From May 26 to 28, 2026, SPS Italia - Smart Production Solutions in Parma returned as a key reference event for industrial automation. In this context, NORD DRIVESYSTEMS showcased advanced drive technologies designed for increasingly interconnected, flexible, and sustainability-oriented production environments.

Machinery safety continues to be a key theme at MachineBuilding.South, particularly given that the mandatory implementation of the new Machinery Regulation is just around the corner.

In the production of metal wheels using the flow-forming process, it is necessary to check the thickness distribution on the round body after each deformation step. This helps to comply with the target dimensions, ensuring high product quality and cost-effectiveness. For this measurement task, the manufacturer uses optoNCDT laser triangulation sensors from Micro-Epsilon.

The O-Type range from Mechan Controls combines over 50 years of design experience with the latest in machine guard safety technology. Perfect for applications where guard-locking is not required, these switches deliver long life, high reliability, and advanced diagnostics.

STEMMER IMAGING announces the launch of SIS-TA, Smart Industry Store - Technology Access, a newly established subsidiary designed to address the growing demand for fast, transparent, and highly efficient procurement processes within industrial automation.

It's just five weeks now until the inaugural MachineBuilding.South opens its doors at Sandown Park, providing a unique environment where engineers in the south of England can learn how to unlock innovation and drive excellence in machine building and factory automation.

The Machinery Regulation introduces new requirements covering AI, software, connectivity, and cybersecurity. With enforcement approaching in 2027, a new webinar from Fortress Safety on 17 June provides a clear overview of what's changing and how it will affect machine builders, integrators, and end users.

Merging the precision of optical sensing with the durability and cost-efficiency of magnetic systems are among the key features and benefits of a new compact EB260 encoder recently introduced by sensor specialist Baumer.

As packaging machine builders face growing pressure to combine compact design, flexibility and cost efficiency, drive technology is coming under closer scrutiny. At interpack 2026, Lenze used its presence in Hall 6, Stand D50 to show that high dynamic performance does not necessarily depend on classic servo technology.

In the demanding world of industrial finishing, safety and productivity are often viewed as opposing forces. However, by integrating process control with safety logic from ReeR Safety, there are examples where manufacturers can achieve high-speed throughput without compromising operator protection.