VAHLE unveils APOS Optic 2.0 for precise optical positioning
A new generation of optical positioning for automation and intralogistics applications: APOS Optic 2.0
Paul Vahle GmbH & Co. KG is introducing APOS Optic 2.0, the new generation of its optical positioning solution. The system provider for mobile industrial applications has specifically further developed the system for modern automation, intralogistics and conveyor technology applications. Revised camera technology with a wider field of view enables position detection using just a single camera. This makes the new read head more compact. At the same time, APOS Optic 2.0 remains backwards compatible with existing APOS Optic systems. VAHLE will be presenting the new generation for the first time at SPS 2026 in Nuremberg.
“With APOS Optic 2.0, we are combining technological advancement with investment security for existing systems,” says Marc Detweiler, Director of Product Management and Marketing at the VAHLE Group. “Users benefit from simpler integration and can modernise their systems in stages without having to replace existing equipment all at once.”
For many years, APOS Optic has been used in a variety of applications for the precise positioning of vehicles, conveyors and automated transport systems. With APOS Optic 2.0, VAHLE is taking the technology to the next level for modern systems.
New camera technology and a more compact design
At the heart of this further development is the camera technology with an enlarged field of view: the system now captures positions using a single camera instead of the previous two. This allows for a significantly slimmer housing for the read head. “The larger field of view provides greater flexibility in the design and positioning of the system. The more compact design also opens up additional possibilities for integration into existing systems,” says Detweiler.
For connection to higher-level automation and control systems, APOS Optic 2.0 supports the RS485, SSI and PROFINET interfaces. A USB diagnostic interface is available for commissioning and diagnostics.
Retrofitting during operation
APOS Optic 2.0 offers additional planning certainty for existing systems. The new generation is backwards-compatible and allows mixed operation with first-generation systems. Users can therefore modernise existing systems in stages without having to completely replace the existing installation.
During the transition phase, the first generation will continue to be available for spare parts requirements and the expansion of existing systems. The switch to APOS Optic 2.0 will take place by 31 December 2028 at the latest. Until then, VAHLE will offer APOS Optic 1.0 at reduced rates. “This enables users to gradually upgrade their existing systems to APOS Optic 2.0 whilst continuing to utilise the existing infrastructure,” explains Detweiler.
Launch at SPS 2026
VAHLE will be presenting APOS Optic 2.0 for the first time at SPS 2026 in Nuremberg. From 24 to 26 November 2026, visitors can find out more about the new positioning solution and its applications at the VAHLE stand in Hall 4, Stand 336.
Personal consultation
Would you like to find out more about VAHLE’s solutions in person or discuss specific questions with our experts? Book your personal appointment at SPS now. We look forward to your visit and would be delighted to invite you to a free trade fair ticket.
