How Automation Leads to Greater Productivity 

The benefits of automating an operation include increased production, reduced waste, and a better environment for employees. Positive results like these are among reasons why robotics orders in the first quarter of 2014 were the second highest ever in North America.

Surface Encounters of Macomb, Michigan produces granite kitchen countertops for remodeling and new home construction. In this next installment in the "Why I Automate" series, the company's CEO Chuck Russo and general manager Charlie Thiede explain the problems the company encountered using traditional production methods.

Fitting parts properly, accuracy in cutting, and the constant threat of equipment breakdowns were challenges cutting into profits and leading to frustration on the shop floor.

Robo sawjet operator Ryan Engelsman described how parts breaking down seemed like part of the job.

Automate dropped Surface Encounters' material usage by 20 percent and the company's use of systems like advanced laser measuring and Artistic-Vein Matching enabled it to better stand behind its quality guarantee to customers.

Mr. Russo said the use of robotics did not eliminate the need for people, but it allowed for more efficient production and led to an economic boost for Surface Encounters and its employees. 

Thanks to KUKA Robotics for sponsoring this Why I Automate video.