The Hima Group, a provider of safety-related automation solutions, grew significantly in the 2024 financial year, driven in part by international expansion and an increasing focus on digital solutions.

The 'I/O-Connection Manager' in the 'Lasal' automation software from Sigmatek enables flexible and scalable communication between the controller and connected I/Os.

According to the manufacturer, the 'Acuro AM34' absolute encoder from Hengstler is the most compact encoder in its class and even fits into driverless transport vehicles and cobots.

A new type of AI chip developed at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) works without the otherwise necessary connection to the internet or cloud servers. The 'AI Pro' chip is modeled on the human brain. Its neuromorphic architecture helps it to make calculations on site and therefore cyber-secure. It also consumes up to ten times less energy.

Images

Fraunhofer IPMS has signed a partnership agreement with the TSN Lab to promote the development and dissemination of Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) technology in South Korea.

After extremely strong growth in 2021 and 2022, the electrical and connection technology company Weidmüller recorded a decline in sales for the second year in a row. Compared to the previous year, turnover in 2024 fell by around 11% to EUR 980 million.

The Lapp Group has acquired Cableforce Electronics with effect from June 1, 2025. By merging with the Chinese specialist for circular connectors, Lapp intends to strengthen its global market presence and production capacities for industrial connectors.

Images

Deutsche Messe's Robotics Award is entering a new round: the search is on for innovative, market-ready robotics solutions with potential for the industry. Applications can be submitted until November 1, 2025 - regardless of participation in the trade fair.

Images

The German robotics and automation industry is looking to the current year with concern. Geopolitical uncertainty and growing international competition are causing a reluctance to invest.

Images

The results of the current Automatica Trend Index 2025 show: Global acceptance of robotics and automation in industry is increasing - and with it the awareness that technological innovation is the key to the future of work.

Images

The ROS1 driver for Trinamic motor controllers from Analog Devices enables the seamless integration of intelligent actuators into ROS-supported robot systems. This article describes features, configuration options and application scenarios for robust use in industry and research.

Images

ABB says it has set a new benchmark in the energy efficiency of large synchronous electric motors. A motor developed for a steelworks in India achieved an efficiency of 99.13% in tests, surpassing the previous ABB record of 99.05%.

Images

Despite the growing importance of security policy, the involvement of the electrical and digital industry in the German security and defense industry (SVI) remains limited. This is shown by a recent member survey conducted by the German Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers' Association (ZVEI).

Omron Corporation, headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, and Cognizant have entered into a strategic partnership to drive the integration of information and operational technology (IT and OT) in the industry.

As artificial intelligence is increasingly used in sectors such as healthcare, autonomous driving and smart cities, conventional computer architectures are reaching significant limits in terms of processing speed and energy efficiency. The 'Vitfox' project aims to advance AI through the development of energy-efficient neuromorphic computing systems.

Robotics company German Bionic presents its most advanced exoskeleton model to date, called 'Exia', which is fully controlled by augmented AI.

From 2027, the Digital Product Passport (DPP) will be mandatory in the EU for certain product groups. VDMA is launching the "DPP for Machinery" initiative to support small and medium-sized companies in particular with implementation.

Puls presents the new 480 W DIN rail power supply 'CP20.248-IOL' with IO-Link interface and integrated display for a reliable 24 V power supply.

The 'SCT4xxx' differential current transformer and the 'EL3446-0011' power measurement terminal from Beckhoff combine to enable continuous monitoring and condition-based maintenance, thus saving operators increased costs of fixed, predetermined maintenance intervals.

The Sick Industrial Cybersecurity Test Center (SICST) in Waldkirch has been officially accredited by the German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) for the IEC 62443-4-2 standard. This makes Sick the first and, according to the DAkkS website, currently the only German manufacturer with an accredited test laboratory that can carry out conformity assessments with regard to the IT security of industrial automation systems in accordance with this standard.