It’s rare to get the chance to glimpse into the future. However my recent visit to Custom Cupboards afforded me that very opportunity.
The Wichita, KS-based plant was like none I’d been to before, where technology does indeed drive the operation. Fully automated utilizing RFID and bar code scanning throughout the entire manufacturing process, the company relies on connectivity software to link the entire shop management — inventory through assembly — allowing for full disclosure for management and employees alike. But what truly makes this cabinet manufacturer a trendsetter is the newly installed robotic cell for building face frames.
The robotic cell is currently being used with bar code scanning, although it has the capability to utilize RFID technology. The face-frame components are staged in a queue, then retrieved one at a time by the first robot. That robot scans the part and readies it for the glue application. The stile is then brought to the second robot, which places it in the correct position. When the last stile is in position, the first robot cleans the glue applicator in preparation for the next frame assembly.
Though geared for high production, there is flexibility throughout Custom Cupboards’ operation. The company offers 120 door styles in nine species and 600 colors — more than a half-million cabinet options. For a complete look at Custom Cupboards’ operations, read the Trendsetter article on page 20 in this month’s issue of Wood & Wood Products.
Gear Your Company for the Future: New Technology and Products at IWF
Even if your shop is not ready for total automation, your operation does need to operate at its maximum efficiency in order to succeed.
That means you need to be cognizant of the resources and tools available to reduce waste, improve your plant’s productivity and achieve higher profits.
One place to find the information you need is at IWF. Held Aug. 25-28 in Atlanta, this four-day woodworking fair offers you the opportunity to meet with machinery and supply experts, as well as network with others in your field, to learn the tips and techniques you need to succeed in today’s economy.
The staff of Woodworking Network (Wood & Wood Products, Custom Woodworking Business/CWB and CLOSETS magazines, media and Web sites) will be in force at IWF, Booth #2224. Hope to see your there.
The Wichita, KS-based plant was like none I’d been to before, where technology does indeed drive the operation. Fully automated utilizing RFID and bar code scanning throughout the entire manufacturing process, the company relies on connectivity software to link the entire shop management — inventory through assembly — allowing for full disclosure for management and employees alike. But what truly makes this cabinet manufacturer a trendsetter is the newly installed robotic cell for building face frames.
The robotic cell is currently being used with bar code scanning, although it has the capability to utilize RFID technology. The face-frame components are staged in a queue, then retrieved one at a time by the first robot. That robot scans the part and readies it for the glue application. The stile is then brought to the second robot, which places it in the correct position. When the last stile is in position, the first robot cleans the glue applicator in preparation for the next frame assembly.
Though geared for high production, there is flexibility throughout Custom Cupboards’ operation. The company offers 120 door styles in nine species and 600 colors — more than a half-million cabinet options. For a complete look at Custom Cupboards’ operations, read the Trendsetter article on page 20 in this month’s issue of Wood & Wood Products.
Gear Your Company for the Future: New Technology and Products at IWF
Even if your shop is not ready for total automation, your operation does need to operate at its maximum efficiency in order to succeed.
That means you need to be cognizant of the resources and tools available to reduce waste, improve your plant’s productivity and achieve higher profits.
One place to find the information you need is at IWF. Held Aug. 25-28 in Atlanta, this four-day woodworking fair offers you the opportunity to meet with machinery and supply experts, as well as network with others in your field, to learn the tips and techniques you need to succeed in today’s economy.
The staff of Woodworking Network (Wood & Wood Products, Custom Woodworking Business/CWB and CLOSETS magazines, media and Web sites) will be in force at IWF, Booth #2224. Hope to see your there.
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