GE Acquires Concept Laser to Propel 3D Printing Technologies

GE, the world’s leading digital industrial company, executed on its agreement to acquire a 75% stake in Concept Laser of Germany. The agreement, announced in late October, allows for GE to take full ownership over the next several years.In addition, GE recently concluded its tender offer for the shares of Arcam AB of Sweden, first initiated in September, and purchased 76.15% of the company. GE now has controlling shares of two important producers of additive manufacturing machines and technology, and has committed significant investments to enhance the portfolios of both companies.Privately-held Concept Laser has more than 200 employees and is headquartered in Lichtenfels, Germany, with significant operations in the U.S. (Grapevine, Texas), China, and a global network of more than 35 distributors and agents. Concept Laser is a pioneer in the field of metal additive manufacturing. Concept Laser designs and manufacturers powder bed-based laser additive manufacturing machines. Its customer base is focused on the aerospace, medical and dental industries, with a meaningful presence in automotive and jewelry.

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Lean Manufacturing

Adcole Improves OptiShaft Product Line for Accuracy and Precision

Adcole LLC | October 13, 2023

Adcole LLC, a global leader in precision measurement solutions, has launched an enhanced version of its OptiShaft product line, featuring improvements in accuracy, repeatability, extended capacity, and faster results. The enhanced OptiShaft product line is available for purchase globally. Adcole's OptiShaft product line leverages advanced measurement algorithms and proprietary optical technology, resulting in exceptional accuracy and precision. Rigorous testing ensures enhanced repeatability, even in high-volume production settings. The machines now offer a 1.2-meter length capacity and faster scanning speeds. The user interface and software have been improved for a more efficient and intuitive experience. Enhanced data handling capabilities facilitate seamless integration with quality control systems and Industry 4.0 initiatives. This advancement addresses the evolving needs of industries such as automotive, aerospace, and precision shaft manufacturing, where precision measurement is critical. The improvements include: Exceptional Accuracy: Improved measurement algorithms and proprietary optical technology ensure unparalleled accuracy. Enhanced Repeatability: Rigorous testing and fine-tuning lead to consistent and dependable measurements. Extended Capacity: The machines now offer a remarkable 1.2-meter length capacity, enabling measurement of longer and more complex shafts and precision components. Enhanced Scanning Efficiency: Improved linear scanning speeds, quicker rotational scan measurements, and more efficient data processing Upgraded Software and User-Friendly Interface: Boasts a more intuitive user interface, streamlining measurement setup, operation, and analysis, and offering an expanded feature set for enhanced measurement capabilities. Streamlined Data Management: Equipped with advanced data handling capabilities, it ensures seamless integration with existing quality control systems and Industry 4.0 initiatives. The enhanced OptiShaft product line empowers customers to achieve higher levels of precision in their manufacturing processes. It provides improved accuracy, repeatability, and the ability to measure longer components, all of which contribute to increased productivity and cost savings. About Adcole LLC Adcole LLC, a prominent figure in precision measurement solutions, operates on a global scale, offering pioneering metrology systems and services to diverse industries across the world. Its storied history in the domain of shaft metrology spans over 50 years, testifying to its unwavering commitment to advancing measurement technology. Adcole's primary objective revolves around expanding the horizons of measurement technology to empower its clientele in attaining the utmost levels of quality and productivity.

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Manufacturing Technology

Advantive Expands Assembly Manufacturing Solutions Through Acquisition of Proplanner

PRWeb | September 27, 2023

Advantive, a mission-critical software provider for specialty manufacturing and distribution businesses, announced today its acquisition of Proplanner, a leader in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES). This acquisition further advances Advantive's commitment to driving innovation in the manufacturing and distribution lifecycle. As the only assembly-focused PLM system available in the market today, Proplanner is trusted by many leading names in aerospace, automotive, agriculture, and construction to help manage assembly line manufacturing, generate detailed work instructions, track the location of parts, and improve shop floor layout and efficiency. This acquisition adds expertise and elevates Advantive's capabilities across the assembly space while helping customers organize manufacturing data, prevent errors, and reduce costs. "Today marks a significant milestone for Advantive as we embrace the future of manufacturing technology," said Benoit de la Tour, CEO of Advantive. "With Proplanner's cutting-edge solutions and expertise, we are well-positioned to revolutionize the PLM space and bring unmatched value to our customers. This acquisition strengthens our resolve and brings Advantive to the forefront of innovation, and we look forward to the exciting journey ahead." The Proplanner Assembly PLM solution features three technology platforms designed to increase efficiency: Assembly Planner, Shop Floor MES, and Flow Planner. Embraced by customers in heavy manufacturing, Proplanner complements Advantive's existing suite of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), MES, and Statistical Process Control (SPC) software by adding elements of analysis, tracking, and optimization to human-enabled product assembly. With the addition of Proplanner, Advantive now covers every dimension of complex manufacturing processes – from planning and execution, to assembly, quality, warehousing, transportation, and more. "We are thrilled to become part of Advantive's vision for the future," said Dave Sly, Proplanner CEO. "By joining forces with Advantive, we are excited to bring a synergistic suite of manufacturing solutions and value-generating software to our customers. Together, we will set new industry standards for efficiency and productivity." About Advantive Advantive is a leading provider of mission-critical software for specialty manufacturing and distribution companies, offering purpose-built ERP, MES, and SPC software solutions that meet the unique needs of our customers. Serving over 5,000 customers and operating in 14 countries, Advantive's software solutions streamline complex processes, optimize operations visibility and throughput, and drive improved quality, profitability, and revenue growth. Deeply embedded into key end-to-end workflows, Advantive's software uses automation, seamless integration, and real-time data to streamline plant scheduling, order management, quality control, sales order forecasting and pricing, ecommerce, and delivery – making the complex, simple.

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Smart Factory

Draganfly Officially Launches its New Manufacturing and Production Facility in Saskatoon

GlobeNewswire | September 29, 2023

Draganfly Inc., award-winning, industry-leading drone solutions, and systems developer, is pleased to announce its new manufacturing and production facility in Saskatoon has officially opened and extend our gratitude to all our distinguished guests who celebrated this milestone with us. The Company is deeply honored that guests, including industry leaders, local officials, and valued partners, joined the ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the official launch of this state-of-the-art manufacturing and production facility. The Saskatoon facility promises to enhance manufacturing capabilities, streamline assembly processes, support R&D capabilities, and optimize integration procedures to establish a fresh approach to efficiency and innovation. This facility will focus on meeting the rising demand for Draganfly’s UAV systems and components, such as the Heavy Lift, Commander 3 XL, Commander XL Hybrid, and its new Precision Delivery System. “We are proud that Draganfly’s world-leading drone solutions are being built in Saskatoon,” Minister of Trade and Export Development Jeremy Harrison said. “This state-of-the-art technology shows what’s possible when you have innovative, forward-thinking ideas, and a competitive business environment that helps you achieve them. This investment will further build and protect this province’s economic future.” "Inaugurating the Saskatoon facility marks a pivotal moment for Draganfly as we embark on a journey of elevated manufacturing standards. This facility is not just a promise but a testament to our unwavering commitment to meet the demand for our UAV systems and components,” said Cameron Chell, Draganfly CEO. About Draganfly Draganfly Inc. is the creator of quality, cutting-edge drone solutions, software, and AI systems that revolutionize how organizations can do business and service their stakeholders. Recognized as being at the forefront of technology for over 24 years, Draganfly is an award-winning industry leader serving the public safety, agriculture, industrial inspections, security, mapping, and surveying markets. Draganfly is a company driven by passion, ingenuity, and the need to provide efficient solutions and first-class services to its customers around the world with the goal of saving time, money, and lives.

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Robotics and Automation

Shapeways Advances in Multi-Million-Dollar Auto Sector

Shapeways | September 25, 2023

Shapeways Holdings, a prominent player in the digital manufacturing industry, has announced substantial growth in its multi-million-dollar automotive sector, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) segment. The company's Enterprise Manufacturing Solutions division has secured a contract valued at over a quarter of a million dollars, reinforcing Shapeways' commitment to the EV and automotive industries. According to MarketsandMarkets Research, the electric vehicle market is projected to reach $951.9 billion by 2030, with significant growth in the commercial EV sector. The growth and expansion are taking place within the automotive and electric vehicle sectors on a global scale. Shapeways has secured a contract worth over $250,000, highlighting its continued expansion in the automotive and EV industries. It is focused on manufacturing high-performance parts for electric vehicles, aligning with the industry's shift toward sustainability. The company’s Enterprise Manufacturing Solutions division specializes in providing advanced manufacturing solutions to various industries, including automotive. The company's recent contract underscores its dedication to supporting sustainable transportation by manufacturing critical components for commercial, large-scale electric delivery vehicles. GM of Enterprise Manufacturing Solutions at Shapeways, Aidan O’Sullivan, remarked, “We share our clients' vision for the production of quality, high-performance parts, and this commitment becomes more visible in our growing portfolio within the EV sector.” [Source: GlobeNewswire] Shapeways is capitalizing on the growing demand for electric vehicles and aims to play a vital role in manufacturing essential components for this burgeoning market. The company's expertise in enterprise-level manufacturing and advanced technologies positions it as a key player in the automotive, medical, robotics, and other sectors. The electric vehicle market is experiencing rapid growth, and Shapeways is actively contributing to this industry by manufacturing critical parts for electric delivery vehicles. Sales Director, Automotive Vertical at Shapeways, John Tenbusch, remarked, “This new contract underscores our dedication to advancing sustainable transportation. Through partnerships with key industry leaders, we're ensuring, our technological capabilities translate to real-world impact." [Source: GlobeNewswire] About Shapeways Shapeways is a global leader in digital manufacturing, where it seamlessly merges additive and traditional technologies with proprietary software solutions tailored for manufacturers and their clientele. This strategic approach serves to reduce costs and enhance supply chain efficiency. Collaborating with a multitude of companies involved in industrial sectors such as automotive, medical, transportation, aerospace, and defense, Shapeways assists in expanding their operations tackling intricate product development challenges.

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