SBF AG, a listed specialist for innovative solutions in rolling stock, lighting, electromechanics, and sensor technology, is accelerating innovation in its “Sensor Technology and Electromechanics” business segment. The company has introduced two field-tested product innovations: the enhanced Automatic Label Feeder (ALF) and the automatic optical inspection system INSPECT. Both solutions address the megatrends of automation and digitalization, having been developed within the company’s own production operations and now commercialized as market-ready products for industrial customers with comparable requirements.
Robert Stocklinger, Member of the Management Board of SBF AG, highlighted the strategic importance of these developments: “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.”
The Automatic Label Feeder sets a standard for precise, reliable labeling in industrial manufacturing processes. Originally developed for in-house use in electronics production, ALF evolved into an independent product line following strong customer demand. With its latest enhancement, SBF is unlocking further growth potential by enabling fully automated labeling of glass vials, opening up industries beyond electronics manufacturing such as pharmaceuticals, laboratory diagnostics, and fine chemicals. The platform architecture of ALF allows flexible adaptation to different production processes, creating the basis for further growth.
INSPECT marks another milestone in product development, automating the quality inspection of electronic assemblies after SMD assembly. The optical inspection system uses a high-resolution camera to capture the assembled printed circuit board, with software that independently identifies fiducial marks, component positions, and orientations, reads all standard barcode and 2D code formats, and automatically documents inspection results. The system can be set up in minutes, and calibration and operating data are fully retained during updates. Stability and robustness in continuous operation have been improved, ensuring reliable performance even in the event of hardware failures.
These two products demonstrate SBF’s innovative strength and its development approach: technologies initially created to optimize internal manufacturing processes are now generating additional sales and growth potential once brought to market maturity. This strategy strengthens SBF’s product portfolio, which is specifically geared toward the needs of industrial customers, and reinforces the Group’s technological expertise in the megatrends of automation and digitalization, benefiting all business segments.
For more information about SBF AG and its products, visit https://www.sbf-ag.com.
