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SBF AG, a listed specialist for innovative solutions in the fields of rolling stock, lighting, electromechanics and sensor technology, is further accelerating innovation in its “Sensor Technology and Electromechanics” business segment. With the enhanced Automatic Label Feeder (ALF) and the automatic optical inspection system INSPECT, SBF offers two field-tested product innovations that address the megatrends of automation and digitalization. Both solutions were developed within the company’s own production operations and are now being commercialized as market-ready products for industrial customers with comparable requirements. In doing so, SBF is pursuing an innovation model that combines technological expertise with direct customer benefit while unlocking additional earnings potential.
“We are now even better positioned for the future with these product developments. INSPECT takes quality assurance in electronics manufacturing to a new level of automation. Solutions with high customer value and clear efficiency potential are exactly the kind of innovation with which the SBF Group aims to grow. In electronics manufacturing, traceability and automation are decisive competitive factors. With the Automatic Label Feeder, we’re addressing exactly that need and are continually expanding the technology’s capabilities to include new applications such as the labeling of printed circuit boards, electronic components, and now glass vials as well. This demonstrates the adaptability of our technology and sustainably strengthens our product portfolio,” explains Robert Stöcklinger, Member of the Management Board of SBF AG.
Opening up new target industries through the further development of ALF
The Automatic Label Feeder sets the standard for precise, reliable labeling in industrial manufacturing processes. Originally developed for in-house use in electronics production, ALF has evolved into an independent product line following strong customer demand. With its latest enhancement, SBF is unlocking further growth potential: fully automated labeling of glass vials is now possible, opening up ALF to industries beyond electronics manufacturing, such as pharmaceuticals, laboratory diagnostics and fine chemicals. ALF’s platform architecture allows flexible adaptation to different production processes, thereby creating the basis for further growth.
Automating quality inspection of electronic assemblies
With INSPECT, SBF has reached another milestone in product development. The optical inspection system automates the quality inspection of electronic assemblies after SMD assembly and takes process control in electronics manufacturing to a new level. A high-resolution camera captures the assembled printed circuit board; the software independently identifies fiducial marks, component positions and orientations, reads all standard barcode and 2D code formats, and automatically documents the inspection results. The system can be set up within just a few minutes, while calibration and operating data are fully retained during updates. In addition, stability and robustness in continuous operation have been improved, ensuring that INSPECT continues to operate reliably even in the event of hardware failures.
Technological innovation strength
With these two products, SBF is once again demonstrating its innovative strength. They exemplify the company’s development approach: new technologies initially developed to optimize its own manufacturing processes create additional sales and growth potential once brought to market maturity. In this way, SBF is strengthening its product portfolio, which is specifically geared toward the needs of industrial customers. At the same time, these innovations reinforce the Group’s technological expertise in the megatrends of automation and digitalization. SBF benefits from this across all of its business segments.
