT’s Eelman. “The digital technologies at IMTS range from foundational products to solutions that can transform your business operation.”
Research technologies on IMTS.com, use the Show Planner app to make your itinerary and take exhibitor notes, and reserve your hotel room using AMT’s Global Housing Solutions for the best booking experience and room and price guarantees.
About IMTS+
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