Ahead of unveiling SEW-EURODRIVE's latest automated systems and new technology at this year’s PPMA Total Show, we sat down with Jonas Schmitt, Solution Manager for Machine Automation based at the Corporate Solution Center in Germany, to get the lowdown on the trends influencing factories of future.

Read on to learn about his predictions, and why he thinks sustainability and digitalisation will be driving the industry forward.

So... what does a Solution Manager of Machine Automation do?

"I develop and implement complete machine solution packages, such as our 'StarterSET', which is an end-to-end automation packaging solution. As the technical link between sales, marketing, and service, I support every step of the development and implementation process, and gather and analyse market and customer requirements to create tailored concepts and solutions.”

You’ve worked at SEW-EURODRIVE since 2020, first working alongside your university studies in mechanical engineering – what have you learnt over the past five years?

"Practical, hands-on experience is so valuable. It’s one thing learning complex technical concepts in a classroom, but close interaction with customers and applications is essential for developing effective solutions.

“On a personal level, I realised that the best results often come when you step into unfamiliar territory, take calculated risks, and have the courage to learn from mistakes."

How have your bachelor’s and master’s degrees - both in mechanical engineering - shaped the way you work?

"They’ve both brought structure to my day, sharpening my skills in analytical thinking and systematic problem-solving, and therefore enabling me to technically evaluate and develop automation solutions.

“My biggest takeaway from my studies: automation only works through the seamless integration of mechanics and electronics - that’s exactly what I find most fascinating.”

SEW-EURODRIVE is known across the world for its innovation, but you must have a favourite project?

Without a doubt, the development of the compact Flowpack R with Hugo Beck - our sustainable paper packaging machine - stands out. It’s a prime example of successful collaboration between two family-owned companies.

"I learnt so much from the project: how the machinery operates, the unique challenges of working with paper as a packaging material, and how packaging machinery design is evolving."

And how is packaging machinery evolving? What makes the Flowpack R so unique?

"Sustainability is becoming a bigger and bigger priority for customers across the globe, and we’re seeing this across all machinery equipment developed.

“With the Flowpack R, we created a solution that was both economical and sustainable – achieved by combining streamlined hardware with intelligent software. We replaced the energy-draining compressed air system with energy-efficient stepper motors, and with the use of paper over plastic foil too, this goes a long way in reducing the carbon footprint of packaging.

“We also developed and tested the machinery using a digital twin, showing the value of seamless integration between the digital and real world in optimising the design process. Ultimately, this saves time and costs for the customer too, which is always rewarding to see.”

You note sustainability and decarbonisation is a big priority – how will it impact automation in the coming years?

"Automation is evolving rapidly every day, especially in response to new standards and regulations, such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which highlights the increasing importance of sustainable practices.

“Software plays a central role here - whether through virtual commissioning and process optimisation via digital twins, digital solutions for process monitoring, predictive maintenance, or advanced sensor technology.

“The key to business success, and ultimately reaching net-zero goals, lies in comprehensive automation solutions rather than individual hardware components''

What’s the impact of emerging technologies and software on the future of automation?

“AI, machine learning, and IT/OT, is transforming how machines communicate and make decisions autonomously. This helps us to work smarter, not harder, vastly improving efficiency and decision-making.

“While embracing these developments is key to the future of manufacturing, it’s important for companies to stay on top of evolving regulations around cybersecurity and data privacy, to ensure automated systems stay safe and compliant.”

How are these trends, in both sustainability and new technology, being reflected in customer requests?

"We hear customers asking for three main things: flexibility, reliability, and ease of integration. They want automation solutions that can quickly adapt to changing production demands and accommodate different product variants.

“Whether customers want to reduce downtime via predictive maintenance, or respond to supply chain disruption at the click of a button, software that offers seamless integration with existing systems and user-friendly interfaces is the biggest desire.”

You’ve had a big year so far. What’s next for you at SEW-EURODRIVE?

My primary aim is to further strengthen our position as a solutions provider by continuing to develop innovative, customer-focused machine automation packages. I want to deepen collaboration with customers and internal teams to help us deliver more tailored solutions, and I want to enhance the integration of digital tools like virtual commissioning and predictive maintenance to optimise processes further.

“Providing excellent service and support remains a top priority for SEW-EURODRIVE, ensuring that our customers can rely on us for fast, effective solutions whenever challenges arise."

Interested in an in-depth conversation with Jonas about tackling the introduction of automated process in your factory, or a personal demo of our equipment? Drop a line to liam.taylor@sew-eurodrive.co.uk with your availability, and we’ll find a time that works.