Festo will highlight automation technologies and initiatives focused on deployment and integration challenges at Automate 2026, scheduled for June 22–25 at McCormick Place in Chicago. At Booth #831, the company will feature motion control, handling systems, connectivity, engineering tools, and workforce development technologies intended to help manufacturers improve startup visibility, reduce integration effort, and respond to changing production requirements.
As automation projects place added demands on OEMs and system integrators, machine designs are incorporating more devices, networks, and production flexibility. At the same time, shorter startup timelines and limited technical resources are increasing the need for solutions that reduce troubleshooting, improve interoperability, and support more efficient project execution.
VTUX terminal and CTED interface
As manufacturers work to reduce cabinet complexity and move I/O closer to the application, Festo will present new functional additions to its VTUX valve terminal platform.
The IP67-rated VTUX combines pneumatic control, vacuum generation, and I/O in a modular platform that can be mounted near the application. This design can reduce tubing runs, cabinet space requirements, installation effort, and the number of separate automation components on the machine. Integrated vacuum monitoring provides additional visibility for troubleshooting and can help reduce compressed air consumption. The VTUX is also suited for end-of-arm tooling applications because of its compact and lightweight design.
Festo will also introduce the CTED multi-protocol interface for VTUX. The interface supports direct connection to Industrial Ethernet networks including EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus TCP, PROFIBUS, and CC-Link. The CTED module is intended to simplify machine integration across different control environments and reduce dependence on a single network standard.
HPSX adaptive gripper
End-of-arm gripping systems are an important part of robotic performance, especially in high-mix production environments where manufacturers need flexibility and faster changeovers.
Festo will display adaptive gripping and vacuum technologies intended to improve handling reliability and simplify end-of-arm integration. These include vacuum generators, suction cups, and the HPSX adaptive gripper for both traditional and collaborative automation environments. The HPSX is a hygienic soft gripper that uses food-safe silicone fingers to handle delicate and irregularly shaped products without tool changes. It is intended for use in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications.
Simplified Motion Series electric actuators
As more manufacturers adopt electric automation, machine builders are seeking motion systems that are easier to commission, less complex to deploy, and more cost-effective.
Festo’s Simplified Motion Series (SMS) electric actuators were developed to bring some of the simplicity associated with pneumatic motion to electric automation applications. SMS combines the motor and drive in a single integrated motion package that can be commissioned directly on the device without specialized software.
Available configurations include toothed belt axes, spindle axes, mini slides, electric cylinders, and rotary drives. SMS actuators support digital I/O and IO-Link connectivity, allowing remote parameterization, backup functions, and process monitoring while helping reduce commissioning effort and engineering workload.
Festo engineering tools
Engineering time is often consumed before a machine is commissioned, as designers work through component sizing, compatibility checks, accessory selection, documentation, and ordering across multiple systems.
At Automate 2026, Festo will demonstrate engineering tools intended to reduce the time required for these workflows. Engineers can configure multi-axis handling systems, size electric and pneumatic motion components, access CAD models, verify compatible accessories, generate quotations, and streamline ordering within a connected engineering environment.
These engineering tools are also intended to reduce deployment risk by helping ensure that selected components and accessories are interoperable before systems are built or commissioned. They also allow project configurations to be saved for future modification, expansion, or reorder.
Festo Didactic learning systems
Modern automation systems also depend on technicians who can support increasingly sophisticated equipment in the field.
Festo Didactic supports workforce development through hands-on mechatronics and industrial automation training for manufacturers, OEMs, and technical education programs. Demonstrations at the booth will include the MPS 400 learning system, a modular Industry 4.0 learning factory that provides training in automation technology, intelligent machine networking, IO-Link connectivity, and mechatronics workflows used in advanced manufacturing environments.
Education sessions
In addition to its booth exhibits, Festo personnel will participate in several educational sessions during Automate 2026 focused on motion control selection, workforce development, robotic safety, and AI in automation.
Ted Rozier will moderate the panel discussion Robotic Safety, Risk Assessment and Responsible AI in Education and Training on Tuesday, June 23, from 11:15 AM to 12:00 PM in Room N427abc, North Hall.
Frank Langro will present Choosing the Best Fit Motion Control Components and Systems on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Room S404bc.
Carlos Alfaro Flores will participate in the panel discussion Breaking In, Standing Out, and Shaping the Future of Automation on Wednesday, June 24, at 3:00 PM in the NextGen Theatre.
Engineers, OEMs, integrators, educators, and manufacturers attending Automate 2026 can meet with Festo application specialists at Booth #831 to discuss automation projects involving motion control, handling, connectivity, engineering support, and workforce development.
Festo
www.festo.com
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