Polytechnics are key to bridging industrial needs with cutting-edge research and talent development in Canada’s manufacturing sector.  Sheridan’s session at the 2026 Polytechnic Showcase, Bridging the Productivity Gap: Scalable AI-Robotics Integration through Collaboration, highlighted how AI-driven automation can resolve production bottlenecks while training the next generation of engineers.

Polytechnics Canada connected with Dr. Ethan Shen, Research Manager, Centre for Intelligent Manufacturing, Dr. El Sayed Mahmoud, Professor of Computer Science, and Madushen Paramanathan, Student Research Assistant, to learn more about the polytechnic-industry partnership between Sheridan and Rex Power Magnetics.

Polytechnics Canada: Sheridan’s collaboration with Rex Power Magnetics is highlighted in your session.  How did this polytechnic-industry partnership come about and what advanced manufacturing requirements does it aim to address?

Ethan Shen:  Rex Power Magnetics identified a critical bottleneck in their production line – the stacking of silicon steel transformer laminations – which was a highly manual, repetitive and physically taxing process.  Sheridan’s Centre for Intelligent Manufacturing (CIM) and Rex Power Magnetics decided to form a research partnership with a shared goal of bridging the gap between theoretical AI research and practical floor-level application.

El Sayed Mahmoud: The project aims to address several core advanced manufacturing requirements. This includes achieving alignment consistency that human operators find difficult to maintain over long shifts and transitioning from a variable manual rate to a predictable, 24/7 automated output that strengthens the overall supply chain.

Madushen Paramanathan: I would also add that it reduces the risk of repetitive strain injuries and hazards associated with handling sharp, heavy metal sheets.

PC: Sheridan’s approach to developing an AI-driven, vision-guided robotic cell sounds pretty specific.  How does this project meet the needs of Rex Power Magnetics?  How might what you are learning be applied in other contexts?

ES:  This project meets Rex Power Magnetics’ needs by providing a flexible automation solution.  Unlike most traditional robotics that require parts to be in a fixed position, our AI-driven vision system uses custom reference logic to detect and pick sheets regardless of their orientation.  This is vital for Rex Power, as it allows the robot to handle a mix of parts without constant manual re-programming.

ESM:  The learning from this project has broad applications across the manufacturing sector.  The machine vision techniques we developed to overcome material reflections can be used in any industry handling polished metals, glass or solar panels.  Additionally, the logic used to compensate for material warping can be applied to aerospace or automotive assembly where parts aren’t always “perfect” when they reach the robotic cell.

PC:  How are Sheridan students gaining hands-on experience through this industry partnership and in what ways does it prepare them with job-ready skills for advanced manufacturing careers?

MP: Through this partnership, students like me gained direct experience by designing and building automated solutions for transformer manufacturers, utilizing a sophisticated blend of mechanical, electronic and computer-vision modules.

This partnership offered invaluable exposure to the multidisciplinary nature of engineering, requiring students to integrate diverse technical systems into a single, cohesive solution. By applying theoretical classroom concepts to solve a tangible industrial challenge, we broadened our understanding of the real-world scope and impact of advanced manufacturing. We also expanded our knowledge of core concepts in design, automation and manufacturing.

ESM:  I would add that this process ensures that students like Madushen graduate with the practical skills and technical confidence needed for high-demand engineering careers in the manufacturing industry.

PC:  AI and robotics are often central to conversations about improving Canada’s productivity and driving technology adoption in the business community.  In your view, what prevents the adoption of these technologies and others in the private sector?

ESM:  While the benefits of AI and robotics are clear, several barriers prevent widespread adoption. Many companies want to adopt AI but lack the in-house expertise to develop, maintain or troubleshoot these complex systems.  Partnerships with polytechnics like Sheridan help de-risk this by training the next generation of employees before they even graduate.

ES:  It is worth mentioning that small- to medium-sized businesses often hesitate at the high upfront cost of robotics.  Our project proves that automation, which is adaptable and doesn’t require a total factory overhaul, provides a much clearer and faster ROI.

MS:  Another thing I would highlight is that many private sector processes involve imperfect materials.  Traditional robots fail here, leading to a perception that automation is too rigid.  Projects like ours demonstrate that AI gives robots the eyes and brains to handle real-world situation, making technology adoption a more viable path for traditional businesses.