How can machines from different manufacturers be connected seamlessly? The “Connected Machines” special area in hall 15 at glasstec 2026 organised by VDMA will show in practical terms how standardised interfaces, interoperability and shared data models can drive the glass industry forward.
At a glance
Date + Time: 20-23 October 2026 daily: 09:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Digital connectivity is a key prerequisite for efficient and future-proof production processes. Connected Machines demonstrates how machines and systems from different manufacturers can communicate with one another via standardised interfaces.
This special exhibition area showcases concrete solutions for the digital transformation of glass production and allows visitors to experience interoperability first-hand. The focus is on open standards, shared data models and the exchange of information across different manufacturers.
Experience machine connectivity first-hand
Discover practical applications, demonstrators and the latest solutions for fully networked production – and find out how open standards simplify machine integration and safeguard your investment in the long term.
Understanding interoperability
Find out how machines from different manufacturers can communicate with one another. Eight presentation points provide insights into the latest developments, specifications and solutions for machine connectivity in the glass industry.
Experience standards in action
See open standards in practical use. A key focus is OPC UA FX for networking components at field level. The OPC Foundation showcases a multi-vendor interoperability demo wall with components from various automation companies.
Advancing digitalisation in practice
A demonstrator with modules from different manufacturers shows the benefits of standardised data models. Components can be exchanged while information remains consistent, simplifying integration and supporting future-proof production.
Eight presentation points for connected manufacturing
At eight presentation points, visitors can gain insights into the latest developments in machine connectivity. Among other things, the exhibition will showcase specifications and job target definitions for flat and container glass, enterprise solutions, and VDMA initiatives on interoperability, energy management and the Companion Specification.
Open standards for a connected glass industry
„With Connected Machines, we are showing how the glass industry can benefit from open standards and interoperable solutions. Visitors will experience concrete applications and gain guidance for their own digitalisation projects.“ – Gesine Bergmann, Head of VDMA Forum Glass Technology.
Dates
Date + Time:
Wednesday, 21. October 2026 | 5:00 p.m. –6:00 p.m.
Thursday, 22. October 2026 | 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Hall 15, Stand C28
Get-together: Meet the experts
Take the opportunity to engage directly with experts in data connectivity. Using exhibits and demonstrators, discover the benefits of manufacturer-independent networking for efficient production processes.
In Hall 15, see for yourself how standardised interfaces, shared data models and cross-manufacturer networking work in practice. Meet experts from the fields of mechanical engineering, automation and standardisation, and take away practical ideas for your own digitalisation projects.
