When your production line feels like it’s been dragged into the Upside Down, it might be time to call in more than just “Eleven.” The hit television show Stranger Things has captured imaginations with its blend of 80s nostalgia, supernatural threats, and team of unlikely heroes who always find a way to fight back.
But what if we told you the same themes—chaos, teamwork, and transformation—also apply to modern manufacturing?
At ATS Industrial Automation, our experienced service team helps manufacturers face their own Demogorgons, like unplanned downtime, outdated processes, and disappearing manufacturing expertise. And just like the Stranger Things crew in Hawkins, we bring the right tools, team, and a little bit of tech magic to save the day.
The Demogorgon in the Machine: When Equipment Goes Rogue
It’s frustrating when a machine breaks down unexpectedly. But there’s a better way to handle equipment challenges. At ATS, Smart Maintenance solutions use data and artificial intelligence (AI) to detect issues before they escalate. This includes:
- Remote diagnostics and predictive analytics to help teams stay ahead of potential failures
- Digital twins to simulate performance and identify weak points before they become real, costly problems
Outrun Downtime with Smarter Spare Parts Management
Remember Max’s desperate sprint to escape Vecna? That’s what it feels like when manufacturers must scramble to replace a critical part and avoid costly delays. Often, it can seem like an uphill battle to keep the line moving and meet tight schedules.
Spare parts management and obsolescence monitoring services from ATS ensure teams always have what they need, whenever they need it. Our eCommerce dashboard also makes ordering fast and easy, helping manufacturers ensure the line runs smoothly.
When Experts Vanish, Virtual Reality Training Restores Balance
Sometimes experienced operators leave the team, making it feel like they’ve been pulled into the Upside Down. But with immersive virtual reality (VR) training and Smart Coach™ tools, new hires can ramp up quickly, confidently, and safely. These interactive training techniques enable manufacturers to:
- Standardize training across shifts
- Reduce safety incidents and rework
- Preserve institutional knowledge and boost retention
Stuck in the Past? Time to Modernize Your Maintenance
Are you still using paper-based standard operating procedures (SOPs), maintenance logs, and legacy systems? Such methods can lead to errors and data silos. It can also slow down the decision-making process. It’s like fighting Vecna with just a walkie-talkie.
At ATS, Illuminate™ Manufacturing Intelligence and digital maintenance strategies bring operations into the present. With real-time data and smart alerts, teams are well-equipped to make faster, better decisions.
Pre-Automation: Where Innovation Happens
Before the Hawkins National Laboratory opened portals to other dimensions, they ran experiments. At ATS Industrial Automation, we offer manufacturers the same opportunity, minus the monsters.
Pre-automation helps manufacturers innovate and explore new ideas safely and strategically. This proactive approach helps teams avoid major rework—or big surprises—down the road. Our pre-automation services include:
- Concept development
- Simulation and risk assessment
- Proof of principle studies
Using Simulation to Fight Chaos
Just like flashlights reveal what may be lurking in the shadows, system twins allow manufacturing teams to visualize, simulate, and optimize every process step before power-on. These advanced replicas of entire manufacturing systems mimic the physical attributes and behaviors of machines, robots, software, and other components, offering:
- Remote monitoring, diagnostics, and predictive maintenance
- Simulation and testing to identify bottlenecks before they happen
- Virtual commissioning to debug and pressure-test systems early
- Risk-free training environments
Want to dive deeper? Download our System Twins eBook to explore how virtualization can transform operations.
Why Cross-Functional Teams Win Every Time
The Stranger Things crew succeeds because of their diverse skills. So does ATS Industrial Automation. Our integrated, global teams bring together automation engineers, digitalization experts, and service specialists to help you solve the toughest challenges in your factory. Whether it’s scaling up, modernizing, or troubleshooting, we’ve got your back—no matter where you are.
Closing the Portal on Downtime
Stranger Things reminds us that even the most chaotic situations can be overcome by having a plan, thinking creatively, and assembling a strong, supportive team.
At ATS Industrial Automation, we help manufacturers face their own Upside Downs with smart services, predictive tech, and a collaborative approach, reducing downtime and costly rework. You don’t need psychic powers—just a partner who understands the automation lifecycle and has the right tools and team to help you slay those factory Demogorgons.
Ready to elevate your manufacturing operations? Contact us today to get started.
Every project is unique. Allow us to listen to your challenges and share how automation can launch your project on time.
Joe Brown
Business Development Specialist
ATS Industrial Automation
Joe helps companies of all kinds to automate and scale production using bespoke automated assembly, test, and conveyance systems.
