Make it better: installation of advanced manufacturing systems allows ECU to dramatically increase capacity, flexibility in controls offerings

摘要

There is little doubt that the automating of manufacturing and assembly processes have been among the greatest contributors to efficiency and productivity in industry today. And it's safe to say most companies have embraced it in one form or another. And then there are companies like Engineering Concepts Unlimited (ECU). The Fishers, Ind.-based manufacturer of engine controls, speed switches, voltage detectors and other components and modules primarily for stationary engine systems, has used computer-controlled manufacturing equipment since the mid-1970s. For more than a decade, it has operated a highly automated assembly process- much of the manufacturing and assembly equipment is of its own design-with the ultimate goal to successfully maintain a virtually hands-free factory. Recently, the company took another big step in that direction. To address the challenges of manufacturing its new, most sophisticated electronic systems for engine control, monitoring and remote communications, the company has installed an advanced manufacturing line, one that has increased its manufacturing capacity by approximately 500 percent, while enhancing design flexibility and quality.