en.Wedoany.com Reported - Festo showcased multiple technology solutions addressing automation deployment and integration challenges at the Automate 2026 trade show. The event took place from June 22 to 25, 2026, at McCormick Place in Chicago, with Festo at booth 831.
Addressing demands such as reduced control cabinet space and distributed I/O devices, Festo demonstrated the latest features of its next-generation VTUX valve terminal platform. With an IP67 protection rating, this platform integrates pneumatic control, vacuum generation, and I/O into a lightweight, modular unit that can be installed directly near the application. The platform reduces tubing length, control cabinet size, installation effort, and the number of standalone automation components. Integrated vacuum monitoring enhances fault visibility and helps reduce compressed air consumption. The VTUX platform is well-suited for end-of-arm tooling, for which Festo introduced the new CTED multi-protocol interface. It supports industrial Ethernet protocols such as EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP, PROFIBUS, and CC-Link, simplifying integration across diverse control environments.
In the area of end-of-arm gripping systems, Festo showcased adaptive gripping and vacuum technologies aimed at improving handling reliability and end-of-arm integration efficiency in high-mix production environments. The demonstrations included vacuum generators, suction cups, and the new HPSX hygienic soft gripper suitable for both traditional and collaborative automation settings. This gripper features food-safe silicone fingers capable of handling fragile and irregularly shaped products without requiring tool changes, making it ideal for food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications.
In response to the trend toward electric automation, Festo introduced the Simplified Motion Series (SMS) electric actuators. This series integrates the motor and drive into an all-in-one motion package, enabling on-device commissioning without the need for dedicated software. Optional configurations include toothed belt axes, spindle axes, miniature slides, electric cylinders, and rotary drives. Supporting digital I/O and IO-Link connectivity, it allows remote parameterization, backup functions, and process monitoring, reducing commissioning effort and engineering costs.
Festo also demonstrated engineering tools that compress component selection, compatibility verification, accessory selection, documentation generation, and ordering processes from hours to minutes. Engineers can configure multi-axis handling systems, size electric and pneumatic motion components, access CAD models, generate quotes, and retain project configurations for subsequent modifications, expansions, or reorders within a connected engineering environment, reducing system deployment risks.
In workforce development, Festo Didactic offers hands-on mechatronics and industrial automation training tailored for manufacturers, OEMs, and technical education programs. The MPS 400 learning system on the booth is a modular Industry 4.0 learning factory providing experiential training in automation technology, intelligent machine networking, IO-Link connectivity, and modern mechatronic workflows.
During the show, Festo experts also participated in several educational sessions. Ted Rozier moderated a panel discussion on robot safety, risk assessment, and responsible AI in education and training on Tuesday, June 23, from 11:15 AM to 12:00 PM in North Hall N427abc. Frank Langro presented on selecting the most suitable motion control components and systems on Wednesday, June 24, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM in South Hall S404bc. Carlos Alfaro Flores participated in a panel discussion on entering, standing out, and shaping the future of automation on Wednesday, June 24, at 3:00 PM at the NextGen Theater.
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