Cognex achieves preferred supplier status with Ford Motor Company

MARCH 17--Cognex Corporation (Natick, MA; www.cognex.com) is one of a select group of suppliers--and the only machine-vision company--to meet Ford Motor Company stringent requirements for preferred supplier status under Ford's Green Compliant Supplier program. Ford awards preferred status for exceptional product reliability and maintainability.

Before awarding this status to Cognex, Ford reviewed historical product-quality data and determined that Cognex had demonstrated a commitment to improving product reliability, developing products that are easily maintained, providing spare parts when needed, and minimizing operational costs over the life of the product. As part of Ford's strategy to acquire the best possible production equipment, the Green Compliant Supplier program is one of its key tools used to evaluate a supplier's future business opportunities.

"We are pleased to be recognized by Ford for our commitment to providing industrial-grade products that meet the highest standards for reliability in the manufacturing environment," said Jim Hoffmaster, chief operating officer for Cognex.

As a result of this status, Cognex has the opportunity to supply Ford with a number of In-Sight vision sensors for use throughout its global powertrain operations. These vision sensors will read 2D codes that have been marked directly on parts for the purpose of tracking those parts throughout the manufacturing process.