Campro at TMTS 2026: Flexible Automation and Multi-Tasking Machines for a Changing Production Landscape

Amid growing demand for flexibility in manufacturing, Campro Precision Machinery Co., Ltd. used its presence at the Taiwan International Machine Tool Show (TMTS) 2026 to highlight a practical approach to automation—one that adapts to real production challenges rather than fixed system designs.

In a discussion with International Metalworking News for Asia, Mr. Zachary Tsai, General Manager of Campro, shared how the company is helping customers transition from standalone machines to integrated, automated production environments.

From Single Machines to Automated Cells

At this year’s exhibition, Campro presented a multi-tasking lathe integrated with robotic automation, designed to function as a compact production cell.

“We combine the machine with a robot arm, so it becomes an automatic production cell,” Mr. Tsai explained. “It helps customers produce more precisely and more efficiently.”

The goal is not just automation for its own sake, but enabling customers to better understand and control their production processes.

“In the past, customers could only imagine this kind of system,” he said. “Now we can actually help them build it.”

Customization Starts with the Customer’s Process

Campro’s approach begins with a detailed understanding of the customer’s requirements.

“First, we study the customer’s product and drawings,” Mr. Tsai said. “Then we select the most suitable machine and discuss what kind of automation system they need.”

Depending on the application, this could range from: simple gantry loading and unloading; robotic arms for flexible production; and integration with AGVs or other systems.

“Every customer is different,” he added. “So, we have to work with multiple suppliers and design the system accordingly.”

Adapting to High-Mix, Low-Volume Production

One of the biggest changes Campro sees in the market is the shift toward smaller production volumes and more frequent product changes.

“Customers today are not like before,” Mr. Tsai noted. “They may only produce 100 or 200 pieces, and then quickly switch to another job.”

This shift requires machines that are more adaptable and future-proof.

“We have to leave room in the design so the machine can be adjusted later,” he explained. “It’s not just about one product anymore.”

Flexible Automation, Not Over-Engineering

While automation is central to Campro’s offering, the company avoids overcomplicating systems.

“For simple applications, we don’t even need external software,” Mr. Tsai said. “We can use the machine controller to handle the automation.”

At the same time, more advanced systems can be implemented when needed.

“It depends on what the customer wants,” he added. “We always choose the most suitable solution, not the most complex one.”

Long-Term Partnership and Reconfigurability

Campro also emphasizes long-term collaboration with customers, particularly as production needs evolve.

“If customers change their product next year, we can help them adjust the machine,” Mr. Tsai said. “We prefer to build long-term cooperation.”

However, he acknowledged that flexibility depends on how predictable the customer’s business is.

“For customers with stable production plans, it’s easier,” he noted. “For job shops, it can be more challenging because they don’t know what comes next.”

Navigating a More Competitive Market

The global machine tool landscape has become increasingly competitive, particularly at the entry level.

“After the pandemic, the market has changed a lot,” Mr. Tsai observed. “China has improved very fast, especially for entry-level machines.”

As a result, Campro is shifting its focus toward higher-value solutions.

“We cannot compete in that space anymore,” he said. “So we focus on multi-tasking machines and automation—areas where we can create more value.”

Refocusing on Core Strengths

Campro’s strategy has also evolved internally. After years of developing automation and IoT capabilities, the company has streamlined its focus.

“In the past, we invested a lot in IoT and automation systems,” Mr. Tsai explained. “But now we focus more on machine design and building.”

Rather than trying to do everything in-house, Campro now collaborates with specialized partners.

“We work with professional automation companies,” he said. “This way, we can concentrate on what we do best—machine design.”

A Practical Vision for Smart Manufacturing

Campro’s approach to smart manufacturing is grounded in practicality: Start with the customer’s actual production needs; Build flexible systems that can evolve over time; and focus on value rather than complexit.

As Mr. Tsai put it: “We provide solutions to help customers move from single machines to automated production—but in a way that really fits their situation.”

In a market where flexibility is becoming just as important as precision, that mindset may be exactly what manufacturers are looking for.