MECT 2023 – Focus on Concept Zone, how to enhance the processing technology

MECHATRONICS TECHNOLOGY JAPAN (MECT), one of the largest machine tool trade shows in Japan held every two years in Nagoya City, has a special program by the organizer (Concept Zone). Each year, the Concept Zone introduces advanced machining technologies or skillful use of machine tools with machining demonstrations based on a theme. This year’s theme is “Machining Extraordinaire”. Three companies pursuing advanced machining technologies, each presenting the state of the art in a different area, provide visitors with machining tips. (*Pictures are from MECT2021) 

Reasons to go back to origin 

For example, the last six Concept Zone themes have been the hot topics of the season at the time: “Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics (CFRP)” in 2011, “Medical” in 2013, “Magnesium Alloys” in 2015, “Space” in 2017, “Industrial Robots” in 2019, and “Automation” in 2021. The theme of this year’s Concept Zone is “Machining Extraordinaire”. It is a “back-to-origin” theme that takes us back to the basics of providing information on machining technologies that benefit the manufacturing industry. 

There is a reason for this “back to origin” theme: in the 21st century alone, there have been major events that have shaken the global economy, such as the global financial crisis of 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020. More recently, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has also threatened the stability of the world. And global environmental awareness has reached a different level in recent years, with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and carbon neutrality. In other words, even a cursory look back reveals radical changes in the social environment. 

This has also affected the state of manufacturing and the entire industrial sector. This includes the electrification of automobiles, as evidenced by the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs); transportation equipment such as aircraft, for which demand continues to grow; semiconductors, which are thriving in the face of advanced information technology; and electrical and precision equipment, which supports various types of progressively more complex devices. These changes naturally force changes in manufacturing and processing technologies. 

Under these circumstances, many manufacturers, especially small- and medium-sized ones, are struggling with the direction of their own business. How can they improve and change their own processing technology? 

This question should be a major concern for today’s manufacturers. And that is why this year’s Concept Zone is returning to its roots. 

The Concept Zone offers visitors a glimpse of state-of-the-art processing, along with processing demonstrations and inspiration for processing and technology development. The manufacturing tips are right there. 

Dual focus on machining technology and equipment 

A view of the Concept Zone at the MECT2021

The three companies playing a leading role in this year’s Concept Zone are all in the contract processing business, and each is a distinctive company with a clear strategy for its business. SEISANZAI Japan would like to introduce some of the “extraordinary techniques” demonstrated by the three companies in the following articles. Visitors are cordially invited to come to the exhibition to see these outstanding technologies. 

At the same time, the equipment used to support the processing technologies are also worthy of note. In the Concept Zone, you can get a clear picture of what kind of equipment is used and what it is needed for. The tools that can realize the processing ideas found in the Concept Zone can be found in the exhibition hall of MECT2023. 

It may sound a bit insistent, but it is important to repeat: the tips for your machining are in the Concept Zone at MECT. We hope you will come and see for yourself. 

SEISANZAI Japan editorial team