David Trombley, MBA

This article provides an interesting angle to how discussions within teams can be enhanced. Maybe it’s time to unlearn and relook at how we conduct meetings, to rethink what we thought was The way to conduct meetings.

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BEL-AIR MACHINING CO. has a dedicated DFM division and offers full access to our clients and business partners. The rapid development of new technologies, combined with the increasing complexity of parts and the pressure to bring them to market quickly, has expedited the adoption of DFM (Design for Manufacturing) in advanced manufacturing facilities worldwide. DFM has not only helped to address complexity in manufacturing engineering but has also resulted in savings in machining time and reduced prototyping costs. The Space Exploration and the AAM industries are the two driving forces behind this evolution in the industry. "We Fly Higher" picture shown: NT 4250 - 9 Axis

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The Precision Craftsmanship of Alpine Aviation: Laying in the Harness Posted By Terry Cedar on April 23, 2024 Welcome back to the Alpine Aviation blog, where we embark on a captivating exploration of aircraft electrical harness manufacturing. In our previous post, "Electrifying the Skies," we introduced the intricate blend of art and science that defines our craft. Today, we delve deeper into the heart of our work: the laying in process. This meticulous stage exemplifies the precision craftsmanship synonymous with Alpine Aviation's pursuit of excellence. Laying in the harness mirrors orchestrating a symphony, where each wire and component harmonize to power and safeguard an aircraft during flight. This process transcends mere organization; it entails a profound understanding of the intricate electrical pathways that underpin aviation systems. Before a wire is placed, our team meticulously scrutinizes engineering blueprints, ensuring every detail aligns with the aircraft's specific needs. Material selection is paramount, with aerospace-grade wires and durable sleeving chosen to withstand extreme conditions and ensure longevity. With blueprint in hand and materials chosen, our technicians embark on the artful assembly of the harness. Precision guides every step, minimizing stress, chafing, and maximizing performance. Special attention is paid to flexibility, allowing the harness to adapt to the aircraft's movements seamlessly. Securing the future of aviation, wires are meticulously fastened using various techniques, guaranteeing durability and ease of maintenance. Rigorous testing ensues, surpassing industry standards to ensure each harness's functionality and reliability. The laying in process is not merely about assembling wires; it's a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence. As we push the boundaries of materials, technology, and manufacturing techniques, our dedication to enhancing aircraft safety and performance remains steadfast. Alpine Aviation's journey through the intricate world of harness manufacturing continues, fueled by our unwavering commitment to precision, quality, and innovation. Join us as we pave the way for safer and more efficient skies.

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The next disruption in aerospace is electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) and it's here! Read Gia Hayes’ most recent @TTI MarketEYE article to learn how this new means of travel will shake up the industry. https://bit.ly/3XpNoGI #TTIinc 

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With so much rapid development underway, there’s a growing need for high-fidelity simulation and emulation, as well as testing expertise, to ensure successful mission and business outcomes. A recent survey highlights needs and challenges facing the commercial space industry. Greg Patschke, General Manager of Aerospace, Defense, and Government Solutions discusses these trends in his recent article in Aerospace manufacturing and Design. #futureoftechnology #emergingtechnologies #software #space https://lnkd.in/ej7gbamJ?

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Electrifying the Skies: The Mastery Behind Alpine Aviation's Aircraft Electrical Harnesses Posted By Terry Cedar: April 18, 2024  Welcome to Alpine Aviation’s blog, your trusted guide in the intricate world of aircraft electrical harness manufacturing. Specializing in the creation of state-of-the-art harnesses, we power, control, and secure the safety of aircraft. Our aim extends beyond manufacturing; we’re here to shed light on the nuances and innovations of our field, demystifying the complex art and science behind our work. The Heart of Aerospace Engineering Electrical harnesses, the lifelines of an aircraft, are complex networks ensuring seamless operation of onboard systems. From avionics to position lights, these meticulously crafted pathways are crucial for the aircraft's safety, efficiency, and reliability. Alpine Aviation is committed to the integrity and quality of these vital systems.  Designing for Durability and Efficiency Design excellence begins in the blueprint phase, where our engineering team collaborates closely with clients to craft harnesses resilient to flight's harsh conditions. This meticulous planning ensures our products exceed aerospace industry standards. Material Selection: The Foundation of Quality  Our commitment to quality extends to selecting premium materials for wires, insulation, and connectors, all chosen for their durability, lightweight properties, and resistance to extreme environments. This careful selection ensures our harnesses enhance aircraft safety and performance. Precision Manufacturing: Where Technology Meets Craftsmanship Manufacturing precision is our hallmark, blending advanced technology with skilled craftsmanship. From precise cutting of wires to meticulous crimping of connectors, our process is rigorous, ensuring each harness meets our high standards.  Testing for Excellence Our commitment to reliability is underscored by exhaustive testing, from electrical continuity to insulation resistance, ensuring each harness fulfills the stringent requirements of our clients. This rigorous quality assurance affirms our dedication to safety. Beyond Manufacturing: A Partnership in Aviation Safety  Alpine Aviation embodies more than manufacturing excellence; we are a beacon of safety and innovation in the aerospace sector. Our blog serves as a platform for insights into the evolving challenges and advancements in electrical harness manufacturing. We aim to foster a safer, more efficient, and innovative aerospace industry through sharing our expertise. 

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When we are willing to rethink the way we design, manufacture and integrate aircrafts, it becomes obvious that not only #additivemanufacturing is key to success, but also, we must also be willing to rethink the entire #digitaltransformation of the design, assembly and fielding processes and bring the latest technologies together to make the entire workflow optimized. Obviously, the fun part is the qualification and airworthiness ;-)… but the results make the effort worthy: > 95% part consolidation, > 98% tooling cost reduction, > 50% cost reduction Ability to go from design to hardware in a matter of weeks to a few months only. This is only the tip of the “defense aviation revolution iceberg”… PS: we are hiring: https://lnkd.in/gtBdVBmH #Replicator #3dprinting #defense #UAS General Atomics Aeronautical Systems

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The release of the FY25 US defense budget has highlighted significant opportunities available to contractors via the operations and maintenance spend, a budget category expected to grow 9% through FY29. While sustainment has historically been viewed by some as an afterthought, the rapidly growing costs of F-35 sustainment and the resurgence of performance-based logistics have highlighted the significant opportunity available to contractors – but only if they can execute complex sustainment programs to deliver against services’ mission capability rates. Click below to see my colleague, Rodion Kaplounov's breakout of what sustainment and MRO demand could look like in the future.

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Integrating ML into our workflow would allow workers to more safely fulfill their responsibilities. Automating dangerous tasks significantly reduces the chances of electric shock, heat stress, and other risks. Manufacturers could implement cobots for things like welding as they can perform tasks with little to no human intervention and adapt to sudden changes in work conditions. I especially see the need for robots when dealing with hazardous materials. We could utilize this technology to help our team in so many ways. #ML #Manufacturing #Manufacturers

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What does it takes to build a Rolls-Royce engine? The combination and coordination of numerous teams, hundreds of suppliers, thousands of parts and 6000 assembly steps as One Rolls-Royce… To learn more about the full six-step process, click here: https://ow.ly/3mgF50RyluC #precisionengineering #aerospace #engineering #procurement #supplychain #partnership #logistics #safety #quality

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It is an honor to share with you this content from our bisco blog! bisco industries Named Company of The Year In Aerospace & Defense Review Aircraft Parts Distributor Edition ANAHEIM, California, USA – January 26, 2024 bisco industries has been named Company of the Year in the Aerospace and Defense Review magazine’s edition on Aircraft Parts Distributors for 2023. Each year one company is chosen out of the Top 10 Aircraft Parts Distributors; an annual list of specialty distributors that exemplary Aircraft Parts distribution services and positively impact the Aerospace sector. It is a high honor to receive this award and attests to bisco’s successes. With 51 locations across North America and the addition of the first off-continent facility in the Philippines, bisco industries stands out for its unmatched dedication to local customer service. The company guarantees that clients receive dedicated support in their backyard, eliminating concerns about time zone differences and the frustration of dealing with multiple representatives. bisco’s team is commited to resolving complex procurement challenges by combining its extensive network, technical expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction. The aerospace sector has faced difficulties recently, including longer lead times and rising prices. bisco industries addresses these problems by using data analysis to obtain deep understanding of customer requirements, forging strong alliances with top suppliers, and guaranteeing a broad range of options to meet particular needs. In the rapidly evolving field of aircraft parts distribution, bisco industries has set its sights on a future in which genuine people and local assistance continue to be the cornerstone of its success, guaranteeing effective and timely outcomes for clients. To view the complete feature click here. About Aerospace & Defense Review Magazine: Aerospace and Defense Review is a print and digital publication reaching 103,000 validated subscribers in the US. Their readership includes Engineering/Manufacturing/Production Heads, Chief Innovation Officers, Director of Engineering Operations, SVP of Engineering Technology, and other influential decision-makers from the aerospace and defense sectors. They provide a broad platform for industry experts, acquirers, and decision-makers to share their unique insights. About bisco industries: bisco industries is a premier distributor of electronic components, specialty fasteners, and hardware. bisco ascends relationships with a huge network of manufacturers to provide customers with exceptional service. bisco has 52 offices, 7 distribution centers, and an easily accessible e-commerce website.

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It is beyond rewarding to step into a manufacturing facility and help them add money to their bottom line. Being in the trenches with fellow manufacturing people and working through problems side by side is a real passion of mine.  Something big from this week: Transition from 4-hour per unit station build to 1-hour per unit continuous flow. Lean Fundamentals First 30-Day Blitz: 5S, Gemba, Spaghetti Diagram. Current State Waste Identified on Day 1: 8 weeks per year of direct labor wasted in motion alone, with mechanics walking to grab tools, parts, jigs, and equipment. The Math: Labor cost with burden (conservative): $125 per hour Waste cost: $5,000 per week or $40,000 for 8 weeks 75% waste reduction = $30,000 annual cost savings per mechanic This shop has 8 bays = 8 mechanics on 1 shift Total annual cost savings = $240,000 And we haven’t even touched sequential flow yet!!! #Manufacturing #Leadership #Lean #MadeInAmerica

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FMEA’s Electric Bill Comparison for April 2024 shows the average bills of public power utilities across Florida are among the lowest in the state, coming in at an average of $23.69 lower than the average bills of other utilities per 1,000 kWh. To read the full report, visit bit.ly/4bSDuSd. #FLPublicPower #PublicPower

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ABB has been selected by the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) to supply a comprehensive grid-to-propeller solution for the new double-ended, hybrid-electric ferry that will provide essential services between the town of Lincolnville and the island community of Islesboro in the United States. Set to replace an existing diesel-powered ferry, the new vessel will demonstrate the preference of publicly funded organizations in the US for the high reliability and lower emissions achievable using hybrid-electric seagoing technology. ABB’s scope of supply covers the hybrid-electric propulsion and energy storage system. ABB’s award-winning Onboard DC Grid™ power distribution system will ensure optimal use of energy sources, while ABB Ability™ Marine Remote Diagnostic System will enable the monitoring of onboard systems to maximize vessel uptime. The 207-foot (62-meter) length newbuild vessel will transport up to 200 passengers and 40 vehicles between Lincolnville and Islesboro – around three nautical miles from the mainland. Islesboro is designated a ‘Medically Underserved Area’, where approximately 600 year-round residents rely on ferry connections to access healthcare and other critical services. The ferry project is funded primarily by the Federal Transit Administration under its Electric or Low-Emitting Ferry Pilot Program and Ferry Service for Rural Communities Program, with the latter also funding the modernization of the ferry terminals to align with safety and efficiency requirements. #bunkering #energy #shipping #marine #maritime #petroleum #shipowners #decarbonization #digitalization #energytransition #oilandgas #cleanenergy #carboncapture #ports #greenenergy #greenshipping #netzero #sustainability #bunkermarket #europe #usa #uk #canada #uae #netherlands #denmark #norway #sweden #finland #singapore #maine #mainedot #abb #hybridelectricferry #hybridferry #gridtopropulsion #shorepower https://lnkd.in/d-crkztk

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Just finished the learning path “CSCMP Supply Chain Foundations: Customer Relationship Management Professional Certificate”! #customerexperience #customerservice #customervaluecreation

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Precision at Every Connection: Completing Splice Groups and Preparing for Connector Terminations Posted by Terry Cedar on May 1, 2024 In this installment from Alpine Aviation's blog, we delve into a critical phase of aircraft electrical harness manufacturing—completing splice groups and preparing for connector terminations. This step is a testament to our commitment to precision manufacturing, ensuring every connection is robust, reliable, and seamlessly integrates with broader aircraft systems. **Splice Groups: Essential for Wire Integration** Splice groups are crucial for combining multiple wires into a single connection point in aircraft electrical systems, streamlining signal and power paths. The integrity of these splices directly impacts the system's performance, saving space and minimizing weight. **Strategic Planning and Expert Execution** The process starts with detailed planning, where our engineers design each splice to manage the required electrical load while maintaining the harness’s flexibility and durability. Strategic placement reduces wire stress, prevents chafing, and preserves system integrity. **Employing Precision Techniques** We apply advanced splicing techniques tailored to each harness’s needs, whether soldering or crimping, depending on wire gauge, material properties, and environmental exposure. These methods ensure electrical continuity and mechanical strength vital for flight conditions. **Preparation for Connector Terminations** After forming splice groups, we shift focus to connector terminations. These connectors link the harness to the aircraft’s electronic components completing the aircraft management systems. These connections require precise, secure installation. **Choosing the Right Connectors** Selecting appropriate connectors is critical. Each is chosen based on its ability to handle environmental and electrical demands, such as temperature tolerance, vibration resistance, and electromagnetic interference shielding. **Installation and Testing** Installation of connectors involves careful alignment of every pin and socket using specialized tools and strict procedures to ensure perfect positioning and security. Following installation, the harness undergoes extensive testing, including continuity and stress tests, to ensure it meets operational standards. **Conclusion** At Alpine Aviation, the meticulous completion of splice groups and connector terminations reflects our dedication to quality and reliability, affirming our harnesses meet the highest standards for safety and functionality in aviation. #DefenseIndustry #Aerospace #Aviation #AvGeek #AerospaceIndustry #AviationIndustry #Blackhawk #UH60 A/L/M #WireManufacturing #UH60V

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