Featured Image

AMT Tech Report: Issue #314

Jul 12, 2024

“If purchasing isn't owning, piracy isn't theft.”

– Anonymous and probably on the run.


1. Back to the Grind

Let’s face it: Not everybody can stack dimes, not even AI-powered robots (at least not yet, but we’re missing the point). So what do you do if your welds suck, but they are serviceable? Grind ‘em down! Kane Robotics, founded by CEO John Spruce in 2019, introduced material removal cobots equipped with AI-guided vision systems. These cobots can grind, polish, and sand, making them suitable for repetitive tasks, freeing workers for more complex jobs.

Read more here.


2. Composites Era

Traditionally, labor-intensive manufacturing made composites expensive and limited their applications. However, new automated techniques are making them cheaper and more accessible. Companies like Arris, 9T Labs, and Orbital Composites are pioneering these processes, enabling broader use in items like running shoes, bicycles, and military equipment. Also, Porsche was experimenting with hemp fiber in lew of carbon pre-pandemic… But they do say the stuff can make you lazy!

Read more here.


3. It's Not Just for Children

Kinda like Lego bricks but also more than a toy, Tinkercad is a beginner-friendly, web-based CAD tool ideal for all levels due to its ease of use and gentle learning curve – and it’s fun to fidget and play with! Released in 2011 and acquired by Autodesk in 2013, Tinkercad supports 3D design, circuitry, and codeblocks, making it versatile for various projects. Its intuitive interface, extensive library of shapes, and cloud-based accessibility make it convenient for collaboration and 3D printing.

Read more here.


4. Additive McDonald's

AM and McDonald's are perfect for each other! They’re both not the real deal, processed to high heaven, and dagnabbit, America loves them! OK, unlike McDonald’s, that was too spicy. Sorry! Go figure: McDonald’s, in its search for a translucent circular luminaire with an embossed, velvet-like effect, has turned to 3D printing and a partnership with Philips for a sustainable and efficient solution to creating this unique lighting fixture for its restaurants globally.

Read more here.


5. Computational Gastronomy

Don’t know what to make for dinner tonight? Math and science are here to help. Computational gastronomy is an emerging field that applies data science to culinary arts, aiming to understand and innovate food systems by analyzing recipes for taste, nutrition, health, and sustainability. This approach transforms the art of cooking into a systematic, rule-based methodology, potentially enabling AI to generate novel, nutritious recipes with minimal environmental impact.

Read more here.

To get the latest tech developments delivered directly to your inbox, subscribe to the weekly Tech Report here.

To access Tech Trends, log in to or register for an MTInsight account at https://www.mtinsight.org/ 

PicturePicture
Author
Stephen LaMarca
Senior Technology Analyst
Recent technology News
Technology utilization and its benefits for achieving operational improvements.
Find cutting-edge innovations and network, Nov. 4-6, 2025, in Dallas, Texas — the new home of the Manufacturing Technology Series SOUTHWEST.
Robots keep marching. Dreamliner's secret sauce. Hitachi builds its own AI foundry. When 'overbuying' pays off. Grinding errors down to size.
Mazak builds their 40,00th machine. Robots do heavy lifting; humans keep it real. United is serious about going supersonic. Arizona's silicon gold rush. Two floors - no framing needed.
Human innovation at scale. GE is reshoring your refrigerator for $3B. But will they play Pokemon go up there? The sound of qubits. The center for digital twins wants you!
Similar News
undefined
Intelligence
By AMT | Feb 18, 2026

Record-setting manufacturing technology orders; Harry Moser receives the Al Moore leadership award; Recapping AMT's Winter Economic Forum; and more.

6 min
undefined
Intelligence
By Bill Herman | Feb 18, 2026

Designed exclusively for executives, The MFG Meeting delivers strategic insights, meaningful peer engagement, and the presentation of the 2026 Albert W. Moore Leadership Award to Harry Moser, a champion of U.S. manufacturing.

5 min
undefined
Smartforce
By Catherine “Cat” Ross | Feb 17, 2026

Lyndex-Nikken launches a new website. America Makes and NCDMM announce $8 million in funding. Upcoming events from C.R. Onsrud, Mazak, MIT, and the ARM Institute. Leadership news at Haitian Precision USA, Limble, and OGP; Nidec's new tech center, and more.

5 min