Introducing Weldon’s Plinko Robot: How Dynamic Demo Models Spark Interest in Automation
At Weldon Solutions, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of process improvements to our manufacturing customers through our robotic automation systems.
Weldon Solutions is no stranger to industry trade shows. We have a long-standing tradition of showcasing robotic automation through live demonstrations. To keep things fresh, our engineers are always exploring new ideas for dynamic and engaging demos, ensuring our booth is a standout and keeps attendees returning year after year.
Milton the Candy Robot has been a fan favorite, but for 2025, we’re incorporating a brand-new demonstration: a reimagined robot version of the nostalgic game Plinko (TM Freemantle Media).
When the team began brainstorming concepts for new demonstrations, the goal was simple: design something that blended innovation with familiarity while evoking nostalgia and sparking conversations on the show floor.
Bringing the Plinko demo to life took time and teamwork. It was a multi-year project that evolved through careful planning and phased execution. Once the project was greenlit, a small-scale test rig was built to ensure the design would work. A temporary pause during one of Weldon’s busiest years delayed the project, but when development resumed, our engineers delivered a user-friendly system that is easy to set up and can be used in a variety of venues.
At industry events, we hear from people who are inspired by our approachable, hands-on demos. Often, they share their interest in exploring a career in engineering. We’re proud of our team’s ability to create exciting systems that remove intimidation barriers and spark curiosity.
“These moments make it clear that approachable, hands-on demos can spark interest and remove intimidation barriers—helping people imagine themselves working with this kind of technology. It’s a powerful reminder that even though our main goal was to create an engaging and effective showcase of Weldon’s capabilities, the broader impact may include inspiring the next generation of engineers and technicians.”
Anthony Bowlin, Electrical Engineer
While the Plinko robot is fun and engaging, it goes beyond the simplicity of the game. It highlights many of the core engineering disciplines that are part of our everyday automation work, from EtherNet/IP communication protocols to safety-rated controllers, power distribution design and more.
The Plinko demo design followed the same workflow used in our automation department for client projects and is a small but mighty representation of the technical expertise and attention to detail behind every solution we deliver at Weldon.
Projects like this do more than entertain trade show attendees. They empower our team to focus on intuitive design and user experience. By rethinking how people interact with automation, we continue to push innovation forward in ways that are both powerful and approachable.
“With a demo system like Plinko, engineers are challenged to prioritize the user experience just as much as the system’s physical performance. This requires a shift in mindset: focusing on how people interact with the system, how intuitive it is to use, and how effectively it communicates its purpose.”
Anthony Bowlin, Electrical Engineer
Join us for our biannual Open House on July 17 to see the Plinko robot in action! And explore more Weldon Solutions videos focusing on industrial automation and CNC grinding.
If you’re interested in automating any processes in your manufacturing facility, contact Weldon today to discuss your options and ideas. Our team of experts can engineer automation solutions to meet your specific needs.