Microspeakers are integral to defense communication systems, medical devices, and other critical applications that can’t afford delays or quality issues. But historically, these components have been manufactured mostly in Europe and Asia due to highly specialized technologies and methods involved, or to the labor-intensive nature of production. MISCOs adoption of new collaborative robotics (cobots) for its production facilities enables precision assembly and scalable output while enhancing supply chain security for industries requiring US-made components.
A cobot, or collaborative robot, also known as a companion robot, is a robot intended for direct human-robot interaction within a shared space, or where humans and robots are in close proximity. They can do this because they are equipped with sensitive sensors. If the robot is interrupted in its work, it will shoot into a safety mode. In addition to collaborative features, cobots are less expensive and are designed for low-volume, high-mix production, typical of smaller manufacturers.
With ISO 9001:2015 certified facilities in both Minnesota and Asia, MISCO manufactures speakers and audio systems for OEM customers across the globe. Its products serve highly diverse applications, ranging from casino gaming and mass transit to medical, military, commercial sound, musical instrument, professional audio, and even aerospace. Notably, MISCO's speakers are deployed on the Orion spacecraft as part of NASA's Artemis program.
"Customers in sectors such as defense and medical are increasingly prioritizing domestic sourcing for critical components," says Dan Digre, MISCO president and CEO. "Our investment in cobots makes US-based mass production of microspeakers viable, ensuring quality and traceability for mission-critical applications. Integrating advanced technologies like collaborative robotics, our Minnesota factory is able to produce complex products, such as military headset microspeakers and medical devices, right here in the USA."
Beyond defense applications, microspeakers are used in aerospace systems, wearable devices, IoT products, and portable communications equipment. MISCO's reshoring efforts aim to address growing demand for secure and compliant US-manufactured components across multiple industries.
MISCO’s Energy Park facility features advanced capabilities, including an acoustical testing lab, environmental testing chambers for extreme conditions, and 3D printing for rapid prototyping. The company’s ISO 9001:2015-certified processes ensure adherence to international quality standards. Additionally, MISCO’s domestic operations comply with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), supporting defense contractors with secure and reliable solutions.
"The current international trade landscape, marked by rapidly shifting tariffs as well as the recent restrictions on Chinese rare earth magnet exports, poses significant challenges to global supply chains. Having navigated numerous disruptions over our 75 years, we are committed to staying agile and forward-thinking. We are expanding our sourcing to include more suppliers from non-tariffed countries while reinforcing our dedication to American manufacturing," Dan Digre adds.
www.miscospeakers.com
