New award to highlight and reward outstanding machine technology and celebrate creativity and innovation within the packaging industry

Rockwell Automation is to launch a new global award at interpack 2017 that will recognise and reward engineering innovation and machine design – especially in terms of addressing the future needs of this very demanding industry.

With major worldwide end users on the judging panel, it will also be a superb opportunity for machine builders to showcase and discuss their technology in front of some of the industry’s most influential companies.

Any company with a machine at the 2017 show that deploys Rockwell Automation products or solutions can enter and be in with a chance of winning. A number of sub categories has been established that define the eligibility to enter. These are:

  • MODULAR MACHINES – Flexible, Pack Styles, Materials
  • SMART MACHINES – Safety, Integration, Information, Real Time Diagnostic, Operating Efficiency and Data Tracking
  • EASE of USE – Intuitive HMI, Simple Troubleshooting, Easy Changeover
  • SUSTAINABILITY – Reduced Waste Material, Energy Efficiency
  • TRACEABILITY and PRODUCT SAFETY – Product Safety, Serialisation, Sanitary Design, Product Tracking

According to Urs Marti, Director, Industries – EMEA at Rockwell Automation: “Interpack is the perfect event for showcasing innovation. As well as addressing the needs of one of the most demanding markets on the planet, many exhibitors use the show to launch their latest innovations and machines. Speaking as a major supplier to machine builders in this market, we are always hugely impressed with the level of technological advancement we see at every event and we felt that it was time to recognise these achievements with an award specifically for innovation. The award also fits perfectly with the back-up and programmes we offer machine builders at interpack, in terms of co-marketing, product availability and on-site technical show support. If 2014 is anything to go by, we know we are going to have a tough job picking a winner. In 2014 there were 220 machines equipped with Rockwell Automation products and solutions and in 2017, we anticipate this number will nearly double. All of these machine are eligible for entry.”

Nominations for the ‘Best Future Machine Award’ need to be submitted by 31st October 2016 and the finalists will be shortlisted by the end of December 2016. A prestigious panel representing leading global end users and a number of in-country industry associations will judge the winners in each of the categories. An overall winner will then be selected. Winners will be announced at the Rockwell Automation VIP Evening and will be featured in all promotional activities after the show.

http://www.rockwellautomation.com/en_UK/events/interpack/overview.page