As automation technologies progress, there are more opportunities for machinery to respond directly to input from human operators. This is why a good human-machine interface (HMI) is extremely important.

Optimizing a packaging line is a journey. And there are many variables to consider in the quest. If one machine or component isn’t working, it can wreak havoc on your entire line — with labor costs, downtime and of course finding the root of the issue.

Given that robots boost productivity, profitability and quality, it’s no surprise they are rife. In fact, it is estimated three million industrial robots will be in use globally by 2020, according to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR).

Foodvisor, a new Health Tech app, was created to help people eat smart so that they can feel better and live healthier and better lives. It is a highly advanced AI-powered food diary that provides automatic photo recognition and personalized nutritional coaching.

Today, machinery construction OEMs are facing special challenges: Rapid format changes, versatility, security, flexibility and availability are becoming increasingly important in today’s packaging industry.

Allied Electronics & Automation has signed a distribution agreement with Warner Linear, manufacturer of electromechanical actuators and actuator controls.

Packaging industry veteran Ken Harding joins JLS as Director of Applications Engineering and Special Projects.