CONTROL & AUTOMATION ALS MECHATRONIC
FANUC
The key role of systems integrators in delivering automation
Tasked with bridging the gap between manufacturer and end-user , systems integrators are playing a crucial role in the delivery of automation systems . ALS Mechatronic is one such integrator , a specialist in bespoke factory automation and robotics systems for a number of the UK ’ s key industries , including pharmaceutical and FMCG .
Here , we take a look at how ALS Mechatronic works alongside FANUC to help its customers improve production processes .
“ There ’ s a term we use to describe what we do – ‘ solutioneers ’, Andrew Steward , Managing Director at ALS Mechatronic explains . “ That ’ s because we ’ re a team of engineers at heart , which means we have an understanding of how production processes work , and in particular automation .
“ But where we really add value is by providing solutions to problems , and helping manufacturers to figure out what they actually need to improve their workflow . It ’ s our job to be experts not just in automation , but all of the industries that our customers operate in .”
Systems integrators play a critical role in helping businesses to overcome any apprehension and misunderstanding they may have surrounding automation . They serve as a key connection between manufacturers of automation solutions and end-users . Through its close working relationship with FANUC , Gloucestershirebased ALS Mechatronic has helped to boost productivity in factories across the UK and beyond .
Andrew continues : “ We primarily work in the packaging industry , with a number of customers in dairy , pharmaceutical , and household wares . A lot of what we do is dealing with bottles , from container handling and inspection through to when they get packaged up and sent off to be filled . It can be anything from house cleaning products through to pill bottle packaging , and it is heartening to see such a diverse range of customers looking to implement automation .”
FINDING THE RIGHT SOLUTION
2020 was a challenging year for a number of industries , as social distancing measures put a strain on factory processes . One of the defining features of the manufacturing sector ’ s response has been a greater acceptance of the potential benefits of automation , particularly in facilitating a growth in productivity . With more businesses than ever before open to the idea , ALS Mechatronic witnessed an increase in people reaching out for expert advice .
Andrew explains : “ Typically , we ’ ll get approached by a customer with a fairly open-ended question , such as ‘ what is the best way to get my product to its final destination ’? We then set to work on providing an answer , which means visiting the site and identifying the problems . From that point we can outline a solution – whether that ’ s a conveyor system or other machinery that will pick and place the product – and ultimately help them to understand if automation / robotics is right for them .
50 PECM Issue 53