The key role of robotics systems integrators in delivering manufacturing 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, Gloucestershire-based 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.
“It’s then a case of getting the ball rolling with designs and budgets. Once approved, we work alongside FANUC to provide the optimum machinery for that particular application.
Work with FANUC
With an extensive portfolio of robotics solutions, FANUC is a logical partner for ALS Mechatronic to work alongside. As Oliver Selby, Robotics Business Development Manager at FANUC UK explains, it is a working relationship that is built on a dedication to delivering the best results:
“Andrew and the team at ALS Mechatronic work closely with their customers, which makes it much easier to identify which product is best for the end-user. We’re always eager to ensure the most appropriate solution is provided, rather than simply specifying according to price. When you consider the significant impact that automation can have on a business, it is vital that you get it right, and this is something that both FANUC and ALS Mechatronic is committed to.”
Andrew continues: “The other key aspect to working with FANUC is the name itself. They’re one of the leading automation companies, and that helps to put customers’ minds at ease – especially if it is their first experience of automation. Ultimately, everyone benefits from this kind of thorough approach that delivers tangible results. It’s not just that one business that it positively impacts, but if we can help to change attitude to automation, then the manufacturing sector as a whole is stronger as a result.”
Queen’s Award for Enterprise
The latest chapter in the success story of ALS Mechatronic is the awarding of a prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise. Given in recognition of excellence in international trade, it is indicative of the role that the company has played in delivering automation solutions not just in the UK but worldwide.
Andrew comments: “We’ve witnessed fivefold growth over the past three years, notably in the US market. We’re absolutely delighted to have been given the Queen’s Award because its representative of the direction that we, and indeed I hope UK manufacturing as a whole, is headed. The latest technology is there to help businesses grow, and our job is to help them take advantage of that.”
Despite its international success, ALS Mechatronic remains a true British success story. With manufacturing and development set to remain in the UK, it highlights the appetite for high-quality British ‘solutioneering’ on the world stage.
Andrew concludes: “Following a period of time that has created untold damage to many companies, it is great to see the signs of recovery in our sector. We firmly believe that automation is key to a strong manufacturing industry, and by working alongside FANUC we are confident in being able to deliver the best solutions for our customers.”
