Manufacturing Hub Network

The journey begins with the formulation—the cornerstone of co-manufacturing success. Brand owners must ensure they have a scalable formulation ready for production, laying the foundation for fruitful collaborations with manufacturers. With the formulation in hand, the next step entails reaching out to potential manufacturing partners, initiating the dialogue that sets the stage for collaboration. Central to the co-manufacturing process is the pilot batch phase, where manufacturers conduct small-scale runs to validate the formulation's compatibility with their equipment. While some manufacturers may require upfront payment for pilot batches, others offer flexible payment arrangements tied to subsequent purchase orders, allowing brand owners to mitigate upfront costs. Upon successful validation of the pilot batch, brand owners transition to full-scale production, marking the beginning of a contractual relationship with the manufacturing partner. Contract negotiations are crucial at this stage, with brand owners advised to enter into master service agreements that outline key terms and protections for both parties. Within these agreements, provisions for volume commitments and volume rebates offer incentives for brand owners to scale their production volumes, unlocking potential cost savings and driving profitability. However, meticulous attention to detail is essential, with contractual discussions encompassing lead times, quality assurances, and defect resolution protocols. As brand owners navigate the complexities of co-manufacturing, strategic contract negotiations ensure mutual alignment and safeguard against potential pitfalls. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and collaborative partnerships, brand owners can maximize the value of co-manufacturing relationships and propel their brands to new heights of success. Join us for this illuminating discussion as we demystify the co-manufacturing process and empower brand owners with the knowledge and tools needed to forge successful partnerships in today's competitive marketplace. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or embarking on your first co-manufacturing venture, this guide promises to be your roadmap to success in the dynamic world of co-manufacturing.

Nate provides insights into professional growth and development in quality management. He emphasizes the importance of certifications, mentorship, and audit experiences in shaping a successful career. Nate's narrative offers actionable insights for aspiring professionals seeking to thrive in the field, highlighting the need for adaptability and proactive engagement. Join the conversation to discover strategies for career advancement in quality management. #QualityEducation #CareerDevelopment #LearningJourney

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are revolutionizing the landscape of industrial automation with their ability to navigate and perform tasks independently. These robots come in various forms, but the ones I primarily focus on are equipped with wheels for mobility. One notable example is the Theron, a compact AMR similar in size to a mirror with a payload capacity of up to 250 kg. It features a unique elevator unit that can raise the robot off its wheels, allowing it to transport loads effortlessly. This capability is particularly useful in environments where moving heavy loads is a common task, such as warehouses or manufacturing facilities. Another intriguing feature of some AMRs is their omnidirectional wheels, such as mecanum or Swedish wheels. These wheels enable the robot to move in any direction with remarkable agility, including diagonal movements and tight turns. I had the opportunity to witness a Theron navigate through a narrow hallway with only inches to spare on either side, showcasing its impressive maneuverability. Additionally, there's the Vogey, a larger AMR capable of carrying significant payloads and equipped with a manipulator arm. While I haven't personally observed its deployments, the potential applications are vast, ranging from material handling tasks to complex assembly processes. Overall, AMRs offer a versatile and efficient solution for automating various tasks in industrial settings. Their autonomy, mobility, and adaptability make them invaluable assets for improving productivity, safety, and efficiency across diverse industries. As technology continues to evolve, I anticipate even more innovative applications and advancements in the field of autonomous mobile robotics.

Matt Paulissen sheds light on the importance of designing software that adapts to change with flexibility and resilience at the core. #manufacturing #MHpodcast #industrialautomation #efficientengineering #software

In his presentation, Pawel discusses key trends and challenges in the robotics industry. With the demand for automation on the rise, driven by the quest for faster and more efficient processes, the industry is experiencing significant growth. According to recent data, robotic sales are projected to increase steadily as consumers seek enhanced efficiency in their operations. One of the main challenges highlighted by Pawel is the lead time for acquiring robotic components. This can result in delays in automation projects, pushing some to opt for ready-made solutions to avoid setbacks. In light of this, it is crucial to consider cost implications when deciding on automation strategies. Pawel also points out a concerning trend in the merging of skills for robot programmers and PLC programmers. In the U.S., individuals often cover both areas, which can lead to time constraints and difficulties in mastering multiple domains. While versatility is valuable, it may not always speed up processes; instead, it could lead to cost reductions. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the application phase when implementing robots. Factors such as remote access options and recovery solutions play a crucial role in ensuring successful integration. Additionally, tool integration is key, as a robot's effectiveness is determined by the tools it utilizes. Pawel categorizes programmers into drivers, programmers, and experts based on their skill sets, highlighting the need for diverse expertise in the field. #RoboticsIndustryTrends #AutomationChallenges #SkillsConvergence Join the conversation on the future of robotics and automation in the industry! Let's stay ahead of the curve together.

MH 115.1 - Accelerating IT OT Convergence with Virtual PLCs w/ Bernd Bergner One year ago, we introduced Simatic AX as the initial step in IT-OT convergence at Engineering. Today, we are proud to announce the launch of the Web PLC, a virtual PLC that primarily focuses on the runtime aspect. This further facilitates the convergence of IT and OT, bringing the OT PLC into the world of edge computing. Consequently, we now have IT-OT convergence on both the engineer and runtime sides, ensuring seamless integration without disregarding the existing infrastructure. The virtual PLC can be programmed using its existing photo, but it also offers the flexibility to be extended with the software. As mentioned earlier, we will gradually implement these changes, ensuring each component fits harmoniously with the others. This progression represents the next crucial step in immersing ourselves in the world of IT and further embracing its possibilities. By doing so, we aim to create a more open and adaptable environment. Within our open industrial edge ecosystem, the Web PLCs thrive and operate. This ecosystem enables easy integration with various applications, allowing them to work closely with the Web PLC and communicate seamlessly. The simplicity of this process arises from the fact that, with a hardware PLC, you only need an additional device—an EP Simatic IPC—for Edge Connection. This consolidation into a single device not only streamlines operations but also enhances openness. Embracing openness is a crucial aspect that guides our future direction. I firmly believe it is the path we should pursue, fostering a more open and collaborative approach. This commitment will allow us to harness the full potential of IT advancements. Thank you for acknowledging and embracing this vision of openness. Together, we can shape a future that brings greater efficiency and value to our customers and businesses. Siemens #IT #OT #Automation

Josef Waltl from Software Defined Automation discusses that factors that are driving the embrace of change in industrial automation. Catch the full episode with Josef Waltl here: https://lnkd.in/ecYgQ2gA #manufacturing #MHpodcast #industrialautomation #efficientengineering

Festo is building some seriously impressive trainers 🔥 Ted Rozier from Festo Didactic - North America introduces one of their cutting-edge trainers designed to educate the future generation of automation professionals. We delved into its functionality, the comprehensive training programs it offers, as well as its intentional engineering aimed at encompassing everything from fundamental skills to safety protocols. #manufacturing #MHpodcast #industrialautomation #controls #careers #training #education

From my vantage point, the landscape of municipal operations seems to be undergoing significant changes. It's interesting to ponder whether we'll observe a shift towards more municipalities consolidating their resources or if they'll retain their independence. Given the patterns I've observed, consolidation seems to be on the horizon. Currently, it's evident that while many of the larger municipalities are still robust and holding their ground, the smaller entities are grappling with challenges. The stringent regulations and the implications of their discharges into the environment are becoming more burdensome. The effects of past practices, like the "solution to pollution is dilution" mantra from the 70s, are becoming clearer. With the increasing awareness of the environmental impact of untreated discharges, especially in significant watersheds like the Chesapeake Bay, regulations are understandably becoming more strict. It’s worth noting the phenomena of combined sewer overflows (CSOs) which, though more prevalent in the East, have been a significant environmental concern. As we've expanded our understanding of ecosystems, it's become clear that even minor overflows can have catastrophic effects on local environments. On the ground level, there are many small entities, like the school I'm currently working with, struggling to keep up with these standards. Their wastewater treatment plant, for instance, is in dire need of refurbishment. Thankfully, advancements in technology are providing more cost-effective solutions. On this project, I've been fortunate to work with Opto 22 Epic and leverage MQTT. Hosting their SCADA in the cloud, we're integrating newer technology, ensuring they meet the necessary standards without breaking the bank. So, to sum it up, I foresee two primary paths for municipalities in the future. Those that adapt and embrace the technological solutions available will likely continue to thrive. In contrast, those unable or unwilling to adapt might find consolidation as the most feasible path forward. The evolution of municipal operations will undoubtedly be shaped by the delicate balance between technological adoption and environmental responsibility. This clip was taken from Manufacturing Hub Episode 120 - https://lnkd.in/e7-bvjzf With guest - Jason Hamlin #manufacturing #automation #utilities #industry40 #digitaltransformation

It's clear from your experiences that establishing robust, consistent standards for the design and execution of projects is absolutely crucial for systems integrators and their clients. Some systems integrators do an excellent job of establishing a catalogue of standard designs, procedures, and demos. This not only helps the customer to understand what they'll receive, but it also promotes consistency and quality throughout the project. However, as you pointed out, not all clients or systems integrators have these standards in place. This can lead to an inconsistent look and feel throughout a project, resulting in confusion and potential inefficiencies. These inconsistencies can become especially evident when it comes to graphical interfaces, with elements like fonts, colors, and scales varying between different sections of a project. In order to overcome these issues, it's vital that standards documents are created and adhered to. These should outline key aspects of a project, such as the desired look of graphical interfaces and the symbols to be used. Creating a robust standard in this way ensures that everyone involved in a project is working from the same blueprint, reducing the chance of inconsistencies and making the design and build process much smoother. Moreover, the process of developing these standards also provides an excellent opportunity for stakeholders to discuss and define what is important to them, helping to shape the project to best meet their needs. In doing so, systems integrators can deliver a more valuable, satisfying service to their clients. The hope for the future is that systems integrators will put an even greater emphasis on architecture and standards in their work, recognizing the vital role these elements play in the success of their projects. By adopting this approach, systems integrators can ensure they deliver consistent, high-quality results, while their clients benefit from a more streamlined, efficient, and effective project. #manufacturing #automation #data #industry40 #digitaltransformation