Recent years have undoubtedly highlighted the growing importance of industrial automation amid labor shortages, supply chain issues, and disruptions related to COVID-19. However, the demand for automation technologies was primed for growth regardless, as businesses of all types seek out a means to improve production efficiency and deliver higher production rates to meet customer needs and keep pace with competitors.

While robots are likely the first component that comes to mind when automation systems are discussed, these systems are comprised of several different types of technologies, including machine vision. Pairing machine vision technologies with robots creates a flexible automation system with capabilities that go far beyond the bounds of performing preprogrammed and repeatable tasks. With machine vision, robots can be deployed for a wide selection of tasks, including pick and place (Figure 1), palletizing and depalletizing, flexible inspection, and automated assembly. As machine vision technologies advance, automation systems — and businesses around the world — are reaping the benefits. For example, 3D imaging, artificial intelligence (AI) software, and industrial computing have all seen notable developments in recent years. In fact, these technologies are often integrated together into systems that perform new tasks across a range of industries.