TODAY’S CUSTOM ENCLOSURES: Why tailored enclosures for specialized automation equipment are increasingly popular. p. 12
Modernizing manufacturing facilities with edge and cloud solutions p. 14
INNOVATION IN ROBOTICS: Maple Advanced Robotics’ Autonomous Adaptable Robot System (AARS). p. 16
Automation technologies and solutions to consider this year p.8
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Experts from the industrial automation space share the technology and advanced manufacturing trends that will impact manufacturers in 2025.
By Sukanya Ray Ghosh
Why tailored enclosures for specialized automation equipment are increasingly popular, the option most don’t know about, and what’s ahead.
By Treena Hein
Modernize your manufacturing facilities by leveraging the power of edge and cloud computing.
By Jack Kazmierski
A look at Maple Advanced Robotics’ award-winning Autonomous Adaptable Robot System (AARS) and its applications.
By Sukanya Ray Ghosh
Since the beginning of this year, the far-reaching impacts of tariffs have occupied all facets of Canadian manufacturers’ decision-making. The threat is very real and could cause an economic crisis with devastating consequences.
Alan Arcand, Chief Economist at Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, in a conversation with Manufacturing AUTOMATION, explained that Canada is a trade-driven economy with a very strong reliance on the U.S. market. This is especially true for manufacturing. Manufactured goods make up approximately two-thirds of Canada’s merchandise exports to the U.S. Forty-four percent of the manufacturing sector’s total sales are driven by exports to the U.S.
Arcand estimates that the overall GDP of Canada could see a potential decline of about 3.1 percent at the peak of impact. He noted that the manufacturing sector would be the hardest hit with a potential decline of eight percent or higher.
At the time of writing this, the tariffs have been imposed, with Canada announcing retaliatory tariffs on goods coming in from the U.S. As both countries try to work out what is best for their people and economies, this volatile trade environment serves as a wakeup call for Canadian manufacturers. This is not the first time that tariffs have been discussed and certainly not the last time it will be. However, this is perhaps the right time to consider how manufacturing can be strengthened in Canada to counter any such threats and other challenges such as global market shutdowns, impacted supply chains due to geo-political tensions and more, now and in the future.
At times of crisis, every manufacturing business looks into the different ways to
keep costs under check while continuing to bring in the dollars to weather the storm. Technology adoption and automation projects, which are often capital-intensive, are not on the radar. Understandably, investing in automation is not the need of the hour in times of economic crisis.
However, it is important to remember that when conditions go back to normal, adopting advanced automation technologies can be one of the tools used to future-proof manufacturing operations. Smart factory technologies today have the capability of predicting potential disruptions and identifying course-correction measures that can help manufacturers pivot quickly when needed. Of course, it is unrealistic to expect manufacturers to be able to shift their primary markets at the drop of a hat. While automation is not a magic pill that will solve problems in an instant, it can offer a buffer to course through the tough times until conditions improve.
Manufacturing AUTOMATION , in partnership with Automate Canada, is hosting its second annual Canadian Automation Leadership Summit on June 3, 2025, at Crowne Plaza Kitchener-Waterloo. The event offers a platform for Canadian manufacturing leaders and executives to come together and discuss how automation can help them secure the future of their companies. Attendees can network with their peers and industry experts to understand how to make their automation and digital transformation journeys smooth, efficient, effective and successful.
The reins of success for any automation project is in the hands of the people in the manufacturing operations . Recognize the leaders who drive innovation and positive change with automation through our annual Top 10 Under 40! | MA
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FedDev Ontario invests over $10M to strengthen Southern Ontario’s EV supply chain
The Honourable Ruby Sahota, Minister of Democratic Institutions and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) announced a combined investment of over $10 million for seven manufacturers in southern Ontario’s EV supply chain.
The funding will boost Canadian production capabilities, upgrade equipment to improve efficiency and competitiveness and support local supply chains. These companies include: Enedym, Forest City Castings, Palcam Technologies, Process Research Ortech, Proventus Global, Sinteris Canada and SWTCH Energy.
With this funding, these companies will make it easier to integrate EV charging stations for businesses and homes, increase parts production and strengthen southern Ontario’s position in the EV manufacturing sector.
Minister Sahota made the announcement at the Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS). She met with manufacturers, auto suppliers and stakeholders in the EV industry to learn about new innovations and opportunities in the supply chain, while reinforcing the Government of Canada’s support for this critical sector.
WMTS 2025 to highlight additive manufacturing, automation and smart tech in Edmonton
SME’s Western Manufacturing Technology Show (WMTS) 2025 is reportedly set to deliver a transformative experience for Western Canadian manufacturers, with the launch of the
SmartMTX Pavilion in partnership with the Manufacturing & Export Enhancement Cluster (MEEC). This year, WMTS will also be co-located with the Automation Expo & Conference – an automation event produced by the International Society of Automation’s Edmonton Section. Consequently, both audiences will benefit from an expanded experience when they gather in one central location to discuss manufacturing innovation, notes SME.
Taking place from April 9 to 11 at the Edmonton Expo Centre, WMTS 2025 will provide industry professionals with access to cutting-edge automation, smart manufacturing solutions and digital transformation strategies. Through a strategic partnership with the MEEC, the event will further amplify opportunities for manufacturers to explore advanced technologies, collaborate on industry challenges and accelerate the adoption of smart manufacturing practices. Hosted by the MEEC, the SmartMTX Pavilion will be a hands-on innovation hub for manufacturers to engage with real-world applications of AI, robotics, IoT and data-driven production.
International Federation of Robotics shares top trends for 2025
The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) has shared a press statement outlining the top global robotics trends for 2025.
1 Artificial intelligence – Physical, analytical, generative: the trend toward artificial intelligence in robotics is growing. By leveraging diverse AI technologies, robotics can perform a wide range of tasks more efficiently.
2. Humanoids: IFR explains that robots in the shape of human bodies will become general-purpose tools that can work on an assembly line. Industrial manufacturers are reportedly focusing on humanoids performing single-purpose tasks only.
3. Sustainability: Energy efficiency Compliance with the U.N.’s environmental sustainability goals and corresponding regulations around the world is becoming an important requirement for inclusion on supplier whitelists. Robots play a key role in helping manufacturers achieve these goals.
4. Robots – New fields of business: The adoption of industrial robots by small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) is still hampered by high initial investment and total cost of ownership. Robot-as-a-Service (RaaS) business models allow enterprises to benefit from robotic automation with no fixed capital involved.
5. Robots addressing labour shortage: The use of robotics significantly reduces the impact of labour shortages in manufacturing. By automating dirty, dull, dangerous or delicate tasks, human workers can focus on more interesting and higher-value tasks.
Weidmuller Canada strengthens Quebec presence with Contact FD partnership
Weidmuller Canada has appointed Contact FD as its new sales agent for the Quebec region. The company shares in a press statement that it is eager to partner with Contact FD. With this strategic collaboration, Weidmuller aims to enhance its position and strengthen its connections with clients in the region.
Kevin Blair, national sales manager at Weidmuller said, “Quebec is a very important market for us, and we’ve seen steady growth here in recent years. To sustain and accelerate this momentum, we believe Contact FD is an ideal partner. Their deep understanding of the market, coupled with their exceptional team, will help us build stronger connections with our customers.”
“Contact FD has a proud history of representing top manufacturers in the electrical products and industrial controls sector. Partnering with Weidmuller is an exciting opportunity, given their outstanding lineup of products that align perfectly with market needs. We are confident this partnership will deliver significant value to our customers,” said Rene Martin, director of Contact FD.
With this partnership, Weidmuller Canada reportedly reaffirms its commitment to driving innovation, enhancing customer relationships, and expanding its footprint in the Quebec market.
“With Contact FD’s outstanding reputation, this partnership will enhance our ability to serve our customers and distributors while focusing on developing the industrial market in Eastern Quebec,” noted Stephane Provost, regional sales manager for Weidmuller.
BY JONATHAN GROSS
Consulting, a vendor-neutral consulting firm. He leads clients through the entire digital transformation lifecycle, including: technology architecture and planning, technology vendor selection, technology procurement, implementation, and ongoing optimization.
Since his inauguration, U.S. President Donald Trump has upended global supply chains with a rapid-fire series of executive orders imposing tariffs with almost immediate effect. Unfortunately, this type of economic shock is becoming the norm rather than the exception. Over the past nine years, businesses have faced Trump’s first-term trade policies, the COVID-19 pandemic, and various whipsaw changes during Trump’s second term.
Historically, companies had ample lead time to study scenarios and incrementally test strategic responses. Today, time is a luxury they can no longer afford. Those who succeed in the long run will be those capable of rapid response.
This is playing out in real-time across our manufacturing client base. Some are already in action mode – shifting supply sources, renegotiating contracts and even relocating manufacturing and inventory to more tariff-friendly jurisdictions. Others are still churning through preliminary analysis – gathering data and assessing options. I worry about how this latter group will fare in the long run.
Below are key areas manufacturers are addressing to meet the changing economic landscape.
In response to imposed, planned or potential tariffs, manufacturers are evaluating their supply chain with the goal of finding affordable supply sources. A standard first step is an internal analysis of existing suppliers and vendors. Companies will examine supplier performance across
cost, lead time, reliability and quality dimensions to determine whether they can reliably shift purchasing to already approved alternate suppliers or if they need to source new suppliers.
Manufacturers will also want to simulate the impacts of any changes, assessing the full landed cost impacts by evaluating the shipping, customs and insurance costs of the various options. Changes will likely have a ripple effect from source to customer, so companies should assess the impacts on production schedules, fulfillment schedules and customer delivery promise dates.
When making changes, companies may need to source new vendors and negotiate new contracts. Often, this process begins with a structured request-for-quotation, followed by the onboarding of new suppliers and rigorous initial quality reviews. Companies that excel in these areas will be able to rapidly
pivot their sourcing strategies to prioritize purchases based on the lowest cost, shortest lead time or other dimensions. Modern ERP systems, for example, allow manufacturers to implement sourcing strategies that the MRP engine uses to automate its suggested purchase orders.
Businesses might not be able to pass all cost increases to their customers. To protect net margins, companies can also look inward to partially offset the value of cost increases by removing business process waste. For example, can companies optimize their production schedules to maximize effective capacity? Can they revisit product designs and bills of materials to maximize yield and reduce scrap? Are there manual reports that can be automated to reduce wasteful data re-entry time?
Ultimately, reducing business process waste serves a
dual purpose of both protecting margins and building a nimbler organization capable of responding to sudden shifts.
These are just a few key areas that Canadian manufacturers can investigate to address actual and threatened tariffs.
Companies that are proving capable of quickly pivoting cut across sectors, differ in size and have varying levels of operational complexity. Despite these differences, they share one major commonality – their core processes and data are tightly controlled, typically in an ERP system.
ERP is fundamentally both a planning engine that balances supply and demand and a near real-time accounting system tied to operational modules. ERP enforces controlled business processes, which may seem constraining. However, these controls enable agility. Accurate data for timely analysis, scenario planning tools and features that enable course changes all contribute to a strong manufacturing ERP solution. This includes integrated sourcing and procurement functionality, what-if scenario planning and as-needed analytics to support timely decision-making. By continually refining their core processes and leveraging robust ERP systems, companies can build resilience and responsiveness, providing them with a foundation to effectively navigate the complexities of ongoing economic shocks and emerge stronger in the face of adversity. | MA
from the industrial automation space share the technology and advanced manufacturing trends that will impact manufacturers in 2025.
Canadian companies have had a rough start to the year as discussions on the potential economic impact of tariffs point towards difficult times ahead. Manufacturers are in strict saving-mode, hoping to emerge from this potential crisis mostly unscathed.
While the end of 2024 suggested a growing focus on humanoid robotics and further advancements in AI, automation technologies have taken a backseat in current plans for Canadian manufacturers.
However, industry experts suggest that automation and advanced manufacturing technologies might offer support against constantly changing economic forces and global market conditions.
Reshoring to overcome supply chain challenges, artificial intelligence, flexible automation systems, reliance on data and purpose-built robots are some of the trends that experts believe will be mainstays in the industrial automation space for the manufacturing industry.
In this article, automation experts take a deep dive into the top industrial automation trends that can be instrumental in shaping the strategies and operations of Canadian manufacturers in 2025.
To take a look at the predictions from previous years, check out our digital archive at automationmag.com/digital.
Jim Beretta is president of Customer Attraction, an industrial marketing consultancy. He works with companies in robotics, automation, manufacturing, packaging and capital equipment on branding, marketing and search engine strategies. He graduated from Western University and is based in London, Ont. Jim can be reached at jim@customerattraction. com and you can hear him too, on The Robot Industry Podcast at TheRobotIndustryPodcast.com.
1. More nearshoring and reshoring
Manufacturing companies are currently asking builders and integrators about moving their automation out of Mexico to Canada or the USA or wondering about hedging their bets and creating duplicate automation systems. This may create some short-term work for the machine builder community.
2. More manufacturing moving to the U.S.A.?
If tariffs do happen, Canadian-based manufacturers could move more manufacturing to U.S.A. locations. This is a problem for some who have relied on exchange rates for so long, with the added challenge that exporting or embedding Canadian talent is not so easy. Will Canada’s machine builders,
for example, pivot to become design experts and do some or more building in the U.S.A.?
For years we have called out dull, dirty and dangerous jobs as key motivators to install automation. The new motivator is most certainly data. Almost all of my webinars and interviews on The Robot Industry Podcast contain some content around data and the new value of data. As an example, a hotel robot vacuum entrepreneur who I recently interviewed on the pod said the bot was reporting weak WiFi spots to hotel management as data and as a byproduct of being in every room of the hotel.
4. For Canada, innovation is more important than ever
Automation suppliers need to continue to offer innovative solutions built-in or baked into their offerings. ATS Automation offers Illuminate Manufacturing Intelligence software; BOS Innovations has a tool called Proximity Smart Support to ensure high uptime in their automation systems. Manufacturers will reduce unplanned downtime, and make better, smarter decisions.
5. AI, AI and more AI
I believe that we are just seeing the beginnings of AI in the automation community. AI will continue to be embedded into robots, chips, vision, software and into cameras such as Waterloo’s LabForge Bottlenose
camera system. Programming PLC devices for complex systems such as automated welding. Companies such as Vooban in Montreal will help manufacturers tie into disparate systems and automation. I suspect that manufacturers will soon start hiring
directors of AI who will oversee measuring and finding efficiencies and improving ROI.
6. More purpose-built robots
The robot industry continues to grow and the more specialized the bot the better. A great
example of a specialized robot is Mecademic Robots, small and highly accurate six axis and SCARA industrial robotics powering innovations in photonics, optical, medical device, watchmaking and automotive industry. Their robot line has integrated controls, low power draw, operates as a slave device and has no proprietary programming language – and no pendants.
Automation will continue to strive for simplicity and accessibility. An example of this trend: Maple Advanced Robotics Inc. just won an important accolade, the Hannover Messe Robotics Award 2025, for making its AARS system flexible, scalable, and intelligent. This award of excellence is in the field of robot-assisted automation.
8. More machine builders?
Is this the right time to start a robot integration or machine building company? Probably yes; the last “right time” was 20 years ago. Seriously, with all the M&A activity and consolidation in the industry across North America, creating a startup may be a unique strategy on its own.
9. Autonomy for everyone
Autonomous Mobile Robots or AMRs had a slow startup when only the big manufacturers could invest in tech such as AMRs. Now accessible to even small and medium manufacturers they can create a competitive advantage by controlling discrete devices such as robots, forklifts and robots mounted on AMRs.
10. More flexible systems
Part feeding has always been automation’s Achilles Heel. Welcome to the decade of the smarter feeder that uses vision, software and robotics. These brands include Flexibowl, Asyril and Epson Robotics IntelliFlex as solutions for small-parts intelligent feeders.
11. Improving Canada’s competitiveness with automation
We are really very talented at industrial automation and export a lot of it south. That said, we as manufacturers have to become smarter, faster, and bolder. We must invest in our own automated tech to increase quality, decrease cycle time, increase profits and be able to export to other global markets. I am hoping that Canada’s manufacturers will start investing in robots and automation, make decisions faster and implement quicker.
Claire Fallon is CEO and executive director of the International Society of Automation. Prior to joining ISA, Ms. Fallon held leadership positions with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). A mechanical engineer by training, Ms. Fallon has also worked as a design engineer for Bechtel and served on the appeals board for Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
Lingering supply chain issues as well as geopolitical instability and protectionism, higher costs and market demands for increased environmental and social governance are driving a reduction in the volume of world trade. As manufacturers navigate these and other challenges, many are building more resiliency into their supply chains by reshoring production and focusing on diversification and growth at home.
The International Society of Automation (ISA)’s recently published position paper titled Automation Enables Digital Deglobalization Efforts describes how businesses are seeking to mitigate uncertainty in this climate. Manufacturers are using automation technology and techniques – implemented
by knowledgeable and skilled automation professionals – to strengthen their supply chains, improve operational agility and help ensure a more competitive future. For example, flexible manufacturing principles allow companies to adapt quickly to shifting conditions, such as fluctuating demand, raw material availability and labour shortages. Adaptability will be key in 2025 and beyond.
Supply chain disruptions have been common over the last few years. While Deloitte reports that average lead times for production materials have improved since 2022, they are still elevated from pre-pandemic levels. As information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) converge, the supply chain itself has also drawn more attention from cybercriminals – and new vulnerabilities are discovered constantly.
In 2025, securing supply chain infrastructure will be a top priority. Without robust security measures such as those outlined in the ISA/IEC 62443 series of standards, threat actors can infiltrate vendor networks and gain access to industrial control systems, endangering machinery, proprietary data and even human lives.
These attacks can pose safety risks, harm the environment, cause regulatory violations and trigger massive economic losses. As threats continue to evolve, manufacturers must prioritize cybersecurity to protect their operations, maintain product integrity and ensure the stability of their supply chains.
Oxford Economics recently surveyed midsized manufacturers and found that more than half believe readying for a technology-driven future is critical for the industry. More than half also prioritize tech integration for competitive advantage.
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) continues to make inroads as manufacturers prepare legacy systems for new technology. Smarter, more connected operations will expand in the next few years. IIoT devices – communicating wirelessly via 5G – can help manufacturers track assets in their supply chain, monitoring their location or productivity levels. Deloitte’s 2024 Future of the Digital Customer Experience survey found that 34 percent of industrial product manufacturers intend to invest in 5G technology over the next one to three years.
According to a Deloitte Digital Maturity Index survey from 2023, 98 percent of surveyed manufacturers – representing four major global economic regions – have started their digital transformation journey. Respondents said key drivers were “cost optimization, operational efficiency, product innovation and improving customer experience.”
Another Deloitte report revealed that manufacturing companies invested 30 percent of their operating budget in technology in 2024, compared with 23 percent in 2023.
attracting and retaining top talent as their biggest challenge. Meanwhile, the World Economic Forum predicted that by this year, automation technologies – including AI and robotics – will have created at least 12 million more jobs than they displaced.
Offering training programs can help boost employee satisfaction and retain top
talent. As manufacturers adopt increasingly advanced automation technologies, they will need a skilled workforce who understands how to integrate them into both new and existing systems. Success in automation is about more than just the latest tech innovations – it’s entirely dependent on the people who implement and manage them. | MA
Companies that have started their digital transformation journeys may use the massive volume of data they generate to help make informed decisions faster. High-quality data is a critical foundation for digital technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twins, and use cases for these innovations will continue to multiply. Predictive maintenance powered by AI can minimize unplanned downtime, while digital twins allow companies to model production scenarios to help optimize efficiency and quality.
Automation brings incredible benefits. However, it relies on people to unlock its full potential.
The demand for knowledgeable automation experts is higher than ever. According to a survey from The Manufacturing Institute, 65 percent of manufacturers cite
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Why tailored enclosures for specialized automation equipment are increasingly popular, the option most don’t know about, and what’s ahead
BY TREENA HEIN
To keep specialized automation equipment running smoothly for long periods, proper enclosure is obviously critical. While standard enclosures are still used in some manufacturing scenarios, custom enclosures have gained massive ground due to their many benefits. Top among these, note experts such as Rittal Canada president André Bousette, are outstanding value for the price and fast delivery.
Bousette explains that custom enclosures generally outlast the equipment inside if they are made correctly by an experienced firm and the materials are properly specified for the manufacturing environment. Simon Davies, general manager at Corptec Newmarket, Ont., adds that “a well-designed enclosure ensures better airflow, cable management and protection from environmental hazards.” Custom enclosures, by design, also maximize available space. “Unlike standard enclosures, which may require workarounds, a tailored solution wraps around existing structures seamlessly,” Davies explains. “This allows for optimal placement of panels and posts, ensuring better accessibility for both production and maintenance needs. Enhanced access to equipment reduces downtime and frustration in the workplace, leading to increased efficiency.” Custom enclosures also provide improved integration with existing systems and avoid the need for modifications of various types down the road, Davis says.
Furthermore, the look of a custom enclosure enhances the overall look of the workplace, in turn enhancing pride, satisfaction and engagement among employees. “We have a comprehensive graphics department,” explains Francois-Olivier Morin, vice president of Graphie in La Pocatière Que., “capable of producing durable decals and membranes for displays or status LED indicators.”
The seals installed in today’s custom enclosure openings have also come a long way, notes Bousette, especially in the case of food and beverage manufacturing, where outstanding seals are required to prevent microbe entry and to protect the enclosed equipment during washdowns.
And of course, all this added value has come a long way over time. “If I look back 30 years ago,” says Bousette, “you had the enclosure, a handle, maybe a light, and a pocket for the machine manual. If there were a lot of wires off the door, you used to use tie wraps with sticky pads that dried out over time, so now we have brackets you can tie the wraps to. You have door stops, better vents, climate control, heat exchangers, better lighting, and the design also makes it easier to facilitate equipment installation.” Mounting and assembly time are typically cut in half compared to off-the-shelf enclosures, according to Morin.
And today, all these benefits are delivered at a low extra cost compared to off-the-shelf options, At Graphie for example, with low-volume orders, the cost of a custom enclosure can be nearly identical to off-the-shelf. “This includes custom dimensions, colours, PEMs, studs and various types of hardware,” says Morin, “to facilitate assembly and enhance the quality of the final product.”
‘From scratch’ versus ‘modified standard’
While the price of a custom enclosure of a given volume is mostly based on the number of access points (with each point requiring specialized hardware and electrical components), Bousette points out there is also a large price difference within the type of customized option chosen.
“To build a custom enclosure, you can do it one of two ways,” he reports. “You can build one or a small batch from scratch, and the costs are very high as there is more up-front design and engineering. But there is a place for that, with a high-volume order or something extremely specialized. The other way is what we at Rittal and many other firms do. You take a finished standard enclosure of the right size, and there are many sizes available, and modify it.” This is a much cheaper route, Bousette notes, a fact that’s not yet well-known within the manufacturing community.
“A sizable portion of the industry doesn’t realize that ‘modified standard’ enclosures are available,” he explains. “There can be some hesitancy about quality for those who
When a standard enclosure isn’t the requirement, it is possible to modify the designs for the ideal enclosure solution. Featured here is a Hammond modified enclosure.CREDIT: HAMMOND MANUFACTURING
have never ordered one before, but like other firms, we have high-level design and machining, so the quality is on par with making it from scratch. In fact, new customers are typically surprised that it’s a modification as it looks like it just came from the factory as standard.” He adds that he has “never, ever had anyone go back to custom enclosures from scratch when they get one of our modified standards.”
DigiKey also offers only modified standard custom enclosures as they are most cost-effective for clients, but DigiKey’s Principal Electronics Technician Steven Dahl also cautions that working with the right company is important. He says local fabrication shops typically don’t guarantee that the order will meet the customer’s approved drawing, and generally, there will be order fallout from working with these shops “as they don’t have the supply to replace any enclosures that run into production issues or do not pass quality control.”
However, looking at turnaround times, Davies notes that ‘from scratch’ orders can often be faster than modifying an off-theshelf unit as there are no ‘loose ends’ in the design phase. “For simpler enclosures, such as a 10x12 enclosure with a single gate and light curtain feature, delivery can be as fast as two weeks,” he explains. “For more complex enclosures like those for robotic cells, they typically require six to eight weeks. These often include special features such as material in/out windows, which demand additional design attention.” Throughout the manufacturing process at Corptec, electrical work is carried out simultaneously to streamline the process and speed up delivery.
Production timelines are also dependent on requested modifications, says Dahl. A few holes in a simple ABS enclosure, for
example, can be produced quickly, whereas modifications in a powder-coated diecast enclosure (requiring powder coating after the modifications) can take much longer to produce. “Another factor that can extend the timeline is silk screening or direct printing,” Dahl reports. “Many enclosure manufacturers that offer modifications can direct-print at the factory while silk-screening is typically outsourced and can extend lead times.”
There are many ways to handle the design process for custom enclosures, but all of them are aimed at meeting customer needs in the most efficient and easy way. Enclosure providers aim for a stress-free and satisfying process from initial discussion to delivery of the finished product. As Bousette explains, “We can do the design virtually, but typically our team members in all major industrial areas of Canada visit the client, talk about needs, go back and do a drawing, and then we go back and forth. Some customers do their own drawing which can be sufficient, or we might do some modifications and produce a finished drawing for approval.”
Morin echoes these observations. “Sometimes clients have a complete enclosure design ready, in which case production follows their specifications,” he says. “Other times, assistance is provided to select the appropriate design and produce a prototype before full production.”
To facilitate fast exploration of options and pricing, DigiKey recently launched a Custom Enclosure Configurator tool.
Like all other aspects of automation, how specialized automated equipment is enclosed will continue to evolve. Currently, for example, Davies explains polycarbonate is now more widely used in custom enclosure construction than wire mesh, despite its higher cost, due to its durability and safety advantages. He also notes that ventilation tech (specifically, advancements in filter systems) continues to ensure better air quality and cooling for enclosed equipment.
In addition, “cable management has become more accessible,” says Davies, “with a variety of off-the-shelf solutions, while enclosure accessibility options have expanded significantly. Swing, slide, vertical, bifold, and pneumatic doors are now available, with advanced electrical interlocks to suit diverse applications.” | MA
BY JACK KAZMIERSKI
The old adage, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” certainly applies to manufacturing.
Legacy systems, including older PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, and non-networked machinery have long been the backbone of industrial operations. However, as manufacturing continues to evolve, and as companies see the benefits of leveraging data, legacy systems start to show their shortcomings.
“These legacy systems have been in place forever and typically, they were meant to be closed systems,” says Tyler Burke, product manager of industry management and automation with Phoenix Contact Canada. “Now, because of digitization, people are slowly accepting the idea that we can pull more data out and then use that data to make better decisions.”
In a perfect world, “pulling data” out of legacy systems would be as simple as plugging them in and flipping a switch. In the real world, the process is much more complicated.
“You can’t simply connect it to your IT [Information Technology] system,” says Burke. “You need a level of security and all the protocols in place. So in general, you need to isolate your control system from everything else, and then you need to have a device that can talk to the control system and relay it to higher-level systems.”
Even if you could connect legacy systems directly to the Internet, Burke says it would not be advisable to do so. “Despite the fact that PLCs today have a lot more security and more functions, it’s still not a good idea to connect them directly to the Internet. You need a middleman,” he says.’’
This middleman is where edge computing comes into play. “It makes a lot of sense because it helps you shore up your security gaps,”
Edge computing allows legacy systems to be connected without exposing manufacturing operations to cybersecurity risks.PHOTO: PHOENIX CONTACT
Burke says. “So when you have legacy systems that were never meant to be connected, with edge computing, you can do so without exposing yourself to cybersecurity risks.”
When it comes to cybersecurity, Burke says that IT should be your first line of defence. The problem, however, is that some try to make a direct connection, wherein they essentially run a single cable from their machine to their IT system. “The problem here is that anytime you have an outage, you have to call IT, and IT prioritizes security over everything else, whereas with operations, we prioritize availability. We just want to make
sure the system is still running.”
So rather than make this direct connection, with edge computing you have an edge device sitting between two firewalls – an IT firewall and an OT firewall. “So, an edge device is essentially a data aggregator or data concentrator that takes all the data from the machine level, and feeds it up into the IT level,” Burke says. The result is a system with three network levels: machine, edge and the cloud. However, the machine never talks to the cloud, and IT never talks directly to the machine. Instead, the machine talks to the edge device, and the edge device sends data up the chain.
While edge computing is a must for cybersecurity reasons, it can also help an organization save money in the long run. “Your network is a triangle,” says Burke. “You’re always trying to push data from lots of individual devices up to some higher level, and then you hit the Internet, which then goes out to the world. While you could have devices, like PLCs, that directly push data into a cloud system, doing so would be very expensive.”
Burke explains that when it comes to the cloud, your cost is based on how many tags you have. So in this case, an edge computing device acts as a data concentrator, which helps reduce the number of tags, and in turn, the cost.
“You can basically use similar tags to make a decision,” Burke says. “So if the health of 10 machines is good, maybe you’re just sending one tag saying ‘Health is all good.’ And now you’re only paying for one tag instead of 10. This means you’ll want to make some local decisions, because every time you push data into a cloud server, you’re going to be paying some type of service fee. So, if you can limit how much you’re doing, that would save you a lot of money.”
Burke says that there’s another compelling reason to invest in edge computing: network latency. “Let’s say you have 10 machines with numerous sensors collecting data,” he says. “You might have to push large volumes of data up, and if you’re doing that constantly, your IT department is not going to be very happy with you, because
there are a lot of connections that they don’t have control over.”
The flow of this data becomes much more manageable with an edge device as the middleman. “When you have an edge device,” Burke says, “you can collect the data in a local database and then push that data up to the cloud. So you’re going to have a local copy of the data, with the added benefit that if your internet connection were to ever go down, the edge device would still have all your data stored locally.”
Upgrading legacy systems so that they can collect and share data doesn’t have to be expensive, and it doesn’t have to take place in one big jump. It can be done on a stepby-step basis, Burke explains. Before you can upgrade, however, you’ll need to identify the reasons why you want to do so, and how edge and cloud computing will benefit your facility. Once you understand your goals, you’ll be better able to decide which machines should be connected first.
Burke says that his customers typically want to start by improving or controlling one of four major areas of concern. The first is energy efficiency. By automating when certain machines are powered up or powered down within a manufacturing facility, you can cut energy costs. If you don’t need your equipment running 24/7, then it makes sense to plan accordingly and power up only when you have to.
Another compelling reason to upgrade is remote monitoring of machine cycles. If you know how many times a particular piece of equipment usually runs before it typically breaks down or needs maintenance, you can harness that data and preemptively schedule maintenance right before it’s needed, thus limiting downtime.
Custom manufacturing is the third compelling reason to upgrade. “We’re getting into this day and age where people want things customized for different purposes,” says Burke. “For example, we just had a customer who needed a cable in a very specific length. So the more data you have, the more control you have, which means you can change a set point on a machine dynamically, and then have it revert afterwards.”
Finally, there’s smart networking. “Although our networks are getting bigger and bigger, we want to make sure things are automated so that we don’t have to constantly manage everything,” says Burke. “You don’t want to double the amount of data that’s coming out of your machines and then have to hire more people to support it. The goal is to use data to make better decisions while limiting the need for a person to have to constantly monitor and interact with that data.”
Despite their longevity and reliability, legacy systems have their inherent shortcomings. Properly implemented, edge devices and cloud computing can benefit manufacturers in many ways, bringing older equipment into the modern manufacturing world. | MA
BY SUKANYA RAY GHOSH
Maple Advanced Robotics, a Canadian company, was named the winner of the Hannover Messe Robotics Award for 2025 at the event’s press preview on February 19, for its Autonomous Adaptable Robot System –AARS. The award honours companies that are driving pioneering developments in industry with their robot-assisted automation and logistics solutions.
The company’s award-winning AARS project is an AI-driven robotics platform for fast and code-free programming. This is made possible by advanced 3D scanning, automatic robot path generation and an intuitive graphical flowchart interface that eliminates the need for coding and CAD files. It breaks free from traditional teaching and offline programming constraints, enhancing the adaptability and
intelligence of robots, improving user-friendliness, and achieving flexibility, convenience and high efficiency. In addition, the AARS platform includes features that compensate for deviations, ensuring a consistent level of quality.
Dr. Yi Li, executive vice-president and co-founder of Maple Advanced Robotics, explains that the technology has many applications, such as sanding, spraying, inspection and welding, to name a few.
The development of AARS was inspired and supported by Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen) about four years ago, shares Dr. Li. NGen’s strategic investment of nearly $1.3 million and its mentorship and strategic guidance facilitated the development, refinement and market readiness of the system.
The robotics company partnered with Magna’s Stronach Centre for Innovation alongside the University of Waterloo, University of Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University to develop AARS. During the development journey, AARS has been implemented in Magna through several projects, including sanding and inspection. The usability of the system has already been proven through these projects.
For example, explains Dr. Li, the sanding process in manufacturing is an important middle process which is not a very comfortable job. He notes that often, in many instances, since the process is difficult, manufacturers outsource the production to other countries. He adds that using AARS for sanding with robotics can actually help maintain this process locally. Dr. Li notes that in automotive manufacturing, many hard exterior components require finishing before being sent for spraying and painting. Quality sanding provides a good foundation to achieve superior paint quality.
Dr. Li adds that doing good programming on the freeform surface involves a lot of effort. Maple Advanced Robotics, therefore, developed an algorithm to analyze the freeform surface from the cloud directly and generate a highly precise trajectory to achieve Class A finishing quality.
Dr Li notes that this system is automated and does not require the involvement of an experienced engineer. “The algorithm does the job, generates the trajectory and sends it to the robot to run directly. This will give automation the push to the next level, which is autonomy,” he says.
The sanding application is not limited to the automotive sector. Dr. Li shares that the company applied this technology in the woodworking industry in kitchen cabinet manufacturing, which involves high mix, low volume production.
Dr. Li shares that when introducing the robotic sanding application to a woodworking shop, the first feedback the owner shared was that no one in their company knew how to program a robot. Maple Advanced Robotics was able to showcase how its programming-free robot was able to generate a path by itself.
Dr. Li shares that Maple Advanced Robotics has also developed a new product called Place&Go. A panel can simply be placed on a table and the robot, equipped with advanced overhead 3D cameras, generates a path to do the sanding.
“It is interesting to see that the technology came from the well-developed automation sector and it can go to a bigger market like woodworking,” says Dr. Li.
The system
Discussing the AARS system and its components, Dr. Li explains that the robot, which is an action part, has traditionally required engineers to provide the commands to guide where it should go and what it should do.
AARS also features 3D vision, a popular technology in recent times that is usually used in pick-and-place applications where the robot grabs boxes or parts.
“We are using 3D vision as our sensor. It’s just like how we as human beings use 3D vision as our eyes. Our software, which is the AI algorithm, is like a brain. The sanding parameters are like the experience of hand signature. With this combination – the 3D vision, our AI software plus the robot – we’ve built a human-like operator with robot and machines,” explains Dr. Li.
This system, he adds, lets the robot generate
the trajectory and motions on its own with physical constraints. The robot, for example, will not use extreme force when sanding wood panels.
“It knows the contact force, and it knows how hard the wood will be. The force setting will be different for the hardwood and MDF (medium-density fibreboard). This is what we call physically informed AI, which is the use of physical information as the constraint to train the AI models and make the robots
function like experienced operators. This is how we are blending into this automation ecosystem,” explains Dr. Li.
Maple Advanced Robotics’ AARS comes with the controller, the software and the process know-how in the software. This gives users an easy-to-use workflow, says Dr. Li. Users will be able to set up the robot in half of the time for the required application. For example, a sanding application can be set up in a few hours. This significantly reduces the learning curve.
The experience, as shared by one of the company’s customers, was like using a LEGO Technic kit.
Dr. Li. shares that the set-up process involved tightening the screws as instructed, calibrating the camera and begin sanding.
“This felt impossible before they considered using a smart robotics system. In a day, they can go from opening the box to using the system. This includes training to use the system. From the point-of-view of the user experience, this is why AARS really shines,” says Dr. Li. | MA
Manufacturing AUTOMATION: What inspired you to pursue a career in automation, specifically in AI?
Humera Malik: Before founding Canvass AI, I came from the world of IoT sensors and infrastructure deployment. I quickly realized that while industrial companies were great at collecting data, they struggled to unlock its value. The sheer volume and velocity of data made it difficult to access and utilize, forcing them to rely on external consultants just to make sense of their own information. I set out to change that and Canvass AI was born.
MA: Can you walk us through a typical day at work for you?
HM: I’ve yet to have two days that are the same – so there isn’t a typical day for a life in an entrepreneur. But that’s what makes each day exciting and motivates me to keep pushing forward.
MA: How has the automation industry evolved since you started, and where do you see it heading?
HM: Over the years, there has been a shift from automation being focused on assets to now being focused on how automation and AI can support human augmentation. With the rise of co-pilots and AI agents, AI is no longer seen as a scary threat but instead, as a valuable tool that can help humans get more things done in less time so that they can deliver more value to the business.
MA: Have you noticed any significant changes in the representation of women in this industry over the years?
HM: Across industries – not just manufacturing – women have made significant strides and are breaking barriers every day. However, there’s still progress that needs to be made. Last year, women held only 10% of Fortune 500 CEO positions, and
in automation and manufacturing, that number is even lower. To truly shift the balance, we need greater representation at every level of the industry.
MA: How do you balance the technical and leadership aspects of your job?
HM: I think that AI has blurred the lines between what used to be traditional ‘technical’ and ‘leadership’ buckets of being CEO. Being technically savvy is no longer optional. To stay ahead, leaders must embrace technology or risk being left behind.
MA: Can you share a particularly proud accomplishment or project you’ve worked on?
HM: From a technical standpoint, one of our most recent highlights is the work that CanvassAI did with OpenAI. It has opened new avenues and opportunities for us to bring GenAI to the industrial masses as
Humera Malik is a leading voice in AI, focussed on how it can propel growth, accelerate innovation and augment human expertise.
well as expand into other vertical industries. On the customer side, I’m driven by the real value that our customers are achieving from using our AI platform. It’s gone from a nice to have to ‘I need to have’ in their everyday operations.
MA: What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in automation and AI?
HM: Invest in your personal research and development. Continuously learn and get outside of your comfort zone to get ahead. And make sure to find a peer group that will help you thrive.
MA: What role has mentorship and networking played in your career, and how have they helped you succeed?
HM: One thing I learned early on in my career is that you can’t do it alone. You need a find your tribe of people who will celebrate your successes as well as provide support during challenging times. You’ll find your tribe will come from different walks of life so I encourage anyone starting out in their career to sign up to networks, like Women in AI, or attend events as you never know where you will meet and connect with the people who will be your inner circle as your career advances. | MA
Global market intelligence firm Interact Analysis recently released a report stating that the global motion controls market contracted by seven percent in revenue terms during 2024. This reportedly follows a significant period of growth for the motion controls market between 2020 and 2023. Soft manufacturing demand was the primary cause of the decline.
The motion controls market saw widespread over-ordering and overstocking in 2021 and 2022. This was due to the COVID-19 pandemic driving supply chain disruptions and causing shortages. The result was panic buying, where customers placed big orders to secure the products they needed. This has led to market-wide destocking since mid-2023, as companies altered their normal ordering habits instead of choosing to use stock accumulated during the period of panic buying. Channel partners and customers halted orders with the aim of reducing their inventories, and this contributed greatly to the 2024 market contraction.
The Americas performed best, although the market still declined by 1.1 percent in 2024. After a period of decline, it is projected the Americas will be the highest-growing region in 2025, with an expected motion controls market growth rate of 3.5 percent.
Dawson discusses how motion control will influence the automation and manufacturing space.
Manufacturing AUTOMATION: With the rise in mobile robots and small payload industrial robots, how do you see motion control technology evolving to support these trends in manufacturing automation?
Tim Dawson: We have already seen motion control technology evolve with the development of integrated motors and drives specifically tailored to AGVs/ AMRs. We also expect to see an increase in ultra-low voltage motors and drives (< 60 v) to accommodate these predominantly battery-driven (24 v or 48 v) applications.
MA: How do you think the ongoing developments in industrial automation will
“ Amid heavy destocking, we have seen significant declines in the revenues of motion control suppliers despite seeing only slight declines in manufacturing production,” says Tim Dawson.
influence the demand for motion control in different manufacturing sectors?
TD: Motion control is a component present in many of the key technologies looking to create a more robust supply chain i.e. AGVs/ AMRs, humanoid robots, and industrial robots. Continued scalability of motion control products helps bring down the overall cost of these technologies, helping to create a more robust supply chain.
MA: Can you elaborate on the importance of adapting motion control technology to more flexible and scalable automation systems, especially in response to fluctuating manufacturing demand?
TD: Decentralization is a trend that is growing in importance within the motion
controls market. Space is increasingly at a premium for manufacturers (both on the factory floor and in control cabinets) and decentralization can help reduce the space taken up by automation systems. Additionally, there is a growing need to create more flexible conveying lines. In this regard, modularity can be achieved through decentralizing motion systems, enabling greater flexibility.
MA: How do you see AI and machine learning technologies integrating with motion controls in industrial automation to improve operational efficiency?
TD: In the short term, the most likely use case for AI in the motion controls space is predictive maintenance. While there have been questions surrounding the feasibility of predictive maintenance in recent years, the advent of AI will accelerate it becoming a reality. Ultimately, the pace at which AI is evolving is so fast that predicting the most likely use cases over the long term is challenging. It is possible that entirely new applications for the technology, previously unheard of, will emerge over the next few years.
MA: What are the key drivers behind the projected growth in the Americas motion controls market in 2025, and how can companies capitalize on this growth?
TD: At the time our forecast was produced (early November) our expectation was that economic uncertainty would diminish in the U.S. after the presidential election and investment into manufacturing would be strong. However, while key indicators suggest a return to growth in the North American market, we believe there is now a risk to our forecast from the recent return of inflation and the uncertain political environment. The U.S. manufacturing sector was the first to bounce back from the destocking trend, which plagued the market in 2024. As a result, its return to growth is expected to come much sooner than in other regions. Companies that prioritize the region amid struggling European and APAC motion control sectors are likely to see more organic growth in 2025. | MA
High-speed sensor with extended sensitivity in NIR wavelengths
Teledyne e2v has introduced Lince5M NIR, a high-speed CMOS image sensor. Leveraging Teledyne e2v’s advanced imaging technologies, this new sensor is designed to deliver enhanced performance in both visible and near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths. The Lince5M NIR is a monochrome image sensor with a resolution of 5.2 megapixels (2,560 x 2,048). Building on the established Lince5M, this new sensor combines high-speed capabilities and high Quantum Efficiency (35 percent at 850 nm) in both visible and nearinfrared wavelengths. It achieves a high frame rate of 250 fps (full resolution, 12-bit ADC), using the 24 LVDS output channels. Lince5M NIR delivers superior performance for demanding applications that require sharp images at very high-speeds and in low-light conditions, such as motion capture, sport analytics,
industrial metrology, retinal imaging, and intelligent traffic monitoring. Designed around Teledyne e2v’s 5 µm global shutter pixel, this image sensor offers a dynamic range of 55 dB in standard mode and over 100 dB in High Dynamic Range mode, making it perfect for observing high-contrast scenes.
Lince5M NIR is housed in a 28 x 28 mm 181 PGA (Pin-Grid Array) ceramic package and features a 1-inch optical format compatible with a broad range of C-mount lenses, for costeffective camera integration. With an operating temperature range from -40°C up to 125°C, the Lince5M NIR is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
teledynevisionsolutions.com
Tolomatic’s new Drive Integration Tool combines the motor, drive, feedback and connection information across a wide range of manufacturers with Tolomatic’s own servo linear actuator specifications. By consolidating this data, Tolomatic reportedly offers a straightforward solution for engineers to ensure compatibility between servo linear actuators and automation control architecture and simplify commissioning. This online
tool’s simple interface further increases its usability, providing engineers with three simple steps to arrive at a suggested cable connector for use with their system. The Drive Integration Tool also outputs the motor and feedback data you need to commission the system along with a pin connection readout graphic and data sheet which can be downloaded as either a PDF or Excel file. tolomatic.com
With the compact servo amplifiers PMC SI6 and the servo amplifiers PMC SC6 from Pilz, drive-integrated safe motion can now be implemented up to the highest level of safety PL e. This is ensured by the safety functions integrated directly within the drive. Motion monitoring functions are available for this purpose. Users can combine these individually to obtain a flexible, scalable safety solution. With this driveintegrated solution, the error reaction can be adapted flexibly, which reduces machine downtimes. The open drive solution can be used independently of the motor type and feedback system. Even with the most varied requirements, plant and machinery can run with maximum productivity and high availability. Both servo amplifiers have safe motion functions in accordance with EN
61800-5-2 up to PL e, as well as motion monitoring functions. They guarantee safety by evaluating internal system variables. A second encoder is not necessary to achieve SIL 3 or PL e. The solution via just one standard feedback system reduces the overall costs. The safe motion functions include numerous safe stop functions, motion functions, and braking functions such as SS1, SS2, SOS and SLS. Using FSoE (FailSafe over EtherCAT), users can quickly and easily integrate this solution into the machine’s safety concept. FSoE also ensures safe cross-communication between the drives. The connection via FSoE means less wiring and increases security as the application is set up. pilz.com
A new ‘turbo mode’ With TwinCAT Core Boost, Beckhoff is supercharging its TwinCAT 3 runtime and multicore processing power with turbo mode. TwinCAT Core Boost reportedly increases the computing performance of individual real-time or user-mode cores by up to 50 percent. Now, systems can achieve maximum performance, adapt to unique application requirements, and possibly use lower cost CPUs while tapping into extra performance for specific tasks as needed. TwinCAT software’s multi-thread capabilities have enabled applications to be distributed across multiple cores. TwinCAT Core Boost takes that to the next level by enabling users to configure the clock frequency of individual processor cores. The clock rate per core can be defined for real-time transmission and user-mode applications. Individual cores
can operate permanently and in real-time using this “turbo mode.” TwinCAT Core Boost monitors the permitted power consumption and temperature of each processor core (and of the overall system) to ensure reliable operation even when turbo mode is used. TwinCAT Core Boost currently supports all Beckhoff Industrial PCs with Intel Core I processors from the 11th generation onwards. beckhoff.com
Cable/hose drag chains and accessories
AutomationDirect has added Murrplastik MP10 series cable/ hose drag chains and chain brackets to its selection of wire and cable management products. Drag chains route cables/hoses to moving components and help to extend cable/hose life, provide protection for personnel and reduce equipment downtime and repair costs. The MP10 series is built from rugged polyamide
(PA) and is available in various widths with support for cables up to 8mm in diameter. MP10 series cable/hose drag chains feature open slots that allow cables and hoses to be added or replaced after installation. In addition, they can easily be extended or shortened by adding or removing chain links, are available with one, two, or three chambers to segregate cables/hoses within the same chain, and have end brackets that provide secure mounting points. automationdirect.com
Advanced 4-axis delta robot for high-speed pick and place
Igus has introduced the DR1000 four-axis delta robot that combines high speed and precision for demanding industrial applications. Featuring a 1,000-millimeter working diameter and an additional rotary axis that provides four degrees of freedom, the DR1000 allows robots to grip and orient components. Its pick
rate of 96 picks per minute makes it particularly desirable for end-of-line pick-and-place operations as well as conveyor belt picking or stacking tasks in three-dimensional spaces. The DR1000 delta robot has a modular design for easy integration into existing automation systems. In addition, this versatile unit can also be equipped with a gripper or suction cup to execute complex tasks and can be customized to meet hard-to-satisfy requirements. Users can take advantage of igus’ optional Robot Control (iRC) software for quick and easy deployment. Integrated into the control system, the license-free software features an intuitive interface and a uniform operating concept that reduces planning time and speeds up commissioning. For users with their own control systems, each axis can be operated with individual motor controllers, such as the igus dryve D1 motor controller. igus.com
Amada Weld Tech has integrated cutting-edge blue
laser technology into its suite of micro welding technologies. This innovation leverages the unique properties of blue diode lasers to deliver superior performance in welding highly reflective materials, notably copper. Traditional infrared lasers, such as Nd:YAG and fibre lasers, emit light in the 10641070 nanometer range, which is reportedly less efficiently absorbed by materials like copper, leading to increased energy consumption and potential processing challenges. In contrast, blue lasers operate at a wavelength of approximately 450 nanometers, providing better absorption of the radiation for materials like copper. Amada Weld Tech’s blue laser systems offer power levels ranging from up to 1500 Watts, and with capabilities extending up 4000 Watts for industrial applications. amadaweldtech.com
BY PAUL HOGENDOORN
Paul Hogendoorn is a serial entrepreneur that has built multiple manufacturing and manufacturing technology companies. He has been a regular contributing columnist for 15 years. For more insight or information from Paul on related topics, please contact paul@tpi-3.ca or visit TPI-3.ca
When times are stable, manufacturing businesses run with predictable efficiency. That’s not to say great efficiency or even good efficiency, but relative predictability. And, as most of us are aware, as a nation, our overall productivity levels are comparatively low, and they are falling.
A famous quote attributed to Winston Churchill suggests we should “never let a good crisis go to waste.” All the uncertainty related to tariffs and the possibility of new governments with new directions and new policies, can be viewed as such. It can be seen and interpreted as a crisis. When deemed a crisis, it can be the catalyst for a lot of change. And a lot of change is overdue.
Two things I believe to be true:
1) Change doesn’t come easy at any time and is often most unwelcome in good times. 2) It’s far better to focus your energy on things within your control than on things outside of your control.
With these two things in mind, I’ll share some thoughts and perspectives from several groups of business leaders that I consider thought leaders.
Each month, I have the privilege of chairing several chapters of Innovators Alliance, a peer-to-peer network of CEOs and founders of small and medium-size businesses in Ontario. About 50 percent of them are manufacturers. “Uncertainty” is not new to the people in these meetings. As entrepreneurs of private enterprises, they know there are very few guaranteed or assured outcomes, and success is not achieved by mitigating risks but by taking them, and not by evading challenges and avoiding problems but by facing them and solving them.
Here are some of the key takeaways I can share.
Focus on the things you can control and don’t waste energy and time on things you have no control over. It’s sometimes easier to say than it is to do, but emotional energy spent on things outside of your control is time and energy not spent on creative, constructive and positive things you could have done to improve your business.
Productivity is a challenge regardless of tariff uncertainties, and there are great efficiencies to be gained through the effective deployment of technologies – in the plant and in the office. Improvements in productivity not only offset risks in challenging times but also prepare the company with increased production capacity for the following future times of growth.
Educate yourself on the export basics. There are a lot of details that may not have mattered too much before, that now might make a major difference – and don’t count on your broker to know and do what’s best for you. “FOB,” for instance, may have seemed an innocuous term on your quotations, POs or invoices before, but it makes a big difference now as it declares who is responsible for paying any duties or tariffs before the product is cleared at the border and released to you, or your customer. It could be money you pay out of your pocket months before you try to get it back from your customer. Commercial invoicing practices are also an important way to make sure any tariffs are only applied to the appropriate value of the actual material product being exported. When no or small duties and tariffs were applied, the mistakes were not very costly and you may not have even noticed, but now they can become very costly if you do it wrong.
Company culture matters – and in times of uncertainty, more than ever. Slowdowns provide opportunities to upskill and cross-train employees, with some companies adopting
programs aimed at elevating “core competencies” – everything from understanding finance (personal and corporate) to health and well-being (mental, emotional, physical, even spiritual). A healthy, motivated and agile workforce is a great competitive advantage, and it is a key differentiating factor for most prevailing companies.
Make sure your voice is heard as a manufacturer and employer of many. Although most manufacturers prefer to not get too involved or to leave it to associations they may be a part of, this a great time to invite your MP or MPP to your plant for a tour or a photo-op, and to educate them on what policies affect you most.
Three things to remember in this regard:
1) This is in your control, and you can make a difference.
2) There are many groups loudly and persistently seeking to influence them in ways that are not beneficial to the manufacturing sector or your company, and 3) We get the governments we deserve, especially if we leave it to others to educate and influence the next elected government.
Focus. Productivity. Knowledge. Culture. Voice. Five things within your control today; five things that can strengthen your company for the future. | MA
If you are the CEO of an Ontario-based manufacturing company and are interested in knowing more about Innovators Alliance, please visit innovators.org
TUESDAY, JUNE 3, 2025
WHY ATTEND CALS25?
• Network with liked-minded manufacturing leaders
• Learn from an automation-focused agenda curated specifically for manufacturing leaders
• Participate in interactive “ask the expert” breakout sessions
• Explore tabletop displays showcasing the latest automation products and services
• Connect with peers to forge partnerships for future collaboration
• Enjoy breakfast and lunch (included for all attendees)
