Automating safety and efficiency in Eaton's paint line operations

Exploring automation technologies to improve workplace safety and streamline manufacturing operations

Colleen McCann and Cris Pop, SMART Centre

About Eaton

Eaton is a global power management company that develops technologies and solutions for electrical, aerospace, hydraulic and vehicle applications. At its Milton facility, the company continues to invest in operational improvements that enhance safety, productivity and efficiency.

The challenge

Manual handling of large and complex components within paint-line operations can create safety risks and place significant physical demands on operators. Eaton sought a practical automation approach that would improve safety while accommodating the wide variety of parts processed through the facility.

Approach

• Evaluated opportunities to automate portions of the paint-line process
• Focused on tasks involving the largest and most challenging components
• Investigated the use of robotic and machine-vision technologies
• Assessed how automation could be integrated alongside existing operator workflows
• Developed recommendations to support future automation planning and investment

Results

• Identified a partial automation strategy focused on high-risk handling tasks
• Demonstrated how robotic and vision-based systems could support paint-line operations
• Reduced reliance on manual handling for larger and more complex components
• Generated recommendations to guide future automation initiatives
• Established a framework for balancing operational efficiency, safety and cost considerations

Why it matters

• Improves workplace safety by reducing manual handling requirements
• Supports more efficient manufacturing processes
• Helps organizations adopt automation in a practical and scalable way
• Reduces physical strain on operators while maintaining operational flexibility
• Provides a roadmap for future investments in advanced manufacturing technologies

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We acknowledge the support of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).