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Vahle presents the optical positioning system "Apos Optic 2.0" with only one camera.

08. October 2026, 17:27 Uhr
Switch language to German

Paul Vahle GmbH & Co. KG from Kamen has introduced a new generation of its optical positioning system for automated intralogistics and conveyor technology applications with "Apos Optic 2.0". Thanks to revised camera technology with an enlarged field of view, the system now requires only one camera instead of two for position detection. As a result, the readhead is narrower. Additionally, the new generation is backward compatible with existing "Apos Optic" systems, allowing for their gradual modernization.

With "Apos Optic 2.0," Vahle presents the more compact, camera-based generation of optical positioning, featuring a larger field of view, only one read head, and full backward compatibility. (Image source: Vahle)
With "Apos Optic 2.0," Vahle presents the more compact, camera-based generation of optical positioning, featuring a larger field of view, only one read head, and full backward compatibility. (Image source: Vahle)
08.10.2026
Christina Kasper
The essential technical change concerns the optical position detection. While the previous system generation required two cameras, "Apos Optic 2.0" manages with a single camera. According to the manufacturer, this is made possible by an enlarged field of view. Due to the modified design, Vahle was able to make the housing of the read head narrower. The more compact design is intended to facilitate integration into existing systems. At the same time, according to the company, the larger field of view offers additional possibilities for the design and positioning of the system. According to Vahle, the optical positioning system has already been used in various industrial applications for several years. These include positioning of vehicles, conveyors, and automated transport systems. With the new generation, the manufacturer is further developing the technology to meet current demands in automation, intralogistics, and materials handling.

Industrial Interfaces for Control Integration

For communication with higher-level automation and control systems, "Apos Optic 2.0" supports the interfaces RS485, SSI, and Profinet. This provides various options for integrating positioning technology into industrial control architectures. Additionally, the system features a USB diagnostic interface, intended for commissioning and diagnostics.

Backward Compatibility Facilitates Modernization

Another focus of the new development lies in integration into existing systems. According to Vahle, “Apos Optic 2.0” is backward compatible with the previous system generation. This allows both generations to be operated together within one facility.

This gives facility operators the ability to gradually replace existing positioning systems. According to the manufacturer, a complete replacement of the existing installation is not required for the transition.

During the transition phase, the first generation remains available. It can be used both for spare parts needs and to expand existing facilities. This allows operators to continue using their existing infrastructure initially and gradually integrate the new positioning technology.

Transition to New Generation by the End of 2028

For the transition between the two system generations, Vahle provides a specific timeline. The switch to "Apos Optic 2.0" is to be completed by December 31, 2028, at the latest.

Until this date, the company offers the previous generation "Apos Optic 1.0" at reduced rates. This is intended to support the supply of existing installations during the transition phase.

Vahle plans to publicly present the new system generation for the first time at the automation fair SPS, which will be held from November 24 to 26, 2026, in Nuremberg. The technical features and application possibilities of the revised positioning system are to be presented there.

Translated automatically from German.
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