Interpack 2026 Countdown: Redefining Packaging Automation with Festo

Date: May 7 - 13, 2026
Location: Messe Düsseldorf, Germany | Hall 6, Stand 6A10

The "Capability Compression Model": Introducing the Polar Robot

At the heart of our exhibition is the Polar Robot, a system designed to demonstrate the convergence of Festo’s core competencies: Motion, Gripping, and System Integration.

This "capability compression model" illustrates how we optimize packaging processes through a harmonious blend of technologies:

• Motion: Powered by the ELGD electric cylinder, ensuring structural rigidity and trajectory stability at high speeds, regardless of mounting orientation (inverted, side, or angled).
• Gripping: Utilizing end-effector solutions like the HPSX for synchronized, multi-point gripping to ensure absolute consistency.
• Logic: A strategic division of labor where electric drives handle precision and path control, while pneumatics manage force and structural efficiency.

Real-World Impact: Three Proven Use Cases

We don't just demonstrate technology; we solve specific industry pain points. Here are three examples of how Festo solutions are currently transforming production lines:

1. ELGD Electric Drive: Stable Supply of Heavy-Duty Cartons

• The Challenge: Pushing 65kg heavy cartons resulted in instability and swaying. Existing screw-drive solutions struggled to meet strict cycle time requirements.
• The Festo Solution: An integrated system featuring the ELGD electric cylinder, EMMT servo motor, and CMMT-AS drive.
• The Result:
• Higher Thrust & Speed: Superior performance compared to standard specifications.
• Intelligent Control: Lateral forces are incorporated into the control loop, synchronizing thrust and trajectory to handle off-center loads effortlessly.
• Safety: Integrated S3 safety functions prevent uncontrolled movement during power loss and ensure zero slippage when stopped.

2. VTUX Valve Terminal: Revolutionizing Battery Packaging Wiring

• The Challenge: Robotic arms equipped with multiple grippers suffered from complex, heavy cable harnesses, leading to maintenance difficulties and reduced agility.
• The Festo Solution: Implementation of the VTUX valve terminal with IO-Link communication.
• The Result:
• Simplified Architecture: A single cable carries both power and signals, drastically reducing wiring complexity.
• Weight Reduction: A cleaner arm structure improves responsiveness and synchronization.
• Standardization: This solution has been successfully adopted into the customer's standard drawings for all new equipment.

3. Festo AX: Predictive Maintenance for Coffee Boxing

• The Challenge: A 16-station line suffered from uneven workloads. Scheduled maintenance led to waste, while unexpected failures caused costly production stoppages.
• The Festo Solution: Deployment of Festo AX (Predictive Maintenance).
• The Result:
• State Awareness: Real-time data reading of cylinder movements detects minute delays before they become failures.
• Condition-Based Decisions: Transitioning from "scheduled replacement" to "state-driven maintenance."
• Zero Downtime: Eliminating unexpected failures and optimizing maintenance windows.

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