FEATURE

By Karen Parker, editor-in-chief, ASI

Engineers and manufacturing executives will see the latest innovation in manufacturing technology at the ASSEMBLY Show 2024.

Professionals in the manufacturing industry will gather this year at the ASSEMBLY Show 2024, which is taking place October 22–24 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. The annual event features the most recent products and equipment in assembly. It will give visitors the chance to connect with potential business partners and learn about the latest process improvement techniques to streamline operations.

Educational Opportunities

Conference programming on Tuesday, October 22, offers three separate tracks. Track 1 will cover advancements in automation and automated assembly. Among the topics featured in Track 1 are the shift to harmonized assembly operation, moving from proof-of-principle to pilot production to full-scale automation, responding to customer demand by deploying a cobot, and efficiency and quality with robotic automation. Track 2 will cover data analysis, AI, and topics around the C-suite. Featured sessions in Track 2 include: smart data and smart manufacturing; using time-series data to solve manufacturing issues, leveraging quality data for enhanced process integration, AI and computer vision for quality control and SOP monitoring, automating the assembly of electrical cabinets, and ecommerce in manufacturing. The theme for Track 3 is Bolted Joint and Threaded Fastener Assembly. Presentations in this track include: Work Instructions That Work — Cleaning Up Procedures for Ease of Use; Five Ways to Error-proof Assembly Operations Leveraging Digital Technology; Hot to Maximize Assembly Efficiency with AI, Geolocation and Light Automation; How to Implement an Effective Torque Measurement and Calibration Program; and Bolted Joints, Often Looser Than Expected.

The keynote address for this year’s Assembly Show will be given by Jairek Robbins, a best-selling author, performance coach, and speaker. Robbins’ address, "Crafting the Future: Leadership and Legacy in the Manufacturing Industry," will give leaders the tools needed to inspire and transform their workplaces, creating a hub of innovation and collaboration. Attendees will learn strategies to attract and maintain the next generation of talent, learn the tools to help employees increase their skills and performance, and hear about leadership techniques that will motivate and inspire employees.

Exhibits

The exhibit floor will feature hundreds of companies highlighting products from many parts of the assembly process. Learning Theater Presentations on Wednesday and Thursday give exhibiting companies an opportunity to cover topics and demonstrate expertise on the latest assembly technology. These presentations are conveniently located on the exhibit hall floor. Additionally, guided tours of the assembly floor will be conducted by editors of ASSEMBLY Magazine. Offered Wednesday morning and afternoon and Thursday morning, the tours give participants a chance to see key exhibits and discuss different products and solutions at each stop.

Networking Opportunities

The Assembly Show offers several opportunities for attendees to meet with colleagues and clients in a casual atmosphere. The annual Welcome Reception & Taste of Rosemont will kick off the event on Tuesday evening. Taking place in the exhibit hall, this staple of the show allows attendees to sample local fare and receive a sneak peek at the exhibits, tools, and displays. Additional networking events include a Pub Night Networking Reception on Wednesday evening and the Morning Mingle & Breakfast on Thursday morning.