Nissan North American Technical Center

Pioneering Automotive R&D with Programmable Motion Control

In 2004, Shenyang Weizhong Revolving Machinery Co., Ltd. achieved a global engineering first by delivering two 6-meter heavy-duty programmable turntables to the Nissan North American Technical Center in Detroit. Partnering with Smartstage Inc., Weizhong engineered the world’s first motion-control platforms specifically tailored for high-stakes automotive Research & Development.

These massive platforms, boasting a 20,000 kg (20-ton) load capacity, were designed to accommodate full-sized prototype vehicles and heavy testing equipment. The integration of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) allowed Nissan’s engineers to automate rotations to precise, predetermined angles. This precision is critical for analyzing vehicle aerodynamics, structural aesthetics, and functional ergonomics from every possible degree without manual repositioning.

A distinctive feature of this project was the concrete top surface, engineered to integrate seamlessly with the technical center's industrial flooring. This provided a stable, vibration-free environment necessary for sensitive scanning and laser-measurement tools. By replacing manual processes with efficient, error-free automation, Weizhong’s technology significantly accelerated Nissan's prototyping cycles and enhanced design accuracy.

This landmark project solidified Weizhong’s reputation as a global innovator in industrial automation. By bridging heavy-duty mechanical engineering with advanced digital control, we continue to provide automotive giants with the tools needed to push the boundaries of vehicle design and innovation.