I didn't post Wednesday partly because it was a long day. Got up at 4 am to catch a flight to Greenville - Spartanburg airport in South Carolina. Spent the afternoon at the US offices of SEW Eurodrive followed by a delightful dinner at Justin's in Greer. I doubt that any of you just happen to find yourself in Greer, but if you do, I recommend Justin's. It's one of those little local places with an excellent chef.
But the real purpose of the trip was to learn more about SEW. I've talked with them at a couple of trade shows, but it comes to the automation market from a direction different from the way I came. SEW is originally a gear/motor company. In its history it has developed some original and interesting gear technology. The company has added electronics for drives and motion control over the years, and now there is an interesting application of inducing voltage through the air for an application its engineers have developed for an automated trolley line taking parts through a paint line. Sounds as if that new product is taking off with a lot of interest from some major automotive companies (don't know that I can quote the names, so I won't here).
A few European, especially German or Austrian, companies have figured out the formula for success in North America. Many have struggled, since it takes a different sales and marketing strategy for the US from Germany. The managers at SEW appear to have figured it out and are showing nice growth numbers. Five years ago, you may not have seen the company prominently displayed on motion control roundups. Now you will--or should at any rate.
7:13:40 AM 
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