ABB’s Machine Automation division will showcase new automation solutions based on B&R technology at interpack 2026. The solutions are designed to help manufacturers adapt existing packaging lines more quickly and efficiently in response to growing demands from more product variants, tighter timelines and shorter product lifecycles.

Transport systems beyond mechanics

B&R expanded its planar transport system with Acopos 6D hybrid, complemented by a new software tool, Acopos 6D LaunchPad, for simulation-based engineering and configuration. The hybrid concept combines magnetically levitated Acopos 6D shuttles for high-value process steps with conventional transport systems – such as conveyors, robots or other manipulators – for less critical tasks, all coordinated within a single control architecture.

Acopos 6D LaunchPad enables machine layouts, shuttle flows and process sequences to be designed, simulated and optimized virtually before hardware is installed. According to the company, this allows manufacturers to validate performance, reduce commissioning time and scale systems incrementally as requirements evolve. Once hardware is available, the virtual setup can be transferred directly to real hardware via a ‘Configure and Run’ approach, said to reduce engineering effort, late-stage changes and time-to-market.

Integrated color vision for packaging

The new B&R color camera supports vision-based process corrections at production speeds of up to 500 m/min. Integrated into the machine control loop, the solution is said to support first-time-right printing, reduce material waste and increase overall equipment effectiveness. The company stated it is designed for packaging and printing applications – such as labeling – that involve frequent design changes and challenging materials, including glossy, transparent and multi-colored substrates.

The color camera uses adaptive algorithms, including auto-exposure, to adjust to changing conditions without manual intervention, according to B&R. Unlike standalone vision systems, the solution integrates vision, motion and control on a single deterministic platform, enabling real-time, in-cycle corrections with microsecond-level synchronization. A unified hardware and software platform supports both monochrome and color applications within a single engineering environment.

“Our innovations here at interpack highlight that we aim to enable the packaging industry to respond to the most pressing challenges: fast turnovers, constantly new variants, and an overall maximized productivity – so packaging can get personal,” said Lazaros Patsakas, global industry segment manager CPG at B&R. “These challenges can only be solved with intelligent, future-ready automation.”