Hydrogen 4.0: How IO-Link Sensors Contribute to the Energy Transition
MESSE 2026 Interview with Dr Jochen Köckler, CEO Deutsche Messe
Automation: Why Faster Robots Are No Longer Enough for Industry
Automation: Cold, Clever and Convenient: Setting up a New Deep-Freeze Warehouse
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What do industry and the Olympic Games have in common – apart from the many links through advertising and sponsorship? For a long time, both sectors followed the motto ‘Citius, Altius, Fortius’ in order to achieve success. While the addition of ‘Communiter/Together’ to the Olympic motto went largely unnoticed, a lot has changed in industry in the meantime. In recent years, networks have increasingly formed that are committed to open standards and collaboration, thereby achieving success and driving innovation. A particularly interesting example is presented in the article on page 12: it shows that even industrial companies with high energy requirements can benefit from the intelligent combination of photovoltaics, energy storage and artificial intelligence.
We present another example of the shift in focus in industry towards intelligent solutions on page 20. The goal here is to develop predictive robots that anticipate problems and help avoid costly downtime.
One of the hottest topics in robotics at the moment is humanoid robots, but there is still a lot to be done before they can be widely used. This concerns both their capabilities and regulatory requirements and liability issues. The article on page 18 describes the requirements that motors must meet for use in this area.
I hope you enjoy reading this issue.
KayPetermann
Editor IEN Europe
KayPetermann
Industry News
New Products
Exclusive Interview:
Custom Optics - Trends, Challenges, the Design Process and Quality Assurance.
We spoke to Rob Watkinson from Resolve Optics about overcoming the limitations of off-the-shelf products and achieving the best results.
Energy Efficient Production: Green Hydrogen 4.0: How IO-Link Sensors Contribute to the Energy Transition
Energy Efficient Production: On the Way to Becoming Energy Self-Sufficient The Essen-based company Greenflash, in collaboration with STABL Energy, has implemented an intelligent energy system for a joint customer. The combination of photovoltaics and energy storage using recycled electric car batteries is controlled by the new AI-based software.
Exclusive Interview:
Focus on Key Industrial Technologies
We spoke with Dr. Jochen Köckler, CEO of Deutsche Messe AG, about the upcoming HANNOVER MESSE
Motors &
As the robotics sector steadily moves from science fiction to factory floor, a new generation of humanoid robots is emerging to reshape industry, healthcare, and daily life.
Automation: Why Faster Robots Are No Longer Enough for Industry Automation: AI-Based End-of-Line Inspection for Multi-Chamber Vehicle Lamps
EPC Announces Strategic GaN Technology Agreement with Renesas
Under the comprehensive licensing agreement, Renesas will gain access to EPC’s proven lowvoltage eGaN technology and its established supply-chain ecosystem, accelerating the adoption of high-performance GaN solutions across a broad range of markets. EPC and Renesas will collaborate over the next year to establish internal wafer fabrication capabilities for these products. In addition, Renesas will second-source several of EPC’s popular GaN devices that are already in mass production, enhancing supply-chain resilience for customers. As power electronics designers push for higher efficiency, greater power density, and lower carbon footprints, the physical limits of silicon increasingly constrain performance and miniaturization. Compared with silicon, GaN transistors offer higher efficiency, faster switching speeds, and significantly smaller form factors. These advantages are reshaping power conversion architectures across applications ranging from consumer electronics to AI data centers. “Together, EPC and Renesas are forming a global alliance to deliver state-of-the-art power efficiency, cutting costs in AI data centers and enhancing autonomous systems. This is an exciting moment for our industry and our company,” said Alex Lidow, CEO of EPC.
WIKA Strengthens IIoT Portfolio With Asystom Aquisition
The measurement technology manufacturer and IIoT solution provider WIKA has held a stake in Asystom since 2024. As the majority shareholder, WIKA now intends to play an even more active role in shaping the company’s strategic direction. The global network of WIKA subsidiaries is to strengthen the sales and servicing of the Asystom solutions – for example for installation. WIKA will also use its research and development resources to collaborate with Asystom on the continuous development of its portfolio. Asystom develops advanced sensors and intelligent solutions for the remote monitoring of industrial systems. The company’s core offering is based on embedded acoustic and vibration data processing technologies, combined with AI-driven analytics and diagnostic tools that enable continuous machine health monitoring. Multisensor instruments support signal acquisition, while the IIoT software layer analyses the data and detects deviations using machine learning. This enables companies in the process and manufacturing industries to identify anomalies at an early stage and perform targeted maintenance on their systems. Users can therefore avoid costly failures and organise their maintenance processes much more efficiently.
Softing Industrial Becomes
Certified Partner of INSYS Icom
Softing Industrial is now a certified partner of INSYS icom, succeeding DELTA LOGIC Automatisierungstechnik GmbH, which was acquired by Softing Industrial in April 2025. The partnership brings together two areas of expertise that complement each other perfectly: For more than 40 years, Softing Industrial has stood for modern connectivity solutions in industrial automation and professional OT/IT data integration. Its products ensure the acquisition, aggregation, and provision of machine data via secure and standardized communication protocols such as OPC UA and MQTT. INSYS icom contributes its proven expertise as a manufacturer of industrial routers for secure network connectivity, VPNbased remote access, and the management of industrial router fleets (icom Router Management). The partnership provides users with consistent, clearly structured solutions for all areas of industrial connectivity: Secure connection of distributed systems, structured remote access, and standardized collection and integration of machine data for Industrial IoT and Industry 4.0 applications.
LAPP Group Establishes Subsidiary in Taiwan
On January 1, 2026, LAPP Group has assumed operational responsibility for the cable business previously managed by DKSH Business Unit Technology, Taiwan. With this strategic agreement, LAPP Group establishes its own local subsidiary in Taiwan, thus preparing for further growth in one of Asia’s most dynamic markets. Matthias Lapp, CEO LAPP Group, says: “With its strong position in high-tech manufacturing – particularly in the semiconductor, electronics, and automation industries – Taiwan holds great potential for LAPP. We see significant opportunities to support these advanced production environments with reliable, high-performance connectivity solutions. By establishing this strong local presence, we are emphasizing our commitment to customer focus and our local for local strategy.” Dating back more than 15 years, LAPP’s partnership with DKSH Taiwan has been long and fruitful. DKSH is a Swiss holding company specializing in market expansion services – offering sourcing, marketing, sales, distribution, and after sales support – primarily across Asia Pacific, Europe, and North America to help other companies grow in new or existing markets. LAPP Taiwan is based in Taipei and Taoyuan and employs more than 10 people.
Longdetectionrangecombinedwithshortblindzone Baumer's NexSonic UF300 is an ultra-compact 18mm flat ultrasonic sensor with a 3-meter sensing range. In addition to the sensing range other key features include a blind range of just 50 mm and a short response time up to 56ms. The minimal installation depth will be extremely helpful in sensingapplicationswherespaceisrestricted. TheNexSonictechnologyisdesignedtomaximiseultrasonicsensorperformanceand isbasedonanultrasonicprocessor(ASIC)developedandpatented byBaumer.ThepiezoelectricelementwithASICconnectsdirectly tothesensormembrane.Theresultisashortersignalpathand improvedelectromagneticcompatibility,whilethecompactevaluationelectronicsboostssignalprocessingtimeandreliability. Additionalbenefitsofthetechnologyaretheadaptivesoniccone whichisideallysuitedtodetectingobjectsthroughnarrowopeningsalongwithsmartfilterfunctions,whichcansuppressinterferingobjects. UF300withNexSonictechnologyisavailablein bothmeasuringandswitchingoptionswithitsversatilityreduces thenumberofproductvariantstypicallyrequired.Thankstoits featuresthenewUF300isideallysuitedtosensingapplications includingpalletdetectionandothersensingapplicationsinthe packagingandelectronicsindustries.
Custom Optics - Trends, Challenges, the Design Process and Quality Assurance
If you require a professional image processing system to meet specific needs it is essential that the lens also meets all the necessary criteria to ensure long-term functionality. We spoke to Rob Watkinson from Resolve Optics about overcoming the limitations of off-the-shelf products and achieving the best results.
IEN Europe: What are the technological trends driving customers to ask your help to solve their new optical product design challenges?
Watkinson: As a specialist in custom optical design and manufacture, we do not typically deal with trends directly. Most enquiries we receive are for an application that is optically more demanding requiring high performance, high-resolution, compactness, robustness, radiation resistant or a large format image where an off the shelf lens is not available or would necessitate that you accept a compromise in one or more aspects of optical performance.
That being said – one trend that we broadly see across many markets is a push for higher resolution optical systems. As manufacturers introduce new sensors with smaller pixels and higher pixel counts, the subsequent demand on optics is significantly increasing. It is becoming increasingly difficult to meet these demands from traditional optics, resulting in a need to use aspheric lens designs and exotic materials to meet the performance required by these high-resolution sensors.
IEN Europe: Describe customer needs in different industrial/applicational areas (that you serve) which are most challenging?
Rob Watkinson, Sales Manager at Resolve Optics Ltd. robwatkinson@resolveoptics.com
Watkinson: As a specialist in custom optical design - Resolve Optics has experience of partnering with camera, sensor and optical instrument developers plus integrators in markets ranging from the nuclear industry, defence and aerospace industries to industrial vision and healthcare applications. Each industry has its own unique challenges, for instance the nuclear industry requires radiation resistant optics. From our 30 years’ experience, we typically find the biggest challenges come from space and military applications. These applications will often come with strict requirements in terms of size, weight and operating environment, and being able to withstand elevated levels of vibration and shock, large temperature swings or in the case of space, cosmic radiation. As well as making the mechanical design challenging, these requirements can increase the difficulty of creating a suitable optical design. For example, specifying optics that fit into a small operating envelopes, can make it more difficult to maintain their performance. Likewise, maintaining lens performance over a large temperature range or when exposed to radiation, will limit the choice of materials available to the optical designer, making the design more challenging. This is where our decades of experience can really help create the application optimised lens or optical system our customer requires.
IEN Europe: Supply chain problems have increased in different industrial sectors over the last few years. Has this impacted the design of lenses and optical systems?
Watkinson: We hear that some parts of the optics and photonics industry are experiencing significant supply chain disruptions, characterized by shortages of certain materials, longer lead times, and a scarcity of skilled labour. These issues have been driven by post-COVID demand surges and geopolitical tensions that can cause production bottlenecks. Fortunately, Resolve Optics has been largely unaffected by supply chain issues. One area we have experienced challenges is with the supply of Germanium which has become extremely difficult to source globally, forcing the need to consider alternative chalcogenide type glasses for IR lens designs.
IEN Europe: What does a typical process look like from first contact to final decision on a new production custom lens or optical system?
Watkinson: When we first receive a new customer enquiry – Resolve Optics experienced design team will spend a week or two reviewing the requirement to ensure we can offer the best fit solution. This design process is a collaborative, iterative, and ISO 9001-certified workflow that is proven to transform client specifications into high-performance optical systems. The key stages of our process are a free initial consultation and feasibility evaluation, generation of a design proposal, optimization of the optical design, engineering and software modelling to simulate, test, and optimize the lens performance, ensuring it meets or exceeds requirements, prototyping and testing followed, after approval of the prototypes by production and supply. This overall process for designing and delivering production batches of a new fixed focus
lens will typically take up to 6 months and for more complex custom zoom lens designs longer.
IEN Europe: What steps and tests are typically involved in your production and quality management processes?
Watkinson: This is governed by individual customer requirements. Resolve Optics undertakes that 100% of the lenses we supply will be optically tested and further testing as specified by the customer and agreed during the design process. We maintain a strict GRN procedure and all components are traceable back to the original material supplier. If requested material certificates and inspection reports can be supplied with more detailed information. For example, we have our own in-house vibration and shock testing equipment to ensure the lenses we produce for space, military, and harsh industrial applications can withstand operational stresses.
IEN Europe: If a customer needs certification for their new lens or optical product, how do you support them?
Watkinson: We are always happy to discuss and collaborate with the customer to ensure they have everything they need. As previously mentioned, we have invested in advanced MTF testing and vibration / shock testing equipment to provide in-house certification in these areas. If it is something that we cannot supply in house, we have established agreements with third parties to ensure every element of certification can be covered.
IEN Europe: Thank you for these insights!
65681 at www.ien.eu
Fixed focus lens for nuclear inspection with non-browning glass for high radiation resistance.
Lenses used in defence applications are typically designed to meet military standards, often requiring increased durability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions
10 Energy Efficient Production
Green Hydrogen 4.0: How IO-Link Sensors Contribute to the Energy Transition
Hydrogen can be used in many ways as an energy source for industry and heavy goods transport, making it a key factor in transforming the energy supply. In addition to being produced from renewable energies, its availability is also crucial. IO-Link sensors from JUMO enable the rapid implementation and safe operation of a modular concept for hydrogen production.
Author: Alexander Hof, Senior Product Manager Connectivity, JUMO
In times of advancing climate change and the urgent need to replace fossil fuels, green hydrogen is increasingly coming into focus.
As a versatile energy source that is produced exclusively from renewable energies such as wind or solar power, green hydrogen is considered one of the great hopes for the decarbonisation of key sectors such as industry, heavy goods transport and energy supply. A pioneering hydrogen project, consisting of an electrolyser, a hydrogen filling station, and a trailer filling station, was recently implemented just 10.5 km away from the headquarters of JUMO GmbH & Co. KG.
Electrolysers from FEST – ‘Made in Germany’
While local renewable energy plants supply green electricity and the hydrogen filling station enables emission-free refuelling, an electrolyser performs the crucial task of splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen.
As a specialist in innovative electrolysis technologies, Goslar-based FEST GmbH supplies state-of-the-art PEM electrolysers (PEM = polymer electrolyte membrane), which form the heart of hydrogen production. FEST's containerised systems are designed for maximum efficiency, safety and flexibility. Thanks to their modular design, they can be optimally adapted to the requirements of the location and enable scalable production – from pilot applications to large-scale hydrogen hubs. FEST not only contributes cutting-edge technology ‘Made in Germany’, but also extensive experience in the planning, implementation and support of complex hydrogen projects. With its expertise, FEST GmbH ensures that
renewable electricity is reliably and economically converted into green hydrogen – thus laying the foundation for the success of the overall project.
Precise measurement is the key for efficient hydrogen production
During hydrogen production (electrolysis), water is broken down into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity – a highly sensitive process in which various process variables must be monitored precisely. Even the smallest deviations can impair the efficiency of hydrogen production or lead to undesirable side reactions. Precise temperature measurement, for example, ensures that the
Standardised containerised PEM electrolyser from FEST – modular and scalable. Picture: FEST GmbH
electrolysis cells always operate within the optimum operating range and are protected against overheating and power losses. Continuous monitoring of conductivity, in turn, is essential to ensure the quality of the electrolyte and to detect deposits or malfunctions at an early stage. Error-free and stable measurements are therefore indispensable for operating the PEM electrolysis process safely, economically and sustainably.
IO-Link: Smart sensors for maximum process reliability
The advantages of IO-Link technology are already apparent in the early project phases –long before the electrolyser produces hydro-
gen for the first time. During the planning and commissioning of the plant, the digital interface not only saves time but also reduces complexity: instead of complex wiring with separate cables for power and sensor data, a standardised cable with M12 connectors is used, which transmits both power and digital measured values. Depending on the plant, this reduces the wiring effort by up to 50%. Com missioning also benefits: sensors can be parameterised centrally, configurations can be saved and quickly transferred to other devices as required.
UMO uses the two products
dTRANS T1000 and digiLine CR H SL in its complete hydrogen filling station solution. Picture: JUMO
This saves time, enables smooth integration into the control environment and increases flexibility when adapting or expanding the plant.
IO-Link demonstrates its full potential during operation. Not only do the sensors provide precise measured values, they also deliver comprehensive diagnostic data in real time. This enables signs of wear or deviations to be detected early and addressed specifically, which is a significant advantage for process
reliability and plant availability. When a sensor needs replacing, the system automatically recognises the new sensor and adopts the stored parameters, enabling quick and error-free replacement. IO-Link also facilitates remote diagnosis and maintenance, enabling operators and service technicians to access sensor information at any time, regardless of their location.
The success story of IO-Link shows that the technology has long since become the standard in industrial automation. Its future potential is enormous, particularly given the increasing digitalisation and networking of production facilities, where IO-Link is becoming a key technology for Industry 4.0. In hydrogen production, IO-Link opens up new dimensions of transparency, efficiency, and process reliability, making projects such as the Hünfeld-Michelsrombach electrolyser fit for tomorrow's challenges.
66538 at www.ien.eu
The hydrogen project in Hünfeld-Michelsrombach consists of an electrolyser, a filling station and a trailer filling station. Picture: FEST GmbH
Energy Efficient Production
On the Way to Becoming Energy Self-Sufficient
The Essen-based company Greenflash, in collaboration with STABL Energy, has implemented an intelligent energy system for their joint customer, the duo Giga Coating and System Trailers in the Emsland region. The combination of photovoltaics and energy storage using recycled electric car batteries is controlled by the new AI-based software Greencore AI from Greenflash. This offers advantages to energyintensive industrial enterprises such as Giga Coating and System Trailers that were hardly viable on this scale in the past.
The energy transition has meanwhile arrived in industry, albeit with varying degrees of pressure for the different sectors to take action. However, issues such as rising energy prices and the necessity of orientation toward renewable energies are here to stay. Companies who fail to face these challenges and find answers and solutions in the short term risk nothing less than economic ruin.
Solar power yes, but only if it is intelligent!
Many companies have already decided to install systems that allow them to cover at least part of their energy demand self-sufficiently, for example with photovoltaics. In principle, this is a good first step, but for the experts at Greenflash, the PV installation on the roof alone is inadequate. “Without intelligent control and a comprehensive concept, a simple
PV installation not only leaves huge potential unused, but also costs the owner money,” explains Lennart Oklitz, Project Manager at Greenflash. “That happens on days when there is an oversupply of electricity at certain times. The feeding of self-generated, ‘excess’ power to the grid costs up to 1,000 euros or more in just one day.” More about this below. For Giga Coating GmbH and the vehicle manufacturer System Trailers just next door – the two companies are affiliated, with headquarters in Twist, near the city of Meppen in the German Emsland region – the joint management decided to use an intelligent energy system such as that developed and implemented by Greenflash. Giga Coating is the site of Europe’s most modern surface coating plant for cathodic dip coating and powder coating, which is also utilized for fully auto-
mated coating of large workpieces for use in industry. The high power consumption of the stoving ovens forced the company to find alternatives to fossil fuels.
Energy requirements at System Trailers are likewise high, in this case for the welding robots used for the timely production of large quantities of trailers and semi-trailers in a wide variety of versions. In 2022, the two companies contacted Greenflash with the request to develop a sustainable solution for the power supply.
Comprehensive solution with more than 2 MWp – and an innovative storage system “There are several reasons why Giga Coating and System Trailers are special customers for us,” explains Lennart Oklitz. “For example, we combined the two connecting points for the
A stationary battery storage system from STABL Energy complements the energy system installed at Giga Coating and System Trailers –this allows intermediate storage of the self-generated solar power, controlled distribution of peak loads, and substantial reduction of electricity costs. Photo: Greenflash GmbH
Acceptance of the energy storage system for Giga Coating and System Trailers by Greenflash and STABL in June 2025 in Twist, Emsland – left, Lennart Oklitz, Technical Project Manager at Greenflash; right: Markus Weiss, Project Manager at STABL.
Photo: Greenflash GmbH
power grid to create a single system. The PV systems of both companies were initially installed separately, with 390 kWp at System Trailers and 749 kWp at Giga Coating. They were likewise combined in this process.”
Another simultaneously installed PV system with 1.2 MWp was certified and commissioned by Greenflash. Oklitz continues: “Since we are the general contractor for this project, we were able to set the course early on for a comprehensive, intelligent solution, including connection to the energy exchange. Another important milestone was the seamless integration of a power storage system for the solar power generated. This system was built by our partner STABL Energy, delivered in a 20-foot container in June 2025, and commissioned jointly.”
The special feature of the STABL solution is the modular concept, as explained by Nam Truong, CEO and co-founder of the company with headquarters in Munich and a branch in Berlin: “While the market for storage solutions generally relies on long battery chains and high-voltage batteries, our architecture with battery modules provides for increased durability, reliability, and efficiency. This even allows the use of recycled batteries from electric cars, with no compromises in performance and service life. This is an important aspect with a view toward resource efficiency and recycling.”
Modular concept with multi-level inverter
The STABL battery system for the two companies in Emsland comprises a total of 288 second-chance battery modules. Originally intended for installation in electric vehicles, they ended up on the shelf before getting a second chance. The usable storage capacity is 1,233 kWh, with an output of 405 kW. The purpose of the storage system is to smooth out peak loads and minimize grid charges due to atypical grid use. The modular design allows fast and versatile replacement of single
battery modules throughout the service life of the system.
Storage capability overcomes disadvantages
The commercial storage unit is very important in that it offers independence from the daily changing dynamics of the electricity market. This eliminates the necessity of immediately feeding unneeded electricity into the grid – with the aforementioned costly consequence of a negative electricity rate due to the surplus. Conversely, a company can purchase electricity at favorable times and keep it in the storage system until it is needed. Project manager Lennart Oklitz: “A comprehensive system like the one we have implemented here at Giga Coating and System Trailers offers companies so many more possibilities to reduce their energy costs than would be possible with a simple PV system on the roof.”
Inside the 20-foot container, in which the modular energy storage system from STABL is installed; one can clearly see the individual battery modules, which in this solution consist of electric car batteries that were never used in vehicles.
Photo: Greenflash GmbH
But the storage system is not the final development in the energy system at the affiliated companies in Twist: Giga Coating and System Trailers are meanwhile partners for a pilot project at Greenflash that demonstrates the capabilities of the AI-based energy management system – Greencore AI – in practice. “Simply put, Greencore AI controls an energy system in such a way that the customer always gets the best electricity rate in the end,” says Lennart Oklitz. “As soon as it becomes apparent that the electricity rate will be negative, our AI-based software intervenes to prevent electricity from flowing into the grid, thus eliminating the associated costs. We already have examples from the field that have enabled savings in the five-figure range thanks to Greencore AI. Read on: https:www.ien.eu/bingo/66312
66312 at www.ien.eu
exclusive interview
Focus on Key Industrial Technologies
We spoke with Dr. Jochen Köckler, CEO of Deutsche Messe AG, about the upcoming HANNOVER MESSE (April 20–24).
IEN Europe: In 2026, HANNOVER MESSE once again aims to be one of the global hotspots for topics related to industrial transformation. What are the main exhibition areas, and how are they structured thematically?
Köckler: This year, HANNOVER MESSE features a new thematic layout. Automation and digitalization are closer both spatially and conceptually. We are responding to a clear trend: software and hardware are increasingly converging in industry – from AI-controlled robots and data-driven manufacturing to digitalized supply chains. The updated structure is divided into three main exhibition areas: “Automation & Digitalization,” “Energy & Industrial Infrastructure”, and “Research & Technology Transfer.” The new layout reflects what has long been reality in factories: processes and technologies can no longer be viewed separately.
IEN Europe: The new layout is intended to support the thematic structure. What advantages does this realignment offer visitors, and what does it look like in practice?
Köckler: The new layout enables visitors to orient themselves quickly. For the first time, we have installed Solution Labs in all three main exhibition areas. At each central location, we organize Expert Stages, Masterclasses, Roundtables, and Speed Dating sessions. While the Expert Stages are freely accessible, visitors must apply in advance to participate in the other three formats.
The Masterclasses provide in-depth insights into innovations, technologies, and specific applications. The focus is on practical use cases, the classification of different solution approaches, and the opportunity to discuss questions directly with experts. During Roundtables, up to ten participants and one exhibitor discuss a specific topic. The Speed Dating sessions give visitors the opportunity to engage in short, approximately seven-minute conversations with various exhibitors, gaining different perspectives on a particular subject.
IEN Europe: The new Center Stage in Hall 25 will be one of the highlights of the trade fair. What topics and speakers can visitors look forward to?
Köckler: The new Center Stage is THE highlight of HANNOVER MESSE. Around 100 high-profile speakers from around the world will participate. Among them are thought leaders, CEOs, scientists, and politicians who have boldly pursued innovative paths and contributed to the
Dr. Jochen Köckler, CEO of Deutsche Messe AG. Picture: Deutsche Messe AG
Specialist information will be provided for visitors on various stages. A particular highlight will be the speakers on the new Center Stage in Hall 25. Picture: Deutsche Messe AG
advancement of manufacturing.
At HANNOVER MESSE, they will provide exclusive insights into their work, share practical expertise, and offer clear guidance on the future of industry. Speakers include Cedrik Neike, Member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG and CEO Digital Industries; Zhaopeng Chen, Founder and CEO of Agile Robots SE; Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO of Accenture; and Amy Webb, futurist and CEO of the Future Today Institute.
IEN Europe: What special areas focusing on particularly important industry topics will be featured at the trade fair? How can visitors obtain targeted information on specific topics – before and during the event?
Köckler: The most important tool remains the exhibitor and product search on our website. There, visitors can find out in advance about the solutions being presented at HANNOVER MESSE.
At the trade fair itself, we offer themed group pavilions. In the field of robotics, for example, the Application Park in Hall 26 focuses on AIbased perception systems, autonomous mobile industrial robots, and humanoid robots.
Another key topic is cybersecurity, which is also located in Hall 26. Due to geopolitical changes, cybersecurity requirements are increasing rapidly, and industrial companies face growing pressure. Artificial intelligence (AI) is taking both attacks and defense to a new level: In 2026, AI will be the dominant technology in both offensive and defensive cybersecurity strategies. Attackers are using AI to automate phishing, social engineering, vulnerability analysis, and entire attack campaigns.
We also have AI Experience Pavilions in Halls 16 and 27. Both are interactive exhibition areas where visitors can directly experience and understand artificial intelligence.
IEN Europe: In cooperation with DSEI, HANNOVER MESSE has established the special “Defense Production Area” for the first time. Who is this area aimed at, and where do you see the interfaces and overlaps with “traditional” manufacturing and exhibition topics?
Köckler: With the Defense Production Area, we have created a new
exhibition area for modern production technologies in the defense sector. Companies will present concrete solutions demonstrating how the defense and security industry can scale its manufacturing capacities quickly, efficiently, and securely – embedded within the industrial environment and the international reach of HANNOVER MESSE.
The Defense Production Area in Hall 26 serves as the central platform for manufacturers and suppliers whose technologies, machinery, systems, or components are used in the production of security-relevant products. It is particularly aimed at visitors from the defense and security industry.
On the Tuesday of the trade fair, we will host Defense Day on our Center Stage. Speakers include Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall; Michael Schöllhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space; and Marc Wietfeld, CEO of Arx Robotics.
IEN Europe: With Brazil as the partner country of HANNOVER MESSE 2026, a smoother ratification process for the long-negotiated Mercosur agreement might have been hoped for. Nevertheless, the trade fair partnership is expected to generate positive momentum for long-term cooperation. Which exhibitors and highlights can visitors expect?
Köckler: Even though the Mercosur agreement has not yet been fully ratified, it is already strengthening cooperation between Europe and the participating South American countries: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
In Hannover, Brazil will present its strengths in digitalization, innovation, international development, natural resources, and sustainability. The main pavilion in Hall 12 will focus on innovation and investment opportunities. Additional pavilions in Halls 11, 16, 17, and 26 will cover topics such as automation and robotics, digitalization, energy technologies, mechanical and plant engineering, startups, and sustainability.
IEN Europe: Thank you for these insights. See you soon in Hannover!
65681 at www.ien.eu
Picture: Deutsche Messe AGPicture: Deutsche Messe AG
motors & drives
I/O System for Extended Control Capabilities in Motion-Centric Machines
Direct integration of high-speed I/O via compact slices for more flexibility in machine development
The MS I/O System enables direct integration of I/O slices with a Motion-PLC controller. Highly efficient data transfer is achieved via Trio’s new MS-Bus interface, a local communication protocol for MS I/O slice connection that provides high data throughput for responsive machine control. The MS I/O system can be tailored to the connectivity requirements of the machine, allowing any combination of digital inputs and outputs, and analogue inputs and outputs.
I/O slices simply ‘click in’ via forward insertion, with fast and easy mounting to a DIN rail. Connection is achieved via spring clamp connectors for a tool-free, secure installation, combined with push button wire removal, making slice insertion and swapping fast and easy to achieve. Slices are just
12mm wide, minimising the footprint inside a cabinet or onboard a machine.
Coupler for port expansion
Up to 16 I/O slices can be directly integrated with a Motion-PLC controller, with extension achieved by adding one or more MS EC (EtherCAT) couplers. Each MS EC coupler can integrate a further 16 I/O slices, and in total, a Motion-PLC controller can be expanded to host 1024 digital ports and 128 analogue ports.
As well as extending I/O connectivity, adding an MS EC coupler can also achieve a distributed I/O system, keeping I/O close to the sensors to reduce the cost and time of cabling. Instead, just a single cable is required to connect the MS EC coupler to a
Motion-PLC controller. Multiple MS EC couplers can be connected to a single EtherCAT controller, including third-party controllers, to create complete control across a machine.
Connection to EtherCAT
Slices click in to the MS EC coupler, communicating with it via the MS-Bus interface, and the MS EC coupler acts as a high-speed bridge to the EtherCAT network. With update rates down to just 125µs, this achieves high performance for both motion control and machine control automation. With EtherCAT IN and OUT ports, the MS EC coupler can also be placed at any point across the EtherCAT network.
en opti
mise control coordination. I/O integration and management is achieved through Trio’s mo
The Motion-PLC controller I/O slice interface and the MS EC I/O coupler are synchronized to Trio’s Motion-iX motion engine, enabling deterministic behaviour across all motion and machine connections. This ensures high-speed, reliable control to optimise control coordination. I/O integration and management is achieved through Trio’s easy to use MotionPerfect software for motion and machine set up.
The new I/O system is launched alongside Trio’s new Motion-PLC range that provides advanced motion control performance with the functionality and simplicity of a PLC. The new class of controller combines high-performance motion control over EtherCAT plus logic and I/O expansion, enabling faster, simpler machine development. The first controllers in the range are now available to order and scale machine and motion requirements up to eight axes.
advanced motion control performance with the functionality and simplicity of a PLC. The new class of controller combines high-per order and scale machine and motion require ments up to eight axes.
66543 at www.ien.eu
ADVANCEDMULTI-AXISMOTIONCONTROLLER
Upto100µscycletimesfor16axes
Elmo Motion Control has announcedthelaunchof theTitaniumMaestro,a next-generationmotion controller.TheTitanium Maestromeetsthe demandsofmachinebuilderswhorequirehighperformance, speed,accuracy,androbustness.Designedforthemostdemanding applications,itofferscutting-edge,real-timeEtherCATcommunicationandadvancedmulti-axismanagementcapabilities.The newcontrollerenhancestheperformanceandflexibilityofsystems,helpingdesignersandintegratorsofhigh-performance motionmachinesacrossvariousindustriestodevelopmoreefficientandcompetitivemotionsolutions.Poweredbyaquad-core CPU,theTitaniumMaestroishousedinafanless,passivelycooled unitwithextensivememoryofupto16GBofRAMand64GBof FLASH.Themotioncontrollerachievesanindustry-leadingEtherCATcycletimeof100µsfor16axes,settinganewperformance standard.Alternatively,itcancontrolatotalofupto96axes. With itsgraphicalcapabilities,advancedC++andPythonprogramming andreal-timeprogrammingsupport,theTitaniumMaestrois designedtoempowerthenextgenerationofmotioncontrol solutions.'SoftwareintheLoop'(SIL)supportfurtherstreamlines thedevelopmentprocessandacceleratesthevalidationof complexautomationsystems.
Formoreresistantanddurablealuminiumdrives NXDisthesurfacetreatment from NORD Drivesystems for gearunits,smoothmotorsand frequencyinvertersinthecompany'saluminiumportfolio.It providestheuserswithaneconomicandeffectivealternative forthesurfaceprotectionof drivesolutions,whichareheavilystressedbyextremeenvironmentalconditions. WithNXD,aluminiumsurfacesaregalvanised, makingthemparticularlycorrosion-resistantanddurable.The latestgenerationofsurfaceprotectionisavailableintwovariants. NXDBASIC®consistsofthegalvanically-producedbaselayerwith anadditionalvarnish.Corrosionprotectionisalsoensuredincase ofdamagetothevarnish.Thevariantissuitableforuseunder demandingenvironmentalconditionssuchasoffshoreareas. The secondvariantisthefood-safeNXDtupH®.Here,thisgalvanised baselayeristreatedwithasealer.Thisprocesspreventsflakingor microcrackspronetogerms.NXDtupH®offerssafesurfaceprotectionforextremeconditionsinwash-downapplications.Itmakes drivesolutionsresistanttoacidsandalkalisfromtheregular cleaninganddisinfectionprocesses.Evenifdamageoccurstothe galvanisedbaselayer,noparticleswillflakeoffduetothesealing, whichmakesNXDtupH®surfaceshygiene-friendlyandthussuitableforuseinhygienicallycriticalindustries.
66325atwww.ien.eu
18 motors & drives
Empowering Humanoid Robots
As the robotics sector steadily moves from science fiction to factory floor, a new generation of humanoid robots is emerging to reshape industry, healthcare, and daily life.
This class of machines are designed to do more than automate. They're built to move like us. They're built to work alongside us. And at times, they're even built to stand in for us.
Yet replicating human motion is not just a question of software and AI. It starts at the core components that enable this movement, with actuators and motors that combine compact size, lightweight design, and remarkable performance.
That’s where Portescap comes in. As part of the Regal Rexnord family of brands, Portescap brings decades of experience in miniature motion systems and a proven track record in high-performance medical and industrial applications. Today, it is supporting a new wave of robotics OEMs as they transition from prototype to production.
The rise of humanoid robotics
The idea of a humanoid machine has fascinated engineers, scientists, and storytellers for over a century, appearing in literature and early cinematic visions of the future long before the technology existed to make them real. Early attempts at humanoid robots in the midto-late 20th century were largely experimental, often limited to slow, rigid movements and basic programmed routines. Since the turn of the millennium, however, a combination of
breakthroughs in AI, computing, motion control, and materials science has brought the concept within reach. Today, humanoid robots are being developed with increasingly sophisticated capabilities: they can walk, balance, manipulate objects, and respond to voice commands or sensory feedback.
The purpose of this form factor is not simply to mimic the human body for its own sake. It allows these robots to interact with human environments, designed around our size, tools, and workflows, without needing extensive changes to infrastructure.
technology matures and its capabilities grow, there's a very good chance that tomorrow’s systems may need to walk the ocean floor, enter radioactive zones, or carry out maintenance in the vacuum of space.
In many of these environments, human workers would face unacceptable risks from heat, pressure, radiation, or isolation. Humanoid robots and exoskeletons offer a way to extend human capability into these hazardous zones, performing tasks remotely, reliably, and – vitally – without exposing human operators to danger.
These scenarios demand more than smart AI; they require mechanical systems engineered to endure the extremes. Portescap is already well-prepared for these scenarios, however, as it has extensive experience in building motors for extreme conditions, such as high heat, chemical exposure, vibration, and more.
While many robotic applications are still pre-commercial, Portescap is already developing solutions that can handle these tough operating conditions. With sealing, insulation, and specialised materials, the company is ready to support OEMs as their applications move off the lab bench and into the field.
That makes them well-suited to working alongside people, whether on production lines, in warehouses, in healthcare settings, or in the field.
Preparing for harsh environments
Many of today’s robotics applications are destined for highly controlled environments like warehouses or hospitals. However, as the
Making hands work
One of the key requirements of any humanoid robot is the ability to interact with its environment in the same way a human would. As such,
it's vital that they have functional hands. Achieving this, however, is not necessarily a simple task.
Although we often take it for granted, the human hand is a marvel of engineering, one that is capable of delicate manipulation, strong grip, and complex motion, all in a compact, adaptable form. This means that any robotic replica must be small enough to fit inside human-like form factors, strong enough to grip and lift weight, and smart enough to know just how much of that strength to use.
To meet this challenge, Portescap offers a wide portfolio of motor topologies and technologies. Cylindrical motors, shaped like slim batteries, can be embedded in fingers or palm area. Flat motors, meaning with short axial distance, offer high torque in compact packages for wrists or arm integration. Crucially, the company also provides brushed DC, hybrid stepper, and brushless DC options (including both slotted and slotless designs), helping developers strike the right balance of speed, torque, smoothness, and efficiency for each axis of motion.
But components alone don’t make a system. What sets Portescap apart is its "engineer-to-engineer" approach. The company works directly with roboticists, guiding design teams through motor selection, integration with gearheads and encoders, and performance optimisation to achieve specific motion goals. Whether an OEM needs fast, high-volume gripping or smooth, multi-articulated gestures, Portescap can configure a solution that fits the form and delivers the function.
Bringing bionics to life
Humanoid robots are not the only application for this kind of solution, however. Perhaps the most immediate and transformative impact of robotic hand development instead lies in prosthetics.
Portescap’s technology is already powering a new generation of bionic limbs that combine functional grip with intuitive control. These solutions go beyond raw motor specs, drawing on a deep understanding of cost, weight, and patient ergonomics.
Prosthetic developers often target around 80% of human hand dexterity, with 10-20 ba-
sic motion patterns. These designs must be lightweight, durable, and efficient, while remaining affordable for cost-sensitive markets. Portescap’s experience in both premium and value-engineered designs makes it well suited to this space.
From proof-of-concept to scaled production
Across the industry, OEMs are racing to prove the value of next-generation robotics. Demonstrator units and pilot projects are being used to unlock funding, attract strategic partners, and secure long-term market positions. That means motion system partners must be able to deliver quickly, reliably, and flexibly.
Portescap supports this full journey. The company can provide small quantities for R&D testing and validation, then take advantage of Regal Rexnord's global reach and engineering expertise to scale seamlessly to support commercial launches, with lead times and production infrastructure already proven in demanding sectors like medical devices and aerospace. This makes it not just a component provider, but a long-term platform partner. This scalability also enables cost-effective iteration. Customers can test several configurations or gear ratios in parallel, then down-select based on actual test data. Portescap’s global support network helps manage this process efficiently, reducing development risk and time to market.
The Next Generation
As robotics moves toward real-world deployment, success will come down to more than innovation. It will require motion solutions that are engineered precisely, delivered reliably, and scaled effectively.
From form-fit options and technical expertise to production agility and application support, Portescap offers everything OEMs need to bring humanoids and exoskeletons to life. In a field where form follows function, the company is ready to power what’s next. And as part of Regal Rexnord, it does so with the strength and support of a global organisation, combining local expertise with worldwide reach to help OEMs turn ideas into fully realised, market-ready solutions.
66594 at www.ien.eu
Why Faster Robots Are No Longer Enough for Industry
Reactive robotics has delivered enormous efficiency gains for industry. But the technology is reaching its economic limits: systems that only respond to the current state scale speed – but not stability. As process complexity grows, small misjudgements lead to costly downtime. Sereact is now introducing Cortex 2.0, a new generation of AI that evaluates the consequences of actions in advance and eliminates errors before they occur. The economic potential is immense.
In logistics and manufacturing, the most expensive problems do not arise from a lack of precision or systems that are too slow, but from decisions whose consequences only become apparent with a delay. An unstable grip, an unfavourable sequence, or a minor deviation. What appears correct in the moment leads to bottlenecks, standstills, or damaged goods seconds or minutes later. The industry's response to date has been clear: better sensors, faster reactions, more automation. This model scales speed above all else – not stability. As process complexity increases, so do risk and cost. Reactive systems are hitting a structural limit. This is precisely where Sereact steps in.
With Cortex 2.0, the Stuttgart-based AI company is pursuing an approach that advances physical AI not through faster execution, but
through better decisions. Instead of allowing robots to react exclusively to the current state, Cortex 2.0 supplements control with a predictive assessment of possible courses of action. The system estimates which decisions could lead to problems later on and learns to avoid them.
Learning from real processes
The key difference to many current physical AI approaches lies in the database. Cortex 2.0 does not primarily learn from simulations, but from real-world operation. Sereact already operates several hundred robots in productive environments in Europe and the US. These deployments continuously generate data on how decisions affect real processes and how small deviations escalate or remain stable. "In industry, complex processes can-
not be simulated realistically," says CEO and co-founder Ralf Gulde. "Predictive action only arises where systems experience real consequences. Cortex learns precisely from these experiences."
Why stability is becoming a key economic factor
This approach is economically relevant because unplanned downtime is one of the biggest cost drivers in automated processes. The higher the degree of automation, the more expensive wrong decisions become. Reactive physical AI reaches its limits here. It becomes faster, but not more robust.
Cortex 2.0 therefore clearly separates execution and evaluation for the first time. The robots remain fast and latency-free. The analysis of possible consequences runs in parallel and is fed back into the system via learning processes. This improves the quality of decisions without slowing down operations. This capability will be crucial for the next generation of autonomous systems, such as collaborative robots, multi-stage processes, and, in the future, humanoid applications. Machines that work alongside humans or control complex processes must not only be able to act, but also assess what their actions will trigger.
66652 at www.ien.eu
Multifunctional Sensor for Data Acquisition
Digitally capturing environmental and machine data for proactive decision-making.
With the new SIEDS multifunctional sensor, InduSol is expanding its product portfolio for efficient digitization of industrial facilities. The focus is on data acquisition for preventive maintenance and providing information from the production environment. The multifunctional sensor is both a reliable assistant for maintenance personnel and an indispensable provider of information for maintaining high production quality, to the extent that it is almost perceived as a "colleague". It captures up to ten physical parameters at its installation location, including temperature,
COMPACTMODBUSHMIS
humidity, air quality, pressure, vibration/shock, brightness, acoustics and other variables such as magnetic fields. The latter can be an important indicator for identifying EMC influences.
No Software, No Parameterization
Thanks to the self-learning teach function on the integrated web server, the sensor automatically adapts its alarm behavior to different assets. It requires no separate software, no parameterization and is therefore fully operational immediately after installation. Irregularities are de-
tected early at specific points and entered into an alarm list. The clear display makes it easy to identify trends and, due to the ten values, correlations can also be readily recognized, enabling measures to be derived for optimal operation and maintenance as well as for production. Through the open industrial interfaces MQTT, OPC UA and REST API, the sensor is an integral component of a modern, future-oriented OT digitization architecture and integration into higher-level process optimization or CM systems is possible easily.
66339 at www.ien.eu
22 automation technology
AI-Based End-of-Line Inspection for Multi-Chamber Vehicle Lamps
Danube Dynamics and Aspöck Systems automate complex lamp inspections using adaptive AI and IDS industrial cameras to ensure accuracy, flexibility and full traceability under real production conditions.
Production companies are under enormous pressure today: Customers are demanding more and more variants, delivery times are shrinking, error rates must not increase, and traditional visual inspections quickly reach their limits. Visual quality control is becoming one of the biggest challenges for the manufacturing industry. Every production error costs time, money and reputation. AI-supported image processing is therefore becoming an indispensable tool for automating inspection processes, efficiently managing variant diversity and ensuring the highest level of quality. The Austrian company Danube Dynamics, together with Aspöck Systems, demonstrates how end-of-line testing of multi-chamber lamps can be efficiently automated. The combination of the AI solution "auros for quality" and IDS camera technology allows even complex inspection tasks in diverse production environments to be reliably mastered – a solution that offers immediate added value for companies of all sizes.
Background: More than just "light on, light off"
Aspöck Systems manufactures multi-chamber lamps for vehicles, which must be reliably tested at the end of the production line. It is not only important whether a lamp lights up, but also whether the correct chamber is enabled. A flashing signal must not accidentally activate the rear fog light – a mistake that could have serious consequences on the road. Added to this are typical production conditions: different orientations of components, extraneous light in the hall, dust and dirt, and a wide variety of variants. Traditional systems based on fixed test rules reach their limits
here. Every product change involves a great deal of adjustment work, and unexpected error patterns are difficult to detect reliably.
Solution: AI and camera working together
To overcome these hurdles, Aspöck Systems relies on the "auros for quality" solution from Danube Dynamics. At its heart is an adaptive AI that processes image data in real time on a powerful industrial PC (IPC) directly on the line. Image capture is handled by two industrial cameras from the uEye XCP series by IDS. “Our solution does not work with rigid testing rules, but with adaptive algorithms. This enables us to reliably identify even complex or unexpected error patterns and adapt systems to new products very quickly," explains Nico Teringl, CEO of Danube Dynamics. The deci-
sion to go with IDS was a conscious one: "In addition to the interface, price and size, the advice provided by IDS was the decisive factor for us. Together, we found the camera that exactly meets our requirements and guarantees the required precision on a permanent basis," says Nico Teringl.
The role of IDS: Sensor quality meets consulting expertise
The IDS U3-3680XCP Rev.1.2 used features the 5.04 MP rolling shutter CMOS sensor onsemi AR0521 and consistently delivers detailed, low-noise images, even in challenging lighting conditions. Back Side Illumination technology ensures high sensitivity and low noise levels, offering a clear advantage in low ambient light or dirty conditions. "The com-
uEye XCP - The industry's smallest housing camera with C-mount
bination of compact size, robust design and superior low-light performance makes this model the ideal component for demanding end-of-line inspections," emphasises Jürgen Hejna, Product Owner 2D Cameras at IDS. In addition, the IDS peak software environment facilitates the connection of cameras and significantly reduces the integration effort. "Thanks to IDS peak, we were able to get the solution up and running very quickly and integrate it swiftly into the existing production environment at Aspöck," adds Nico Teringl.
From camera to test decision in real time During operation, the multi-chamber lamps are enabled individually by a control system. Two identical IDS cameras capture the images, which are then evaluated on the IPC using AI. The two cameras operate in parallel: While one product is being tested, the next product can already be placed on the test bench. This parallel approach increases cycle time and boosts efficiency. A key advantage of the solution is local processing without the cloud: This guarantees full data sovereignty, high reliability and minimal latency which is a crucial factor for Aspöck Systems, where production downtime must be avoided at all costs. The solution is independent of the exact alignment of the lamps and robust against environmental variables such as extraneous light or contamination.
The results are displayed in real time on an HMI touchscreen, automatically logged and can be transmitted to the higher-level production system via an API. This creates a closed inspection process that replaces or effectively supplements manual visual inspections while also ensuring complete traceability.
Result: Efficient, flexible, reliable By combining "auros for quality" with IDS camera technology, Aspöck Systems has
taken its end-of-line inspection to a whole new level. Errors are reliably detected under even the most adverse production conditions. The system can be adapted to new product variants in just a few minutes via the touchscreen, without the need for time-consuming programming. At the same time, those responsible benefit from clear visualisation and digital documentation of the results.
“The support provided by IDS was a decisive factor in our success. Not only did they provide us with the right camera, they also advised us on how to tailor the solution to our requirements”, summarises Nico Teringl.
Outlook: Quality assurance in transition
Quality control requirements in the automotive sector continue to increase. Inspection tasks are becoming more complex, the required accuracy is increasing, and powerful cameras with AI-supported evaluation are becoming indispensable. “We are seeing a clear trend towards intelligent, AI-supported image processing that is flexible enough to respond to new products and processes without requiring a great deal of effort. That is exactly why we developed 'auros for quality' in combination with IDS camera technology," says Teringl.
66651 at www.ien.eu
Activated multi-chamber lamps on the test bench: Left light OK, centre light OK, right light NOK
Intuitive HMI touchscreen for an improved user experience.
24 automation technology
Cold, Clever and Convenient: Setting up a New Deep-Freeze Warehouse
Früchte Jork GmbH from Baden-Württemberg, Germany – a family-run fresh food wholesaler – has reached an important milestone: Its new, fully automated deep-freeze warehouse is in operation. What may look like ‘just’ another high-bay warehouse to outsiders is a quantum leap for the company: faster order picking, optimized processes and significantly improved working conditions for employees. The project was implemented by the intralogistics experts at Klinkhammer Intralogistics GmbH
As one of the leading food wholesalers in the region, Früchte Jork supplies over 13,000 items to around 600 restaurants and hotels within a radius of 180 kilometers. The company’s steady growth brought the previous manual deep-freeze warehouse, in which order picking was carried out with forklifts at minus 22 degrees, to its limits. Together
with Klinkhammer, the owner family therefore developed a concept that takes storage capacity, picking performance, and energy efficiency to the next level. “In recent years, we have evolved from a traditional fruit and vegetable wholesaler to a fresh produce service provider. The automated logistics center is another milestone in our growth strategy,”
says Maximilian Jork, Managing Director of Früchte Jork GmbH.
Five lanes at full power
The new, automated deep-freeze warehouse has 26,280 tray storage positions. The goods are stored efficiently in terms of both space and energy – and leave the warehouse just
Früchte Jork.
as automatically as they came in. Goods-toperson picking delivers the trays directly to the workstation at an ergonomic height. This means less bending, less lifting, and less time in the frosty storage area.
Smart technology for perfect processes
An integrated sequence buffer ensures that orders are processed in exactly the right order. Flexible tray systems allow various sizes of cartons to be stored. State-of-the-art stacker cranes with camera technology ensure precise control and reduce energy consumption by recovering power during braking. The result: greater precision, shorter distances and reduced electricity consumption.
Precise and safe – even at minus 30 degrees
The Leuze FBPS 607i bar code positioning system increases efficiency and reduces costs in automated warehouse operations. Klinkhammer has been using the FBPS 607i from Leuze for positioning its stacker cranes since 2022. The first safe bar code position-
ing system with redundant SSI interface and integrated heating enables use even at temperatures as low as -30°C. Connected directly to the drive’s frequency converter, the system reacts in just 10 milliseconds. At the same time, the FBPS meets the stricter requirements of the new machinery directive: Where two separate devices were once needed to achieve the required performance level, today a single FBPS does the job. This saves time during installation and integration and also makes the solution economically attractive.
Further expansion
The new deep-freeze warehouse is just the beginning. In the second expansion phase, automatic shuttle warehouses for chilled and dry goods were put into operation, which automatically combine orders. This makes the entire logistics process even more efficient. With this investment, Früchte Jork is not only boosting its competitiveness but also making a clear statement: Modern au-
Leuze Barcode Positioning System FBPS 607i 07 SM 100 H – Dual SSI Interface including Heater. Picture: Leuze.
ETHERNETGATEWAYFORZONE1
Intrinsicallysafecopper-basedEthernettoATEXZone1 presents a new solution for Ethernet communication in hazardous areas. The GEN-2G multi-protocol gateway enables a continuous, intrinsically safe, copper-based Ethernet infrastructure in ATEX Zone 1 for the first time. The new solution expands the existing excom system with the GEN-3G Zone 2 gateway, now allowing easy conversionfromProfibusDPtoEthernetcommunicationinZone1 aswell-withoutreplacingtheI/Oandsensorlevel.Communicationbetweennon-hazardousandhazardousareasiscarriedout usingfiberopticcableswithFOCEN11Ex-2GandFOCEN11-3G mediaconverters-overdistancesofupto2,500m.Fromthis point,severalexcomstationscanbeintegratedintrinsicallysafely viacoppercablesinZone1.Thiseliminatesthepreviouslycommon,costlypoint-to-pointinstallationofeachstationviafiber opticcable.TheGEN-2Gmultiprotocolgatewayevenallowshot swappingduringoperationwithouttheneedforafireextinguisher. WiththeGEN-2G,existingexcominstallationscanalsobequickly andcost-effectivelyconvertedtoEthernetcommunicationand madefuture-proof. InternationalapprovalssuchasATEX,IECEx, CCC,andothers expandthesystem'srangeofapplications.
66380atwww.ien.eu
ULTRA-COMPACTINDUSTRIALPCS
Increasescomputingpowerfordemandingautomation
Be ' s C60xx scalable series of ultra-compact industrial PCs combines high computing power in an extremely compact format with a wide range of options for installation in the control cabinet. A new Intel Atom® processor generationnowprovidesevenmoreperformancereservesinthe devices.Withanewgenerationofprocessors,theC6015,C6017, andC6025ultra-compactIndustrialPCscanbeusedforevenmore demandingcomputingtasksthanbefore,whileretainingtheir compactformfactor.Thefanlessdevicesaredesignedinparticular forcontrol,visualization,andcommunication-fromcomplex automationandvirtualizationtouseasanedgedeviceorHMI platform.AllofthisbenefitsfromthenewIntelAtom®x7CPU series,whichoffersuptoeightprocessorcoresanda3.0GHzclock frequency. Asthesmallestdevicewithdimensionsofjust82x82x 40mm,theC6015ultra-compactIndustrialPCisidealforhighly compactapplications,virtualization,andIoT.Thesameappliesto theC6017withaninstallationdepthof66mm,whichhasan additionalsecondboardlevelforoptionalinterfacesandintegrated 1-secondUPS.Measuring82x127x47mm,theC6025canalso beexpandedtouptoeightprocessorcoresandusedwithhighperformanceSSDsandUSB-C.
Global meeting place for industrial transformation, where innovation and responsibility converge to shape the future of manufacturing. www.hannovermesse.de/hm2026 20 – 24 April 2026
