When the last step in an assembly line is a human inspecting the paint job, there are bound to be errors. Ann Arbor-based Autaza is working to eliminate potentially costly mistakes in the quality control process by using artificial intelligence and cameras to detect dirt, bubbles, scratches or other defects in the paint on vehicles and other surfaces. In doing so, the company is pivoting those wearisome and sometimes monotonous human inspection jobs to more high-skill level, advanced manufacturing careers. Autaza is the first company to receive funding from the state of Michigan’s Industry 4.0 Accelerator, a collaboration between Automation Alley, Lean Rocket Lab and Lawrence Technological University’s Centrepolis Accelerator.
Two MEDC-supported projects focused on bringing new opportunities for economic growth and local vitality have been recognized by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) at this year’s IEDC 2021 annual conference in Nashville, TN. IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards recognize the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders. The Cadillac Lofts project in downtown Cadillac was recognized with a gold award in the Real Estate Redevelopment and Reuse category, and the BLOCK600 project in downtown Lansing won a gold award in the Public-Private Partnerships category.
