Methods Machine Tools has formed a new group—Methods Automation—to assist customers in maximizing performance of the individual machine tool as well as the overall manufacturing process. The company named Norton Kaplan to lead the new endeavor. Among his new responsibilities will be heading a group that will evaluate the customer's manufacturing process and suggest automation opportunities, including robotic loading/unloading of parts or tools; improved machining methods; integrating/automating processes such adeburring, cleaning, polishing, inspection, marking (for traceability and documentation), assembly, packaging, sealing, labeling and transferring parts between these processes. Kaplan previously developed robotic automation systems for Cimflex Techknowledge Inc. and designed and marketed systems for Automated Assemblies Inc. According to a company press release, he has more than 28 years' experience in manufacturing automation and advised “Fortune 100” corporations on automated precision assembly and packaging in the production of medical devices, automotive parts, electronics and communication devices.