From First Robot to Strategic Partner: Our Journey with FANUC
SDC’s relationship with FANUC began with a single piece of equipment—selected specifically for its exceptional vision-based conveyor tracking capabilities. That initial success quickly proved the value of FANUC’s technology, leading us to incorporate their robots into a growing number of custom automation projects. Over time, our deep experience with robotic integration and our ability to solve complex manufacturing challenges have made us a go-to partner for high-performance automation solutions.
In fact, many of our customers specifically request FANUC robotic integration for their systems. Recognizing our expertise and consistent results, FANUC now refers new opportunities to SDC, trusting us to deliver innovative, reliable robotic applications across a wide range of industries. With their broad portfolio of robot types and sizes, we’re able to match the perfect solution to each unique project.
SDC received their third Outstanding Sales Growth award in 2024, with an increase of 533% over last year. This year alone, we are on track to grow by another 16%. The last few years have provided us with many great projects to showcase our robotic integration capabilities, seen in the recent Precision Packaging Automation case study.
How We Work Together – A Melding of Robotic Excellence and Automation Expertise
As a level III FANUC ASI, and after working with a variety of FANUC products for over 15 years, SDC has found the perfect mix of robotics and innovative technology to meet both new and existing customer challenges. FANUC’s robot flexibility allows us to concentrate on the detailed design of our machines, knowing that the challenge of how to move and manipulate parts through the machine is already solved.
SDC’s Mechanical and Electrical Engineer, Dan Garr, has been working with FANUC robots for nearly 10 years. Reflecting on past projects, “I prefer them due to their high performance (speed/precision) and extensive library of advanced options and features. No matter what type of complicated task we have been given to do with a robot, they’ve had an option that made it solvable.”
To expand on that performance, we also asked what his favorite project has been. He responded, “Robotic deflashing using a triple arm plus aux axis configuration. It was incredible to see 3 different robots moving perfectly in sync with a rotating part. Being able to shift the programmed path to different arms and areas of the parts because of the dynamic user frame option was elegant and efficient… It was a really cool project that got to use a lot of complex motion and features, and it was all from a single controller.”
Key Benefits
- As a FANUC robotic integrator, we have found that their robots are relatively easy to program, shortening project completion time for our customers
- FANUC robots work for almost all applications due to the variety of robot sizes and types and because they excel in high-speed operations
- There is a high degree of control over the robot’s motion compared to others. Each move can be customized while still allowing the robot to optimize its speed. This translates to advanced machine performance and higher success rates.
- We have access to support engineers and product specialists at FANUC who have been instrumental to the success of our projects. Once we ship a machine, we are able to easily set up our customers with aftermarket support, training, and service directly from FANUC, should they need it.
Why Work with SDC
After being in this industry for over 25 years, we have built an array of preferred suppliers to suit each of our customers’ needs. From robotics to camera systems, and label applicators to conveyor systems, our library of advanced technology pushes our level of expertise to the next level. With many returning customers and new ones we partner with every year, we continue to build our project scope and unique capabilities.
Laura Evans, FANUC Sr. District Manager states:
“FANUC appreciates our partnership with Steven Douglas Corporation, and the opportunity to work with their talented team. SDC is unique because they are more than just a robot integrator, they are machine builders first who use our robots as part of a unique solution. They embrace the many features that we offer such as iRVision Tracking, aux axes, and dual-arm configurations to name a few. Their solutions for electronics, medical devices, and consumer products continually impress us with their creative approach, quality of workmanship, and innovative solutions.”
More Than Robotic Integration – About SDC
We stand apart from the competition in more ways than one. We don’t just integrate robots, we are first and foremost a custom machine builder that solves today’s toughest manufacturing challenges with automated solutions. Our project scope encompasses every step, from concepting to installed machine support, all from within the United States.
Who We Are
Since 1998, our team of innovators, problem solvers, and skilled professionals have been pushing the boundaries of automation to deliver robust, high-performance systems. With over 25 years in business, more than 1,400 machines built, and a growing team of 80+ experts, we bring deep technical expertise and creative thinking to every project we take on.
What We Do
We excel in full-scale custom automation, semi-automated solutions, and specialized machine designs, blending mechanical engineering, controls, programming, and integration to deliver turnkey systems. Whether improving throughput, enhancing quality, or solving a production bottleneck, our goal is always the same: create long-lasting and reliable machines through innovation, reliability, and expert craftsmanship.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
What makes SDC a preferred FANUC robotic integrator?
SDC has over 15 years of experience working with FANUC products and is recognized as a Level III FANUC ASI (Authorized System Integrator). Our proven track record in FANUC robotic integration across industries and complex applications has made us a trusted partner. FANUC frequently refers new opportunities to us due to our innovative, high-performance solutions and consistent project success.
How does SDC approach robotic integration differently than others?
Unlike some integrators, SDC is first and foremost a custom machine builder. We don’t just add robots to existing setups—we design and build full-scale custom automation and semi-automated solutions tailored to each client’s needs. Our integration of FANUC robots is just one part of a comprehensive, end-to-end solution developed entirely in-house.
What are the key advantages of working with a robotic systems integrator like SDC?
As an experienced robotic systems integrator, we bring together mechanical design, controls engineering, and programming expertise under one roof. Our partnership with FANUC gives us access to a wide range of robot types, sizes, and advanced features like iRVision Tracking and aux axis control. This ensures precise, reliable, and flexible automation systems that boost performance and reduce lead time.
What industries and applications does SDC support with FANUC robotic integration?
SDC provides FANUC robotic integration solutions across diverse industries including electronics, medical devices, automotive, and consumer goods. Our systems range from semi-automated solutions to complex, multi-robot configurations in full-scale custom automation projects. We tailor each solution to meet specific production challenges, from precision handling to high-speed operations.
Why do customers request FANUC robotic integration specifically with SDC?
Our customers often request FANUC robots due to their reliability and advanced motion capabilities and they trust SDC to unlock their full automated machine potential. With multiple awards for sales growth and over 1,400 machines built since 1998, we’ve demonstrated our ability to deliver innovative, scalable solutions with the highest levels of craftsmanship and support.
