A new technical session format
Last week, the Hub hosted a very special technical conference led by Balluff, in which the company decided to break away from the usual format. Instead of organising a single central event, Balluff introduced a travelling format, bringing its BOB – Balluff On Board, demonstration bus directly to the facilities of Hub members. With this approach, innovation reached companies directly, strengthening proximity, adaptability and the personalisation of each demonstration.
The BOB demo bus: a mobile IO-Link demonstrator at the service of Hub members
The BOB demo bus served as a fully equipped demonstration space featuring cutting-edge technologies. Inside, attendees were able to explore solutions related to industrial automation, including IO-Link-based systems, advanced sensors, machine vision, RFID and industrial communication modules. This environment enabled hands-on demonstrations that showed how IO-Link supports efficient parameterisation, advanced diagnostics and device monitoring across packaging processes.
The simplification of cabling through IO-Link has become a key factor in optimising connectivity in industrial environments. This technology reduces installation complexity, minimises errors and facilitates the integration of sensors and actuators into advanced automation systems. With a cleaner and more efficient architecture, member companies can enhance equipment reliability and accelerate their transition towards smarter and more flexible production processes.
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Visits to Hub members: a tour across the companies in the ecosystem
Throughout the week, Balluff visited several member companies of the Barcelona Packaging Hub. Movitec, Effytec, Mengibar, Volpak and TMI hosted the demonstration van at their facilities, allowing the technical session to take place in each company’s real production environment. The presence of technologies such as IO-Link enabled a direct analysis of how digitalisation impacts efficiency, reduces setup times and increases machine availability.
The sessions brought together engineers, technicians, operators and managers from different areas, forming multidisciplinary groups. Each demonstration was tailored to the specific challenges of each plant, encouraging technical exchange and real-time problem solving. This close interaction made it easier to understand how Balluff’s solutions could be seamlessly integrated into production processes.
Results and added value for the Hub’s ecosystem
The travelling format generated a very positive response among Hub members. By bringing automation technologies directly into their facilities, logistical times were reduced and the effectiveness of the demonstrations increased. Companies were able to assess the impact of these solutions first-hand in their real operational context and work directly with Balluff’s specialists.
This initiative reaffirmed the Barcelona Packaging Hub’s commitment to innovation, proximity and technological collaboration among its members. We continue to promote flexible formats that help accelerate the evolution of the packaging sector, supporting member companies as they address their industrial challenges with advanced and reliable tools.
If you would like to learn more about these technologies or speak with industry experts, feel free to contact us.