In addition to supplying equipment for the automation of assembly lines, FlexLink now offers software for investment analysis. The software evaluates alternatives during the project phase so that correct information regarding, for example, the payback time of the investment is secured.

At the "Forum for profitable automation", at FlexLink in Göteborg, Sweden on September 17, newly developed software for investment calculation was presented. The software is designed to give a uniform comparison between actual alternatives when investing in automated assembly lines. A decision has to take revenue and cost during the entire lifetime of the equipment into account, as well as the introduction of new product varieties to be produced, and thereby give information relevant to the eventual reconfiguration or extension of the line.

An important factor is that the calculation shows the relation between the degree of automation and the product yield. The calculation also considers relevant issues concerning, for instance the presence of operators, a factor that can be influenced by using ergonomically designed workplaces. A prototype of the software has recently been used in the decision process in a successfully completed project with a world-leading manufacturer in Mexico.

"We see that our customers are increasingly interested in this type of software", says 
Sven-Erik Eckerström, responsible for the development of the software at FlexLink. 
"As we build long-term relations with our customers, we will have access to what is generally regarded as sensitive information. Due to the fact that the demand for safer and more profitable investments have grown, we now experience a more open dialogue with our customers."

FlexLink started in 1980 and is a leading global supplier of innovative automation solutions to assembly and manufacturing industries. FlexLink, based in Göteborg, Sweden employs 550 people in 20 companies and is represented in 50 countries. In 2001, group turnover was 139 million Euro. 

Göteborg, September 17, 2002

FlexLink AB

For further information, please contact:

Fredrik Jönsson
CEO
+46-31-337 1626
+46-705-17 1626 

Mats Nilsson
Corporate Communication
+46-31-337 1220
+46-703-77 1220

FlexLink AB, 415 50 Göteborg. 
+46-31-337 3100
Fax +46-31-337 2233