What’s new in machinery, equipment, and software? Everything! Are you keeping up with the changes? Check out the Software & Technology  track sessions to learn the latest on CNC, robotics, digital technologies, automation, and more! Read on for more details:


 

Are you looking to purchase a bigger machine? Hear from shop owners about their experiences and how you can prepare to make the next step. They will discuss selection, negotiation, financing, moving, set-up, processes, compressed air, power, dust collection, tooling, the learning curve and all of the surprises that come with integrating a big machine into your shop. Register for “Taking the Leap to a Bigger Machine: What You Need to Know Before You Invest” (Wednesday, July 17 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.)

 

 

James Swanson has received recognition as the “Best Speaker” at the AWFS Fair for multiple years, don’t miss his SMART session on “Optimization of Manufacturing through Nested CNC” (Thursday, July 18 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.). James will demonstrate how to maximize material yield through optimization of your nested CNC processing. Attendees will receive expanded knowledge of how nesting can save material, increase production efficiency and how to make the most out of this technique.

 

 

Are you looking to create connectivity throughout your machinery and process and improve data collection? The true value of smart, connected machines lies in the ability to capture data around performance, status, usage, vibration, and energy consumption, which opens up endless possibilities to improve customer outcomes. Attend the SMART session“Why Digital Technologies are the Big Opportunity for the Wodworking Industry” (Thursday, July 18 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.) to learn about these new technologies and how to integrate them.

 

Are you constantly fighting to keep and/or find employees? Adaptation through automation is the solution which will allow you to keep producing at your current rate or even higher. In the SMART session “Labor Shortage Got You Down? Automation Is the Solution!” (Thursday, July 18 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.), learn how automation is available in all shapes and forms, making it available for all shop sizes!

 

 

Looking for a CNC machining center for solid-wood processing? What is the importance of different features and what kind of solutions are better suited for different production needs? In the SMART session “Processing Solid Wood Components on CNC” (Thursday, July 18 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.), you will also learn techniques to maximize efficiency and productivity.

 

 

 

Ready to incorporate robotics into your operation? The SMART session “Robotic Applications for Wood Products Manufacturers” (Friday, July 19, 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.) will discuss the applications and installation of various robots and specifically look at Industrial, Collaborative, and Mobile Robots. Applications include machine tending, parts handling, gluing, assembly and part movement and transport. We will also review examples and analysis of both hard and soft automation for panel processing.

 

 

What new technologies are woodworking businesses utilizing to improve productivity, quality. reliability, customer experience, and impact the bottom line? What can Industry 4.0, digitization, IoT, robotics, and other technology trends do for your business? This panel of industry pros, including a robotics expert, a furniture maker, and an architectural millwork manufacturer, will discuss pros and cons of various technologies and share practical suggestions on how to implement digital solutions for existing woodworking processes. “New Technology for Woodworking Businesses” (Friday, July 19, 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.).

 

 

Are you looking to get more out of your CNC router? In “Boundary-Pushing with Your Nested-Base Router” (Friday, July 19 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.), two small shop owners will share how they are using their machines, ways to simplify routine processes, and tactics to make additional revenue. If you have a nested CNC, attend this session and learn how to push your machine to be more effective, and ultimately more profitable.

 

 

Learn more about these sessions and register today!