3 Common Examples of Industrial Automation
Last updated on February 11th, 2026 at 08:40 pm
Numerous examples of industrial automation allow manufacturers to achieve output at a higher and more consistent level with increased efficiency and speed. In recent years, industrial automation has been seamlessly integrated and adapted into production processes in countless industries, effectively carrying out repetitive and mechanical tasks with precision and reliability.
Automotive manufacturing, microelectronic assembly, food and beverage processing, pharmaceuticals, and precision medical equipment assembly are but a handful of industries that have realized the benefits of automation in production. More than simply a catchall phrase, the integration of ‘industrial automation’ in production processes uses technological advances such as robotics and computer software that have radically changed how manufacturers do business.
Industrial Automation’s Role in Automated Systems
Common examples of industrial automation should not be confused with implementing an industrial automated system. Simply put, manufacturers can choose from a variety of industrial automation systems to meet production goals. However, each is composed of and relies on, if only partially, industrial automated solutions to operate.
The automated system manufacturers use would relate to the type of production the company is engaged in. For example, fixed automation is a system where automated production processes and assembly are preset to produce a single product. Programmable automation allows manufacturers to change equipment configurations and operational sequences using process-specific programs. Other industrial automation systems include flexible automation, robotic process automation (RPA), factory automation, and process automation. In each of these industrial systems, automated technology is employed in production.
Here then, are 3 common examples of industrial automation that could be applied to a given automated manufacturing system and how such emerging technologies allow companies to improve efficiency and remain competitive:
3 Common Examples of Industrial Automation
1. Machine Vision
Machine vision is an advanced, integrated, imaging-based custom automation inspection and analysis technology that manufacturers use to increase system productivity and production. The computerized, robotic guidance system is used for various production-line applications and manufacturing processes. The system consists of one or more cameras that capture images of products. The sensors process the images for visual inspection and then convey the results to system operators for further analysis and action.
From farming and fabrication to manufacturing and medical applications, machine vision technology is used across industries to organize and manage day-to-day production processes. The technology can monitor crops for pest control and harvesting, manage assembly-line processes and real-time inventory control for product tracking and traceability to ensure regulatory compliance, and inspect parts and products for quality control.
2. Robotic Picking, Sorting, and Packaging Solutions
Integrating robotic automationin industrial processes is now used for diverse and complex applications. Automation in materials handling greatly streamlines picking, sorting, and packaging processes on production lines and in fulfillment warehouses. Deploying industrial robotic technologies in picking, sorting, and packaging processes improves operational efficiency, reliability, and productivity while minimizing human error. On production lines, automated machines sort, pick, and place parts and components for assembly. Automated applications in warehouses can track inventory movement from receipt through shipment. Substantial warehouse processes can benefit from automation, including bin tracking, cycle counting, order picking, sorting, packing, palletizing, and product coding and labeling for shipping.
3. CNC Machine Automation
Though CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining has been in use since the 1940s, the integration of automation systems enables manufacturers to produce parts and components with greater precision, speed, and repeatability to meet ever-increasing production demands. During production, CNC machines are programmed to control a range of machinery and tools, such as lathes, mills, drills, and routers, to produce parts. Once automated, CNC machine processes can use multiple tools to simplify production. As more 3D printing machines are deployed on factory floors, automated CNC machining has proven essential for surface finishing 3D-printed products. Whether for prototyping or mass production, CNC automation is an essential technology that can increase manufacturing capacity while improving speed and efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What industries does EAM serve?
EAM supports a wide range of industries, including packaging, medical devices, electronics, automotive, consumer goods, and small parts manufacturing. Each solution is engineered around the specific requirements of your production environment.
What types of automation systems does EAM provide?
We design and build custom automation systems, including labeling and source-tagging equipment, conveyors, product-handling systems, vision inspection systems, pick-and-place automation, packaging machinery, and fully integrated production lines.
Does EAM provide support after installation?
Yes. We offer installation support, training, maintenance, troubleshooting, remote diagnostics, and emergency service to minimize downtime and protect your investment.
How does EAM ensure system reliability and quality?
Every system is engineered and built with a strong focus on durability, simplicity, and long-term performance. Our in-house engineering process and hands-on experience allow us to maintain quality control from design through final commissioning.
Contact the Automation Experts at EAM, Inc.
EAM is a leader in custom-engineered industrial automation products, support, and development. Whether integrating custom automated machinery or equipment, we work with companies to deliver the automated solutions they need to improve quality, productivity, and competitiveness in their markets. Contact us today for more information on how EAM can help your company develop automated solutions to meet your production needs.