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Looking to engineer a resurgence; Prototype and Production Systems Inc. specializes in solving problems that seem to defy solution on the way to building machines for medical device firms and others.

Article Excerpt
Byline: TODD NELSON

Chuck Raymond enjoys building machines that conquer difficult technical problems for medical device companies and other clients of his Plymouth-based Prototype and Production Systems Inc.

Defying solution so far, for Raymond and many other manufacturers, has been the recession. A recent increase in contacts from existing and prospective clients, though, has raised Raymond's hopes.

"I think we're going to come roaring back," said Raymond, a self-described "refugee of Honeywell research" who founded PPSI in 1989. "We've got a lot of people that have been on the sidelines that are starting to show interest."

Raymond's background combines mechanical, electrical and computer engineering. PPSI's staff includes mechanical, electrical, chemical and computer engineers. The company produces custom automated machinery, industrial ink-jet printing components and systems, printed circuit board processing equipment and custom extrusion equipment. It also offers engineering consulting and services.

Last-resort supplier

PPSI has a reputation as a last-resort supplier of niche, high-tech machines, often incorporating robotics, for clients that tend to be quick to invest in new solutions. That has helped in good times...