From 5 to 7 May, Fira Barcelona – Gran Via became the European hub of industrial innovation. At STT Systems, we are extremely pleased with our participation alongside STEMMER IMAGING, where we demonstrated how our machine vision solutions are transforming production plants.
The digital transformation of industry is no longer a promise for the future or an abstract concept in a PowerPoint presentation; it is a tangible reality that demands action. At this edition of Advanced Factories 2026, we saw first-hand how companies are rethinking their production models. The aim is no longer to implement technology simply for the sake of innovation, but to find direct solutions to specific problems: reducing costs, minimising human error and optimising overall efficiency.
Throughout these three intense days, our colleagues Iker Urdangarin and Jorge Molina have been on the front line, sharing the stage with our key strategic partner, STEMMER IMAGING. This collaboration has not only allowed us to showcase cutting-edge technology, but also to discuss, question and understand the direction in which the industrial sector is heading.
Beyond the technology exhibition
Advanced Factories has established itself as one of Europe’s leading events in industrial automation, robotics and technologies related to Industry 4.0. Over the years, the event has evolved in a fascinating way. It has moved beyond being a mere showcase for technological innovations to become a forum where strategic decisions, real market trends and, most importantly, the industry’s urgent needs converge.
During the event, we exchanged views with a wide range of professionals:
- Fabrication engineers: Seeking ways to reduce cycle times and avoid bottlenecks.
- Quality managers: Interested in improving quality control through machine vision and deep learning to achieve the goal of zero defects.
- Production directors (COOs): Focused on return on investment (ROI) and the profitability of new implementations.
- IT and OT professionals: Concerned with cybersecurity, systems integration and data analysis in the cloud or in edge computing.
Within this ecosystem, the trade fair serves as a true barometer of the sector. It shows us which technologies are mature, how they are being applied on the shop floor (the production floor), and which barriers to adoption we still need to overcome together.
Joining forces with STEMMER IMAGING
Partnering with STEMMER IMAGING holds profound strategic significance for STT Systems. In today’s industrial landscape, no single company can cover the entire value chain on its own. Strategic alliances are the driving force behind true innovation.
STEMMER IMAGING is an undisputed leader in the provision of machine vision technology at both European and international levels. They provide the most advanced hardware (high-speed cameras, specialised lighting, precision optics) and robust software platforms.
“Nuestra presencia conjunta no busca solo exhibir componentes, sino demostrar cómo la suma de la mejor tecnología base con una integración experta genera un valor incalculable para el cliente final.”
At stand G788, visitors were able to see this synergy in action. Whilst STEMMER IMAGING provides the ‘eyes’ and the ‘brain’, at STT Systems we take care of building the complete ‘nervous system’, adapting it to the specific layout of each factory.
VISIO is a turnkey machine vision solution designed for industrial environments
One of the highlights of our participation at Advanced Factories 2026 was the live demonstration of VISIO, our machine vision-based inspection and control system. Led by Iker Urdangarin and Jorge Molina, dozens of professionals were able to see its effectiveness in real time.
When we talk about turnkey machine vision solutions for industry, we mean a total commitment to the end result. Machine vision is not a product you simply take out of a box and start using. It requires a lighting study, a careful choice of optics, specific algorithmic programming and, finally, its mechanical and software integration (communication with PLCs, robots or ERP/MES databases).
What makes VISIO stand out?
- High-speed defect detection: 100% inspection of production without slowing down the line, detecting micro-cracks, assembly errors or colour variations that the human eye would miss.
- Integration of Deep Learning and Machine Learning: VISIO is no longer a static tool. It learns from new defects and adapts to natural product variations without the need for constant reprogramming. This is vital for optimising industrial processes with machine learning.
- Full traceability: Every inspected part generates a record of data and images. If a customer makes a complaint months later, it is possible to trace exactly how that batch left the factory.
- Mechanical adaptability: We design the structure to integrate with existing conveyor belts, robotic arms or other automated systems without altering the main layout of the factory.
How to integrate machine vision into production processes
During the discussions held at the trade fair, one question kept coming up: “The technology is impressive, but how do I integrate it into my production line without shutting it down for weeks?”
This is the real barrier to entry for many SMEs and large corporations. How to integrate machine vision into production processes is the challenge that STT Systems tackles on a daily basis.
Nuestra respuesta, y lo que hemos transmitido en Advanced Factories, se basa en una metodología muy clara:
- Preliminary on-site audit: No two plants are the same, nor are any two problems identical. Before proposing any technology, we analyse the ambient lighting, the available physical space, machinery vibrations and existing communication protocols (Profinet, EtherCAT, Modbus, etc.).
- Proof of Concept (PoC): We validate the solution in our laboratory using the client’s actual samples before touching a single screw at their site.
- Agile deployment (adapted Plug & Play): We pre-assemble and pre-program most of the system at our facilities. Integration at the plant is carried out during scheduled downtime (weekends or off-peak shifts), minimising the impact on production.
- Training and support: We deliver a complex system that is simple to operate. We train operators and maintenance staff so that they can work independently on a day-to-day basis.
Listen before acting: our working philosophy
We didn’t go to Advanced Factories 2026 just to showcase solutions; we went to understand. We came to grasp how these tools fit into the financial and operational reality of each company, what hidden challenges arise in day-to-day operations, and what real impact they can have on the business in the short and medium term.
For the STT Systems team, attending events of this magnitude goes far beyond simply presenting cutting-edge technology. It is a way of staying close to our clients, listening with clinical attention to what each need requires, and learning from every conversation.
We didn’t arrive at Fira Barcelona with a set sales pitch, but with a willingness to adapt. We know that technology matters, of course, but what really makes the difference is how we apply it to solve real problems, using technical expertise and a keen eye for detail.
The real impact on business: Manufacturing better, not just more
This whole technological mix is driving a structural paradigm shift in the way companies understand production. It is no longer about the race to produce more at any cost. The current goal is to manufacture better: with greater flexibility to change formats, lower costs due to quality rejections, and the ability to adapt extremely quickly to market demands.
Industry data overwhelmingly reinforces this trend. According to various studies presented during the conference, the implementation of digital and Industry 4.0 technologies can increase industrial productivity by around 10% to 15% in the early stages of digital maturity.
Beyond the macroeconomic figures, the real added value lies in the return on investment at the machine level. A VISIO system that prevents a defective batch from reaching the end customer (and causing a product recall, financial penalties and reputational damage) pays for itself, quite literally, with its very first ‘success’.
Innovation continues beyond the exhibition halls
Ultimately, Advanced Factories 2026 has been much more than just a trade fair. It has been a space where industrial innovation has been showcased in all its glory, discussed with technical rigour and put to the test. A place where the theory of big data intersects with the reality of dirty, noisy factory environments, and where technological trends begin to translate into strategic purchasing decisions.
We are extremely grateful to our partner STEMMER IMAGING for their trust and teamwork, and to Iker and Jorge for their dedication over the past few days in representing the values of STT Systems.
The event has closed its doors, but the real work begins now. Every contact, every business card exchanged and every problem you raised with us at stand G788 is now the start of a new project.
Because ultimately, beyond the code, the algorithms and the hardware, what truly brings lasting value to the industry are honest conversations and long-term partnerships.
Take the next step towards Industry 4.0 with STT Systems
If you were unable to attend Advanced Factories 2026 or if, after visiting us, you would like to explore further how our technologies can be applied to your specific situation, we are here to listen.
Whether your goal is to reduce false rejects in your quality control, automate the traceability of your products, or integrate a complex vision system into a confined space, at STT Systems we design turnkey machine vision solutions that deliver value from the very first minute.
Shall we discuss the challenges facing your plant?
Tell us about your inspection or quality control issue and our technical team will assess the feasibility of an automated solution. Request a demo.