Schmalkalden, June 2025 – After two years of successful collaboration, it is now official: Acubez Modular Automation Ltd. has become a member of GFE – Gesellschaft für Fertigungstechnik und Entwicklung Schmalkalden e.V..

As part of the initial collaboration, an Acubez system was successfully integrated into GFE’s research and production environment. The focus was on solution-driven industrial applications of automation and digitalization – specifically tailored to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Now, the partnership is being taken to the next level: Acubez has joined the GFE network as a member and is making its modular platform available to support the strategic development of GFE’s new real-world demonstration factory, the “Center for Digital Production.”

Modularity as the Key to the Smart Factory for SMEs

The standardized modular automation platform from Acubez offers a comprehensive technological response to the demands of modern production environments — across mechanical, electronic, sensor, and software layers.

• Plug-and-play modules (e.g. ControlCube, LiftCube, StorageCube, PalletCube)
• Intuitive user interface configurable without programming knowledge
• Scalable and compact design for small series and high product variety
• Seamless integration of automation with both new and existing machine parks
• Future-proof through flexible expandability and high adaptability

Multi-Year Roadmap Toward the Reference Factory – “Center for Digital Production”

With this milestone, the next phase begins: Acubez and GFE are working together on the step-by-step implementation of a future-oriented Smart Factory for SMEs. The goal is to build a demo and reference factory that serves as a practical, real-world, value-generating example of scalable and affordable digitalization for the manufacturing sector.

This development will take place over the coming years in three stages:

• Level 1: Integration of modular automation solutions (first step already completed)
• Level 2: Networking of multiple Acubez systems within GFE’s production environment
• Level 3: Full digital integration into production control systems

Synergy Between Industry and Technological Development

Acubez’s membership in GFE brings not only technological innovation but also international market experience into the network — especially in the implementation of flexible, compact automation in industrial environments.

For GFE, this partnership provides access to an innovative platform that integrates seamlessly into research projects, pilot applications, and vocational training for regional businesses.

Invitation to Collaborate

We warmly invite SMEs interested in future-proof modular automation and in advancing employee training in this field to join us — alongside GFE and Acubez — in taking the step-by-step journey toward the Smart Factory.

Schedule a video call to get to know us and jointly define the next steps for your company.
More information available at:
www.gfe-net.de
www.acubez.com

About Acubez

Acubez is a leading provider of modular automation solutions for machine tending and CNC manufacturing processes. With its unique plug-and-play platform, Acubez offers scalable, flexible, and easily integrable solutions tailored specifically to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises.

About GFE Schmalkalden e.V.

GFE – Gesellschaft für Fertigungstechnik und Entwicklung Schmalkalden e.V. is an industry-oriented research institute focused on production engineering, tooling development, and quality assurance. With a strong network of regional and international partners, GFE supports companies in innovation, production, and workforce qualification, and serves as a trusted technology transfer partner between science and industry.