Discover how Zebra’s Aurora 2D VGR Assistant makes vision-guided robotics simple, fast, and accessible for manufacturers of any size. Learn how cobots can see, adapt, and automate tasks with ease—bringing the future of automation within your reach today.

What if giving your robots the power of vision was no longer reserved for the largest manufacturers with endless resources? In this episode, we explore how advancements in machine vision—specifically Zebra Technologies’ Aurora 2D VGR Assistant—are breaking down barriers and making vision-guided robotics accessible for businesses of all sizes. Discover how this intuitive, step-by-step software turns complex calibration and coding into simple workflows, enabling cobots to load machines, guide tools, inspect products, and adapt with human-like precision. If you’ve been wondering whether vision guidance is realistic for your team, the answer is yes—and the future of automation is within your reach today.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

https://automationdistribution.com/blog/choosing-your-robot-gripper-soft-or-vacuum-the-pros-cons-you-need-to-know/In this episode of Manufacturing Innovations Today, we unpack a deceptively simple yet crucial question in robotic automation: How should your robot grip things?

Whether you're integrating collaborative robots or optimizing a high-speed packaging line, the choice between soft grippers and vacuum grippers can make or break your application.

Join us as we explore:

• What soft and vacuum grippers are—and how they work
• The pros and cons of each gripper type
• Real-world examples of where each one shines
• Key decision factors like payload, precision, and surface texture

If you’re an engineer, integrator, or automation leader looking to improve reliability and throughput on your production line, this episode is for you.

🛠️ Read the full article:

“Choosing Your Robot Gripper: Soft or Vacuum? The Pros & Cons You NEED to Know!”

https://automationdistribution.com/blog/choosing-your-robot-gripper-soft-or-vacuum-the-pros-cons-you-need-to-know/

🎧 Subscribe for more insights into automation technologies that keep you competitive.

Automation Distribution

1-888-600-3080

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step aboard the Kashmir luxury yacht and uncover the hidden automation that keeps it running flawlessly. In this episode, we explore how MSHS Pacific Power Group and Horner Automation engineered a redundant power control system using the XL4 Prime and SmartStix Remote I/O. From seamless generator-to-shore power transfers to intelligent load management, discover how compact, ATEX-certified industrial controls deliver silent comfort, reliability, and efficiency at sea. Whether you’re into marine technology, industrial automation, or just love a good behind-the-scenes engineering story, this episode is your all-access pass to innovation on the open water.

AutomationDistribution.com

1-888-600-3080

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we dive into a surprisingly critical part of modern manufacturing: sanding. From prepping automotive panels to finishing aerospace composites, sanding plays a vital role—but is it still a job best left to humans?

Join us as we explore why robotic sanding is rapidly replacing manual methods in factories worldwide. We’ll cover the key advantages—like consistency, safety, productivity, and cost savings—and how tools like the OnRobot Sander and Universal Robots cobots are reshaping surface finishing.

Whether you’re in metal fabrication, woodworking, or high-precision manufacturing, this episode will help you rethink the role of automation in one of the dirtiest and most demanding jobs on the line.

🛠️ Ready to smooth out your process? Hit play and discover how robotic sanding is polishing the future of industry.

Automation Distribution

1-888-600-3080

https://automationdistribution.com/blog/is-it-better-to-have-a-robot-sander-or-a-human-sander/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover how the next generation of 3D vision is transforming manufacturing, logistics, and quality control. In this episode, we explore Photoneo’s PhoXi 3D Scanner Gen3—a groundbreaking static scene scanner featuring 5.1 MP 3D resolution, integrated RGB color capture, and advanced blue laser technology that handles even the most challenging industrial surfaces.

Join hosts Alex and Taylor as they dive into what makes the Gen3 a game-changer for AI-powered inspection, defect detection, and factory automation. From zero-maintenance calibration to scanning in any lighting (even direct sunlight), this conversation shows why the PhoXi Gen3 is more than a tool—it’s a leap forward for industrial automation.

🎧 Learn how ultra-precise 3D scanning can cut scrap, eliminate rework, and give your production line eyes sharper than ever before.

Shop this 3D Vision system here: https://automationdistribution.com/photoneo-phoxi-3d-scanner/

Tags: 3D Scanning, Machine Vision, Industrial Automation, Quality Control, Photoneo, Robotics, Smart Manufacturing, AI in Industry, Factory Tech

AutomationDistribution.com

1-888-600-3080

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mislabeling isn’t just a small mistake—it’s a silent threat hiding in plain sight on the production floor. In this episode, we unpack the real cost of labeling errors in manufacturing: from product recalls and regulatory fines to damaged brand trust and safety risks.

You’ll learn why “human error” is no longer an acceptable excuse—and how modern manufacturers can eliminate mislabeling by rethinking their processes, embracing automation, and empowering their teams.

We cover:

• Why mislabeling is a system failure, not a fluke
• The four pillars of bulletproof labeling: standardization, automation, process control, and continuous improvement
• How to integrate MES, ERP, and vision systems for real-time label accuracy
• Practical steps to create a culture of labeling excellence on your shop floor

If your labels still rely on manual steps, this episode is your wake-up call. The tools exist to make mislabeling obsolete—now it’s up to us to use them.

🎧 Subscribe now and connect with Automation Distribution to take the next step toward error-free operations.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you unknowingly compromising your industrial safety? This talk explores a common practice: wiring multiple safety switches in series to a safety relay. Discover the hidden danger of "fault masking" and learn how modern diagnostic integrity, smart electronic switches, and safety PLCs are revolutionizing machine safety. Tune in to understand how to build truly robust and reliable safety systems.

AutomationDistribution.com

1-888-600-3080

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Smarter Manufacturing Starts with What You Already Have

Digital transformation doesn't have to start with a complete system overhaul. In this episode, we explore how Modbus monitoring devices are helping manufacturers tap into the power of IIoT using the equipment they already have.

You'll learn how these simple, affordable tools allow real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data-driven decision-making—all without the need for new infrastructure or complicated installs.

If your facility runs on Modbus, you’re already halfway there.

Now it’s time to connect the dots—and unlock a smarter, more efficient operation.

Listen now to discover:

• What Modbus is and why it still matters
• How to modernize without replacing legacy systems
• Practical IIoT applications that scale with your business

🎙️ Like what you hear? Subscribe, share with your team, and visit automationdistribution.com to learn how to get started with IIoT today.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is automation the end of American jobs—or the key to saving them? In this episode, we unpack why collaborative robots (cobots) are essential to the future of U.S. manufacturing. Discover how high turnover, global competition, and reshoring efforts are making robotics adoption not just smart—but necessary. Plus, learn how manufacturers can access federal and state grants to fund their automation journey.

🎧 Like what you hear?

👍 Follow the podcast, share it with your network, and visit https://automationdistribution.com/robots-1/ to start building your smart factory today.

#Manufacturing #Automation #Cobots #Industry40 #WorkforceDevelopment #SmartFactory

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.