Sensor Technology

Both companies are working on a technology that allows robots to take into account the course of complex work processes. In the future, companies should be able to use the new models for their own applications via Neuraverse.

The INC Innovation Center plans to open the "Future Robotics Exploration Hub" in Stuttgart in January 2027, in collaboration with industrial companies. The proposed facility is intended to enable manufacturing companies to test, compare, and validate mobile and humanoid robotic systems as well as physical artificial intelligence (Physical AI) technologies using real industrial tasks. The project was presented on October 6, 2026, at the Future Robotics Summit in Stuttgart.

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 regularly cleaned transport equipment, material and corrosion resistance can be crucial for use. Therefore, the provider is expanding its range of specialized pallet trucks.

The IFM Electronic GmbH presents solutions for industrial image processing in mobile robotics as well as in production and assembly processes at the Vision from October 6 to 8, 2026, in Stuttgart. The focus is on systems for environment detection and person recognition, as well as automated quality control. The manufacturer is thus addressing driverless transport vehicles and mobile robots as well as mobile work machines and stationary production facilities.

With three integrated functions, the radar sensor detects movements in defined areas. Users can use it, among other things, to monitor hard-to-see zones and detect the clearance of areas.

Starting an apprenticeship or dual study program is a special moment—full of anticipation, new impressions, and exciting challenges. Exactly this step is being taken by a total of 41 young people at the various IFM locations. In August, IFM already welcomed the first new trainees. In early September, the official start of training followed for many more talents at the training locations in Essen and Lake Constance.

If a pallet is not positioned exactly in its intended spot, its automatic pickup can be time-consuming. A combination of sensors and turntable drive is intended to solve the problem.

Contrinex combines several measurement functions for spindle monitoring in one device. In addition to a measuring range of up to 20 millimeters, the sensor offers programmable switching points.

Datasensing, the business unit for sensors, machine safety, and machine vision of Datalogic, has introduced the safety laser scanner "SLS10". According to the company, the device features a large safety area, short response times, and high angular resolution. The scanner is intended to contribute to the safety of machines and plants while reducing operating costs.

Hengstler combines redundant signal transmission with diagnostic functions in three series of absolute encoders. One model is also designed for motor speeds up to 12,000 revolutions per minute.