The Canvas — A Blueprint for Custom Automation

Background

Manufacturing clients often face uncertainty when investing in custom automation — whether systems will integrate seamlessly, perform reliably, and deliver measurable value on the floor. The challenge was to create a tangible, working example that demonstrates Foth’s full lifecycle approach while protecting client confidentiality.

The Canvas is a one-of-a-kind custom automation system developed by Foth’s Serial 1 Automation team to demonstrate how complex ideas can be transformed into fully integrated, high-performance machinery. Built entirely in-house from concept through commissioning, the system showcases Foth’s ability to deliver practical, real-world automation solutions, not just theoretical designs.

Approach

The Serial 1 Automation group designed and built The Canvas from a blank slate as a fully integrated automation system. The machine captures a digital image and recreates it using more than 23,000 beads, precisely placed through highly coordinated motion and high-speed actuation. The entire process is completed in approximately two minutes, demonstrating exceptional speed, precision, and control.

Key solution elements include:

• Integrated, multi-disciplinary engineering: Mechanical, electrical, structural, and controls engineering were developed cohesively—not as disconnected components.
• Advanced validation and simulation: FEA, motion simulation, and thermal/fluid modeling were used to reduce risk and validate performance prior to fabrication.
• End-to-end development process: Concepting, design, prototyping, fabrication, integration, and testing were executed within one continuous workflow.

Results

The Canvas demonstrates how a fully integrated approach leads to: